TECHNOLOGY
A team of US-South Korean scientists has developed a groundbreaking technology to dramatically improve lithium-sulphur batteries — achieving rapid charging in as little as 12 minutes — together with long-term stability, retaining 82% capacity after 1,000 recharges.
Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), which power electric vehicles among other devices, face challenges due to their limited energy storage capacity and high production costs.
In contrast, lithium-sulphur batteries have emerged as a promising alternative, offering higher energy density and benefiting from the affordability of sulphur as a key material. However, their commercial viability has been hampered by inefficient sulphur utilisation during rapid charging, leading to reduced battery capacity.
This new technology successfully maintains high energy capacity even under rapid charging conditions.
Team leader, Professor Jong-sung Yu from Daegu Gyeongbuk Institute of Science and Technology in South Korea notes, “This research focused on improving the charging speed of lithium–sulphur batteries using a simple synthesis method involving magnesium. We hope this study will accelerate the commercialisation of lithium-sulphur batteries.”
STILL ON LITHIUM BATTERIES
Scientists develop a safer, stronger, smarter quasi-solid battery
A team of Japanese researchers have developed a quasi-solid-state lithium-ion battery that offers enhanced stability, safety, and a longer lifespan.
While lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are the primary energy source for many electronic devices and electric vehicles, meeting safety standards is becoming increasingly challenging as market demand grows. This is where solid-state batteries can offer a safer alternative by eliminating flammable liquid electrolytes.
Ryosuke Kido from Doshisha University and TDK Corporation, the main author of the study, says, “The flame-retardant quasi-solid-state battery we developed, combining a liquid electrolyte and a solid electrolyte, provides a safer and more durable alternative to all-solid-state batteries with high energy density.”
The researchers say the battery demonstrates high charge/discharge capacity with good recharge performance and little change in the internal resistance. As well, there was better thermal stability and the heat generation associated with the side reaction was very low even in the high-temperature range of around 150°C.
Overall, this LIB could see more efficient and safer next-gen electric vehicles and cordless appliances such as drones that balance safety, efficiency, environmental impact and user convenience.
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