Researchers in Canada have tested solid-state sodium batteries that are safer, cheaper and more sustainable than lithium ones.
Research ers in Canada have just unveiled a new solid-state sodium battery design that could potentially lead to cheaper, safer, and more sustainable energy storage systems.Developed at Western University in Ontario, the breakthrough replaces lithium , which is costly, flammable, and increasingly scarce, with sodium , one of the most abundant elements on Earth.
Managed by Yang Zhao, PhD, a professor at the department of mechanical and materials engineering at the university, the project moved solid-state sodium battery technology closer to powering electric vehicles and large renewable-energy grids.“Sodium is much more abundant and cheaper, and if we can make it work in a solid-state form of the electrolyte, it could be cheaper, safer, and long-lasting,” Zhao explained.Solving lithium’s limitationsLithium-ion batteries have powered smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles for decades. However, their limitations are becoming increasingly clear as the demand for more sustainable energy storage continues to grow.Li-ion cells rely on rare, increasingly in-demand materials that must be mined and processed, and can be expensive to produce. They also pose fire risks because of the flammable liquid electrolytes.In contrast, solid-state batteries use solid electrolytes, which significantly reduce fire hazards and offer higher energy density. Still, building a solid-state sodium battery that can conduct ions efficiently has been one of the toughest challenges in materials science.To tackle the issue, Zhao and his team developed a new solid electrolyte material composed of sulfur and chlorine. “Right now most of the batteries we use contain flammable liquid electrolytes and rare elements like lithium,” he noted.Although chemically stable, traditional electrolytes struggle to move sodium ions from the positive to the negative end of the battery. However, by adding sulfur to the material’s crystal structure, the team was able to help the ions hop through it, while strengthening the material. A cheaper battery choiceLaboratory tests revealed that, in addition to its high sodium-ion conductivity, the material also showed excellent thermal and mechanical resilience. The researchers noted that this level of resilience is essential for real-world performance. This is because batteries are expected to survive thousands of charge–discharge cycles and extreme temperatures without significant degradation. According to the team, the material’s stability could make it ideal for EVs, grid storage, as well as portable electronics.To better understand their innovation, the team used the Canadian Light Source synchrotron facility at the University of Saskatchewan. The high-powered X-rays allowed them to observe how ions move inside the solid electrolyte.“These X-ray tools allow us to see the local chemical environment, ion pathways, and bonding structures in ways that regular lab instruments can’t, Zhao stated. “They’re absolutely essential for developing solid-state battery materials.”Even though commercial solid-state sodium batteries are still several years away, the researchers are certain that their innovative solution moves the technology significantly closer to market readiness. “We’re making real progress toward safer, more cost-effective batteries,” Zhao concluded in a press release. The study has been published in the journals Advanced Functional Materials and Advanced Materials.
Energy &Amp Environment Inventions And Machines Lithium Batteries Physics Research Sodium Batteries Solid-State Batteries Study Sustainability
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Tesla vs. The Rest: Which EVs Have The Most Range After 3 YearsFrom Hyundai and Cadillac to Tesla and Ford, these brands show the best battery degradation after three years on the road.
Read more »
EVs could get 2.8x more range, 3x battery life with new ‘oxygen bodyguard’ gelDiscover how a revolutionary battery design could increase electric vehicle efficiency and ensure greater safety and longevity.
Read more »
EVs Now Sell Faster Than Gas Cars In The Used MarketUsed car prices are climbing again in 2025, and buyers are slowing down, though not when it comes to EVs
Read more »
Can Cheap Electricity From Agrivoltaics Give EVs The Power They Need?Farmers may have the solution to the EV charging chicken-or-egg problem by providing cheap electricity from solar on their farms.
Read more »
12 EVs That Stand Out For ReliabilityMudassir began his career as a news writer in 2020, expanding to opinion pieces on gaming and hardware soon after. From there, he transitioned to interviewing game developers for eXputer, often focusing on the overlooked sides of game creation, from hardware limitations to the evolving role of AI in development.
Read more »
Cheaper leasing deals for EVs are en routeNew offer aims to stabilise second-hand market amid “deeply concerning” value slump
Read more »