Advancing Energy Storage: Zinc-Sulfur Batteries as a Safer, Sustainable Alternative

• Dic 22, 2024 - 16:59

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries power devices from electric vehicles to wearable technology, but researchers at Case Western Reserve University suggest zinc-based batteries may offer a more sustainable and cost-effective alternative.

A recent study published in Angewandte Chemie highlights a significant breakthrough in developing high-performance, low-cost zinc-sulfur batteries.

"This research is a major step toward safer and more sustainable energy storage solutions," said Chase Cao, principal investigator and assistant professor of mechanical and aerospace engineering at the Case School of Engineering. "Aqueous zinc-sulfur batteries hold the potential to power everything from renewable energy systems to portable electronics with a smaller environmental footprint and reduced reliance on scarce materials."

While lithium-ion batteries dominate the market, their reliance on rare materials, high manufacturing costs, and safety concerns make alternatives appealing. Zinc-sulfur batteries, in contrast, use abundant, inexpensive materials and pose fewer environmental risks. However, challenges such as zinc-anode corrosion, low conductivity, and dendrite growth have hindered their commercialization.

Cao's team addressed these issues by introducing two additives: propylene glycol methyl ether and zinc-iodide. These innovations delivered critical improvements, including a 20% increase in energy capacity, enhanced conductivity and stability, and suppression of zinc dendrite formation.

Dendrites, tiny metal projections that can cause short circuits and fires, are a significant safety concern in lithium-ion batteries. By mitigating dendrite growth, zinc-sulfur batteries become a safer and more reliable option.

"These additives not only improve efficiency but also tackle persistent safety challenges," said Guiyin Xu, professor at Donghua University in Shanghai and co-senior author of the study. "The result is a compact, higher-density battery capable of more recharge cycles without significant degradation."

Beyond safety and affordability, zinc-sulfur batteries offer higher energy density compared to lithium-ion systems, enabling smaller and longer-lasting designs. This makes them ideal for renewable energy storage and applications demanding reliability and efficiency.

Cao’s primary focus for these batteries lies in powering innovative technologies, such as soft robotics and advanced sensing systems. His lab, the Soft Machines and Electronics Laboratory at Case Western Reserve University, is working on biologically inspired swimming robots that depend on lightweight, durable batteries for long missions. Additionally, he explores applications for space exploration, farming, and solutions for managing hazardous space debris.

The research, conducted in collaboration with Fudan University and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, underscores the transformative potential of zinc-sulfur batteries in energy storage and beyond.

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