Now that they know why, scientists can build better lithium-metal batteries to eventually produce more electric vehicles.
The researchers combined an electric probe and an electrolyte to create a miniature battery in an attempt to understand why lithium burrowed into certain areas and caused a short circuit. When resting, the lithium anode performed as designed, but any indenting, bending, or twisting (along with specks of dust gathered during the manufacturing process) increased the chances of failure.
For more, check out this Popular Mechanics story.