Are new battery technologies a good idea?

The biggest concerns — and major motivation for researchers and startups to focus on new battery technologies — are related to safety, specifically fire risk, and the sustainability of the materials used in the production of lithium-ion batteries, namely cobalt, nickel and magnesium.

Are lithium-ion batteries the future of 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.

Could a new lithium-ion battery make electric cars more sustainable?

MIT researchers have now designed a battery material that could offer a more sustainable way to power electric cars. The new lithium-ion battery includes a cathode based on organic materials, instead of cobalt or nickel (another metal often used in lithium-ion batteries).

What are alternative batteries?

In addition, alternative batteries are being developed that reduce reliance on rare earth metals. These include solid-state batteries that replace the Li-Ion battery’s liquid electrolyte with a solid electrolyte, resulting in a more efficient and safer battery.

Are new battery technologies reinventing the wheel?

But new battery technologies are being researched and developed to rival lithium-ion batteries in terms of efficiency, cost and sustainability. Many of these new battery technologies aren’t necessarily reinventing the wheel when it comes to powering devices or storing energy.

How do zinc based batteries work?

Zinc-based batteries work much like lithium-ion batteries with zinc ions flowing from the battery’s anode to cathode. This class of new battery technology includes zinc-bromine, zinc-manganese dioxide, zinc-air and zinc-ion batteries. How Will They Be Used?