Dr Daniel Choi, Associate Professor at Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi released an interesting research paper. That’s because he and his mechanical and materials engineering research team have invented a new paper thin battery he says. However, this is not in itself uniquely remarkable. Although the prof modestly adds “spacecraft have all sorts of left-over space into which our batteries could easily fold”.
This Paper Thin Battery Could Have an Interesting Journey
“You could layer my paper thin batteries into areas traditionally for rectangular batteries,” Dr Daniel Choi explains. Therefore, they could travel on the next Mars rover, or even visit the far reaches of space in unmanned vehicles.
Reading between the lines we discover his invention tackles two lithium-ion battery challenges. These two limitations are low energy density, and a likelihood of catching fire in out of spec situations. However, Dr Daniel Choi’s fresh approach resolves these problems, and may therefore prove suitable for space exploration.
More about Daniel Choi and His Team’s Approach
The Abu Dhabi researchers have developed a battery that uses thin-film electrodes, Gulf News reports. Moreover, these comprise “carbon nanotube-based nano composites sandwiching a thin-film polymer-based solid electrolyte”. This combination assures enhanced transportation of ions between electrodes.
This new device awaits approval from the U.S. Patents Office. However Dr Daniel Choi can hardly contain his enthusiasm. Because “The creation of the battery’s design will also have huge implications for robotics”, he says. And emerging IoT technologies in the post fourth industrial revolution world, he adds. The new paper thin battery apparently weighs 80% less than traditional versions while returning 90% of their energy.
“Essentially, our battery is a flexible, lightweight, ultra-thin sheet with a myriad of potential applications,” Daniel Choi explains. Thus we see potential for his new design, as it may resolve space exploration’s concern of lithium-battery fires in space.
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Preview Image: Paper-Thin and Flexible Batteries
