Sodium-Ion batteries have long been stalwarts among basic batteries. Unlike lithium, we have an abundant supply of sodium salts. Sodium-Ion batteries drain down completely and ship in a stable state. By comparison, Lithium batteries must retain at least 30% of their charge. This is enough to ignite after a short circuit. So why is there a debate about Sodium-Ion versus Lithium-Ion at all?
Well firstly, Sodium-Ion batteries are bigger and heavier. This is not an issue where they provide grid storage for renewable sources. Certainly, this is a problem when it comes to electric cars. The game changer is their charging rate.
They take longer to cycle. This makes them less popular with consumers. They also take longer to discharge. This renders them unsuitable for high-power applications.
Update: The Sodium-Ion versus Lithium-Ion Debate
Last year, the Journal of the American Chemical Society reported scientists at Technical University of Ilmenau in Germany produced a Sodium-Ion battery recycling at rates equivalent to the best organic Lithium-Ion ones. They thought this might pave the way for use in portable and wearable electronics. Little did they know how relevant this would be for consumer health and safety.
Uniti’s Modest Operations Could Indicate Real Progress
Progress in meaningful Sodium-Ion applications has not been dramatic since then. Lithium has been leading the sodium versus lithium-ion stakes when it comes to consumer goods. This October, low-profile electric car startup Uniti announced plans to change the balance. Its modest 400kg, two seat electric car will be running on sodium batteries.
Their runabout aims squarely at high-income city millennials. It will be ‘mainly made of biomaterials’ although no detail is forthcoming. Top speed will be less than sixty miles per hour with approximately 100 miles between charges. The sodium-ion versus lithium-ion stakes are on the up again. Stay in touch for updates.
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A Sodium Ion Battery Could Replace a Lithium Ion Battery in the Future
