Scientists at Chennai’s Presidency College have developed a highly efficient sodium-ion battery, powerful enough for electric vehicles. Their solid-state technology also does away with the instability associated with lithium-ion, and so they claim a winner. We investigate the secret behind their technology, and wonder if it will ever come to market.
Sodium Perborate Behind New High Efficiency Battery
Sodium perborate is a common additive to laundry detergents, and is a familiar peroxide-based bleach. The compound first appeared in 1898, after researchers treated sodium borate with a solution of hydrogen peroxide and sodium hydroxide.
Although they also achieved the same thing by electrolysis of a solution of sodium borate.
The Presidency College team used sodium perborate in an all solid-state sodium-ion battery, to overcome the problems of liquid electrolyte. These drawbacks include dendrite formation that leads to electrode short-circuits, and lithium-ion battery fires in electric vehicles.
The researchers used their knowledge to develop, and patent an efficient sodium-ion battery for coin cell applications.
“Sodium is more abundant, safer and less expensive than lithium,” the principal investigator told Times of India. Moreover, there are safety concerns with liquid electrolytes because of their unavoidable adverse reactions.
Solid electrolytes are one of the most promising solutions owing to their strong durability, high energy density and remarkable cycling stability.
Chennai Sodium Battery Is a Cost-Effective Solution
The new technology should be relatively simple to take to market, because it follows the traditional two-electrode battery design to produce power. “Sodium perborate is cost-effective, environmentally safe and biodegradable,” the principal investigator adds. ”Offering a safer alternative to conventional solid electrolytes.”
But that is not all that makes this new innovation an apparent winner. We understand that it also promises longer battery life, and greater flexibility too.
The researchers hinted at “unprecedented performance metrics” during their interview with the media. We are keen to learn more about exactly what this means.
More Information
Sodium Sulfur Flower Power? What Next!
