The study found that the Butler-Volmer equation, commonly used to describe reaction rates in battery and fuel cell electrodes, is inaccurate, especially at higher voltages. Instead, a different theory called Marcus-Hush-Chidsey charge-transfer theory provides more realistic results, revealing that the limiting step of these reactions is not what was previously thought. The findings could help engineers design better electrodes to improve charging and discharging rates of batteries and provide a better understanding of other electrochemical processes like corrosion control. Previous work had assumed diffusion of lithium ions into the electrode was performance-limiting, but the new analysis shows the critical interface is between the electrode and a carbon coating used to enhance performance.