We are satisfied that lithium-air batteries are an exciting class of rechargeable batteries. This is because we believe they could one day store far more energy than lithium-ion batteries do. So does this mean we could be flying high with lithium-air batteries someday soon? Unfortunately, we suspect we will have to wait a while longer…
The Big Difference That Makes Lithium-Air Powerful
We are well aware that size and weight are critical for batteries. We could be flying high with lithium-air sooner than with other technologies, because:
- Instead of keeping all the chemicals needed for the reaction inside the battery, they use oxygen from the surrounding air as one of the active ingredients.
- This should make them much lighter while still storing a large amount of energy. Weight is a critical factor when it comes to flying through the air!
How Lithium-Air Batteries Are Simply More Efficient
Lithium inside the battery reacts with oxygen from the air to produce electricity. This reaction reverses during recharging so the battery can be used again. This sums up how lithium-air batteries could provide much more energy for their weight than existing battery technologies.
Great Potential for Flying With This Technology
Weight is one of the biggest challenges for electric aircraft. We could be flying high with lithium-air batteries some day, because we would not have to bear the weight of some traditional battery ingredients.
But, Unfortunately, We Are Not ‘Flying High’ Yet
A lighter battery that stores more energy could allow aircraft to fly further, carry more passengers or cargo, and reduce emissions from short- and medium-distance flights. However, we are not there yet, because:
- Lithium-air batteries are still at the research stage. Scientists must solve several difficult problems before they become practical.
- Current designs have a short working life, recharge slowly, lose capacity rapidly, and are sensitive to carbon dioxide and moisture.
Why We Must Allow Scientists More Time
Researchers are developing new materials and better battery designs to overcome these obstacles. Although lithium-air batteries are unlikely to power commercial airliners in the near future, we believe they remain one of the most promising long-term battery chemistries.
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