Hybrid membrane edges flow batteries toward grid-scale energy storage

Redox flow batteries hold great promise when it comes to grid-scale storage of renewable energy, because they can hold vast amounts of it in huge tanks at relatively low cost. Regulating the flow of energy in between these reservoirs sits a membrane, a… Continue reading Hybrid membrane edges flow batteries toward grid-scale energy storage

Electrochemical pulses address weakness in next-gen lithium metal batteries

Two promising avenues in the development of next-energy storage involve the use of high-density lithium metal and an electrolyte that is solid rather than liquid, and a new study brings these branches of battery research together in an exciting new bre… Continue reading Electrochemical pulses address weakness in next-gen lithium metal batteries

Second-life EV batteries find use in railway crossings

Eventually the battery packs at the heart of electric cars are going to reach the end of their useful lives, but their story doesn’t necessarily end there. They can still retain enough charge for other applications, such as energy storage, boating and … Continue reading Second-life EV batteries find use in railway crossings

Next-gen battery electrolyte made from wood offers record conductivity

Today’s lithium batteries commonly use a liquid electrolyte to carry ions between the two electrodes, but scientists eyeing solid alternatives see some exciting opportunities ahead. Among them are the authors of a new study who have used cellulose deri… Continue reading Next-gen battery electrolyte made from wood offers record conductivity

Next-gen range-boosting EV battery cathodes test mettle in race car

Better batteries are the key to more practical, universally embraced electric vehicles, and better cathode chemistry is a one of the key elements in creating better batteries. The race for a better cathode has everyone from national laboratories to Nob… Continue reading Next-gen range-boosting EV battery cathodes test mettle in race car

Perfect pressure boosts high-density lithium metal battery performance

Lithium metal batteries are one of the more promising alternatives to the lithium-ion architecture commonly used today, with the potential to hold many times the energy. Material scientists have taken a step toward this future, demonstrating how applyi… Continue reading Perfect pressure boosts high-density lithium metal battery performance

“Dead zone” discovery could bring high-density silicon batteries to life

With the potential to hold many times more energy than the graphite it would replace, silicon is an enticing proposition for scientists working on next-generation lithium batteries. The trouble is that the silicon doesn’t stand up so well to the stress… Continue reading “Dead zone” discovery could bring high-density silicon batteries to life

Flotation tank treatment separates battery materials for easy recycling

The increasing popularity of electric vehicles is undoubtedly a good thing for the planet, but there is a problem mounting in the background as more and more take to the road. The lithium-ion batteries used in EVs don’t last forever, and a massive infl… Continue reading Flotation tank treatment separates battery materials for easy recycling

New all-solid-state battery holds promise for grid storage and EVs

Two highly promising pathways in the pursuit of next-gen battery technology involve using solid-state electrolytes rather than liquid ones, and adding silicon to the anode component to boost energy density. A newly developed architecture places these t… Continue reading New all-solid-state battery holds promise for grid storage and EVs