I’ve long since been impressed with the efficiency the world has reached when dealing with lithium-based batteries. As the years have gone by, multiple revolutions and changes in battery tech have been born out of constant research and scientific advancement. While solid state batteries (SSLiBs) are set to change the world with lightning fast charging capabilities with epic storage capacity. Let’s not forget that manufacturing of this new battery is low cost and a logical step for all industries to move towards. Yet, as an interim step for the immediate market, a new lithium-sulphur battery emerges. Let’s take a quick look at Li-S, perhaps the best battery for smaller and larger devices yet!
The land down under, specially, Monash University brings lithium-sulphur batteries as an alternative technology that can last days. Performance increases happen all the time through technology efficiency but a radical overhaul and gain of batteries is a feat that needs to be recognised as revolutionary. Li-S batteries are not just super-charged but also pack way more. Tests show over four times battery performance gains over current options and the world is taking swift notice. Asia, Europe and just about everywhere else are very interested in getting this new technology tested and commercialised. Testing for safety, efficiency and general regulation is important but this would significantly change the way society functions in general if technology continues to strive for better energy efficiency. Electric vehicles are another prime sector that will look forward to boosting mileage from the technology.
It’s amazing to see emerging energy technologies contribute to cleaner forms of energy and the electric age is fast coming in all areas. Inspiration and advancement aren’t often made by reinventing the wheel, rather, it’s about creativity and inspiration in an effective direction that can unlock new potentials. Scientists at the Aussie university have taken inspiration from detergent powder manufacturing techniques used in the 70s to create a new battery that reaches stability not previously achieved. Lessons are to be learnt in all areas of research and without communication, an open mind and general curiosity, progress would be stifled and perhaps non-existent. Once again, the new technology presents a low cost and extremely simple manufacturing process that is underpinned by hydro-based activities.
With climate change effects being felt all over, it’s encouraging to see advancement to not only more utility but also inspiration derived from areas of science. I am sure that in the years to come, similar discoveries and techniques will be derived from works of the past, giving birth to new levels not seen before. It’s an exciting time and perhaps 2020 is the start of a special decade for civilisation.
Sources :
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/01/200103141043.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium-ion_battery
