Researchers have recently achieved a significant breakthrough by developing a massless structural battery that is ten times more efficient than previous versions. This innovative battery demonstrates exceptional performance in both structural and energy tests, with plans for further enhancements in the works.
Structural batteries have the potential to revolutionize the fields of electric cars and aircraft by reducing weight and maximizing energy storage capabilities. In a pioneering study conducted by scientists from Chalmers University of Technology and KTH Royal Institute of Technology in Sweden, the concept of a “massless” structural battery is explored.
The unique aspect of a structural battery lies in its ability to serve as both an energy storage device and a load-bearing component within a structure. Imagine if the very structure of your home or a wall itself could also function as a battery. This novel approach opens up exciting possibilities for the design and efficiency of electric vehicles and devices.
The newly developed structural battery comprises a sophisticated composition involving a buffer glass fabric sandwiched between positive and negative electrodes, filled with a cutting-edge polymer electrolyte, and then cured to form a durable, flat battery cell. This advanced design exhibits excellent conductivity and withstands rigorous tensile testing in various directions.
With an energy density of 24 Wh/kg, the structural battery currently offers approximately 20% of the capacity compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. However, the significant reduction in vehicle weight leads to improved energy efficiency, enhanced safety, and increased overall performance. Additionally, the battery’s stiffness of 25 GPa positions it as a formidable competitor to traditional construction materials.
Researchers are focused on further optimizing the battery’s performance by replacing aluminum foil in the electrode with carbon fiber material and thinning out the separator. These enhancements could potentially boost the energy production to 75 Wh/kg and increase stiffness to 75 GPa, setting new benchmarks for massless battery technology.
Beyond electric cars, potential applications for massless batteries extend to e-bikes, satellites, laptops, and even aircraft. The integration of massless structural batteries could facilitate the electrification of various transportation modes, including conventional airplanes and vertical takeoff and landing vehicles. The combination of massless batteries with solar panels presents a promising avenue for sustainable energy storage solutions.
As researchers continue to refine the capabilities of massless structural batteries, the possibilities for their utilization across diverse industries are vast and evolving.
