Structural improvements to reduce the self-discharge rate of Bluetooth headset button batteries require coordinated optimization across multiple dimensions, including material selection, packaging technology, internal structure design, and manufacturing process control. The key focus is reducing the risk of micro-shorts within the battery, inhibiting electrolyte decomposition, and improving sealing, thereby reducing power loss caused by internal chemical reactions.
In terms of material selection, the compatibility of the positive and negative electrode materials with the electrolyte is crucial. Traditional Bluetooth headset button batteries often use zinc-manganese or silver oxide systems. However, zinc-manganese batteries are prone to micro-shorts caused by zinc dendrite growth piercing the separator, while silver oxide batteries suffer from slow reaction between the electrolyte and the silver electrode. Modern Bluetooth headset button batteries are increasingly shifting to lithium-manganese or lithium-iron-phosphate systems. Lithium-manganese batteries optimize the crystal structure of lithium manganese oxide to reduce electrolyte corrosion on the positive electrode at high temperatures. Lithium-iron-phosphate batteries, with their stable olivine structure, effectively inhibit structural collapse during lithium-ion insertion and extraction, thereby reducing self-discharge rates. For the electrolyte, a combination of high-purity organic solvents and lithium salts is used to reduce side reactions caused by impurities. Some high-end products also add film-forming additives to form a dense protective film on the electrode surface, further isolating the electrolyte from direct contact with the electrodes.
Improving the packaging process is crucial to reducing self-discharge. Traditional Bluetooth headset button batteries often use plastic seals or riveted structures. After long-term use, these seals are prone to failure due to material aging or mechanical stress. Moisture intrusion accelerates electrolyte decomposition and triggers self-discharge. Modern Bluetooth headset button batteries commonly use laser welding or glass-to-metal sealing technologies. Laser welding uses a high-energy laser beam to melt the metal casing and cover, creating a seamless metal connection that completely eliminates moisture penetration. Glass-to-metal sealing utilizes the fluidity of glass at high temperatures to form an insulating and airtight glass layer between the metal casing and electrode pins, offering far superior sealing performance compared to traditional processes. Furthermore, some products incorporate a desiccant within the packaging layer to absorb residual moisture, further extending the battery's shelf life.
The internal structural design must balance energy density and self-discharge control. Traditional Bluetooth headset button batteries have low internal space utilization, resulting in excess gaps between the electrodes and the separator, which can easily lead to uneven electrolyte distribution and localized excess electrolyte concentrations, accelerating side reactions. Modern designs optimize the winding or lamination process to ensure a tight fit between the electrodes and the separator, reducing free electrolyte space. Ultra-thin separators are also used to reduce internal resistance and self-discharge losses while maintaining insulation performance. For example, the wound structure precisely controls the tension between the electrodes and the separator to ensure a tight, secure core, while the laminated structure uses inter-layer positioning to prevent micro-shorts caused by electrode misalignment. Some high-end products also incorporate gas absorbers within the battery to promptly neutralize trace gases produced by electrolyte decomposition and prevent pressure buildup that could lead to seal failure.
Manufacturing process control is key to ensuring a stable self-discharge rate. Dust or metal particles from the production environment can enter the battery and cause micro-shorts. Therefore, modern production lines require clean rooms and high-precision filtration systems to ensure that processes such as electrode coating, winding/lamination, and electrolyte injection are carried out in a clean environment. In addition, online testing technology, which monitors battery voltage, internal resistance, and other parameters in real time, allows for the timely removal of abnormally self-discharging batteries, preventing defective products from entering the market. For example, X-ray inspection of the winding core's internal structure can reveal defects such as electrode misalignment or diaphragm damage. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy can assess the extent of internal side reactions in the battery, indirectly reflecting the risk of self-discharge.
Through iterations of material systems, upgrades to packaging processes, optimization of internal structures, and refined control of the manufacturing process, the self-discharge rate of Bluetooth headset button batteries has been significantly reduced. These improvements not only extend the battery's shelf life but also enhance the overall user experience of Bluetooth headsets, allowing users to enjoy long-lasting, stable audio without frequent charging.