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A new, novel electrolyte that enhances the stability, increases the energy density and lowers the cost of aqueous rechargeable batteries.
About
Despite facing issues relating to safety, cost and environmental concern, Li-ion batteries continue to be the most popular type for portable and stationary applications. For larger-scale applications, especially stationary grid electricity storage, aqueous rechargeable batteries are becoming more common due to their low-cost and safe, water-based electrolytes. However, aqueous electrolytes have a narrow electrochemical window that limits the stability and energy density of conventional aqueous rechargeable batteries. Researchers at the University of Warwick have developed a novel “oversaturated gel” electrolyte using cost-effective inorganic salts. This new, novel electrolyte enhances the cyclic stability, increases the energy density and lowers the cost of aqueous rechargeable batteries.
Key Benefits
The new, novel OSGE can be integrated to existing plants with minimum modification. The new OSGE saves on operating costs by increasing both the energy density and operating temperature range. • Improved safety and environmental impact due to the use of water, instead of flammable organic chemicals, as the solvent; • Lower cost as inexpensive inorganic salts are used as electrolytes; • Higher energy density (in aqueous rechargeable batteries) due to the wider electrochemical stability window of the electrolytes. • Improved cyclic stability due to high stability of OSGE in aqueous rechargeable batteries; • Wider opera ng range as OSGE have higher boiling point and lower freezing point, leading to wide operating temperature.
Applications
Batteries Electricity Storage Batteries Supercapacitors Grid electricity storage