battery technology

How China Got Ahead on EVs Speakers: Zeyi Yang, China reporter, Amanda Silverman, Features & investigations editor, and Abby Ivory-Ganja, Sr engagement editor In the race to produce and sell more electric vehicles, China has emerged as the unexpected winner. If you visit Shanghai or Shenzhen today, it feels like half of the cars running on the streets are electric. The burgeoning domestic demand also transformed Chinese auto companies into aggressive challengers in the global auto market. What did China’s government…

Researchers at the University of California San Diego have developed a new cathode material for solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries that significantly improves their electrical conductivity and self-healing properties. This material addresses key challenges associated with sulfur cathodes, such as poor electron conductivity and structural damage during use. The innovation holds promise for doubling the energy density of batteries in electric vehicles without increasing weight and extends the battery life, making…

Researchers have engineered a high-performance binder for micro-silicon oxide (SiO)-based electrodes within lithium-ion batteries with poly(vinylphosphonic acid) (PVPA), which enhances electrochemical performance and durability compared to conventional options. Credit: Noriyoshi Matsumi from JAISTResearchers have created a sophisticated binder for silicon oxide electrodes in lithium-ion batteries, improving their electrochemical efficiency and lifespan.Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in various applications but need…

A groundbreaking study by a collaborative research team has discovered a method to induce and control polarization and polarity in metals, overcoming traditional challenges associated with metal’s free electron movement and symmetric structure. By employing flexoelectric fields on strontium ruthenate, the team achieved a transformative breakthrough in material science, promising to enhance the efficiency and longevity of electronic devices. Credit: SciTechDaily.comIn the field of materials science, the concepts of…

Researchers have developed innovative ‘water batteries’ that offer a safe, recyclable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for large-scale energy storage. These aqueous metal-ion batteries use water instead of flammable electrolytes, preventing fire hazards. Their sustainable design facilitates easy disassembly for material reuse or recycling. Significant advancements include overcoming dendrite growth, extending battery lifespan, and achieving competitive energy densities with potential applications in grid storage and…

Researchers have advanced Na-ion battery technology by developing fast-charging capabilities and enhancing the negative electrode with organic materials, reducing reliance on rare, non-European materials. Additionally, they’ve improved the cathode, creating a high-energy, fast-charging, cobalt-free material that lasts longer due to its gradual structural change during use. Credit: TU DelftResearchers at TU Delft have created a battery that uses fewer critical materials, charges rapidly, holds a significant amount of…

A team from the University of Liverpool has developed a new solid lithium-ion conductor that could replace liquid electrolytes in batteries, enhancing safety and efficiency. This discovery, facilitated by AI and interdisciplinary collaboration, paves the way for further advancements in sustainable energy storage solutions. Image represents the lithium ions (in blue) moving through the structure. Credit: University of LiverpoolResearchers at the University of Liverpool have identified a novel solid substance capable of…

A new MIT battery material could offer a more sustainable way to power electric cars. Instead of cobalt or nickel, the new lithium-ion battery includes a cathode based on organic materials. In this image, lithium molecules are shown in glowing pink. Credit: MITChemists at MIT have created a battery cathode from organic materials, which could reduce the electric vehicle industry’s dependence on rare metals.Many electric vehicles are powered by batteries that contain cobalt — a metal that carries high financial,…

Argonne National Laboratory’s investigation into “soft-shorts” in solid-state batteries offers vital information and tools for enhancing electric vehicle battery reliability and design, marking a significant advancement in battery research. Credit: SciTechDaily.comResearchers at Argonne have conducted a comprehensive study of soft shorts, a phenomenon that is an early step toward permanent failure in a battery.An Argonne team developing materials for solid-state batteries took an unexpected detour to investigate tiny…

Yarn-shaped supercapacitors created by NC State researchers in the Wilson College of Textiles. Credit: Nanfei HeWith the rising fascination for wearable technology, there’s been a parallel boost in efforts to develop energy-storage solutions that can be integrated into fabrics. Scientists at North Carolina State University have discovered the “sweet spot” where a threadlike energy storage technology, known as a “yarn-shaped supercapacitor” (YSC), yields the highest and most efficient flow of energy per unit length.“When…