Next-Generation Battery Technologies

- Advanced Battery Technology to Power the Future

Advanced battery technology involves the use of complex techniques and materials in the design and production of batteries to improve their performance, efficiency and durability. This could include various research areas focused on creating batteries with better energy density, longevity and cost, as well as the development of innovative charging methods, such as fast and wireless charging. Some of the advanced battery technologies include silicon and lithium metal anodes, solid electrolytes, advanced lithium-ion designs, lithium-sulfur (Li-S), sodium-ion (Na-ion), redox flow batteries (RFB), zinc-ion, zinc Bromine and zinc-air batteries.

Advanced batteries have found multiple applications in various industries. They are currently used in portable electronics, electric and hybrid vehicles, energy storage systems, medical equipment, industrial equipment and military applications. For example, Sila Nanotechnologies is working on a new lithium-ion battery that uses silicon-based anodes instead of graphite. The company claims that the new battery will have higher energy density and faster charging times than conventional lithium-ion batteries. The company aims to increase the energy density of battery cells by 20% to 40%.

The development and use of silicon anodes and lithium metal anodes are two of the most dramatic material advancements for lithium-ion batteries. The potential of these anode materials to significantly increase energy density is exciting, however, ways to improve rate capability, safety, and even cost are also being explored. Major lifetime issues with silicon and lithium metals have slowed and limited commercial use so far. For lithium-sulfur batteries, longevity is even more of a challenge.

- The New Generation Battery Technologies

Most battery-powered devices, from smartphones and tablets to electric vehicles and energy storage systems, rely on lithium-ion battery technology. Because lithium-ion batteries are able to store a significant amount of energy in such a small package, charge quickly and last long, they became the battery of choice for new devices.

But new battery technologies are being researched and developed to rival lithium-ion batteries in terms of efficiency, cost and sustainability. 

Following are new battery technologies:

• Solid-state batteries
• Lithium-sulfur batteries
• Cobalt-free lithium-ion batteries
• Sodium-ion batteries
• Fluoride-ion batteries
• Iron-air batteries
• Zinc-based batteries

Many of these new battery technologies aren’t necessarily reinventing the wheel when it comes to powering devices or storing energy. They work much like lithium-ion batteries do, just with different materials. 

[More to come ...]