American scientists have developed a new aqueous battery capable of stable cycles for up to 2,000 times. Given that aqueous batteries are safer than non-aqueous lithium batteries, they hold promise as a complement to lithium-ion batteries, particularly in applications like electric vehicles. This research was published in the latest issue of Nature Nanotechnology.
An aqueous battery utilizes a water solution as its electrolyte. Unlike traditional non-aqueous lithium-ion batteries, aqueous batteries employ water-based electrolytes, eliminating flammability risks and significantly reducing safety hazards during use. Additionally, compared to conventional battery types, aqueous batteries have a smaller environmental footprint, making them more eco-friendly. The safety and environmental advantages of aqueous batteries suggest potential widespread applications in <b>energy storage systems</b> and electric vehicles.
However, there are several challenges with aqueous batteries. Firstly, due to the electrolyte being a water solution, the ion transport speed is relatively slow, resulting in lower energy density. Secondly, the presence of impurities in the electrolyte can diminish its stability, negatively impacting battery lifespan and performance. These limitations currently restrict the application range of aqueous batteries.
To address these challenges, the latest research has introduced a <b>dual electrolyte system</b> that combines aqueous and organic components, utilizing lithium nanoclusters to enhance electrolyte performance. These nanoclusters are composed of <b>12-crown-4</b> and <b>dimethoxy diethylene glycol</b>.
This innovative design resolves the electrolyte issues faced by aqueous batteries, improving stability and reducing internal resistance, thereby achieving a high cycle life of <b>2,000 cycles</b>.
The new aqueous battery operates within a voltage range of <b>0 to 4.9 volts</b>, making it cleaner, safer, and easier to recycle than other battery types. Its extended lifecycle demonstrates exceptional durability, establishing a solid foundation for widespread adoption.
The breakthrough of this new aqueous battery injects significant potential into the renewable energy sector. The core significance of this achievement lies in its ability to redefine the boundaries of battery safety and environmental protection through disruptive technology. In practical applications, the intrinsic safety of the aqueous electrolyte greatly reduces the risk of fires in settings such as energy storage stations and electric vehicles, particularly in environments where safety redundancies are critical. Furthermore, its eco-friendly characteristics align with current trends, minimizing heavy metal pollution while simplifying recycling processes and promoting the development of a circular economy.
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