Lithium-Free Batteries: Greener Alternative From DTU

A researcher from the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) has developed an innovative rock-based material for creating lithium-free batteries, providing a more sustainable and eco-friendlier alternative for electric vehicles.

The patented supermaterial is made from potassium silicate, which enables the development of silicate-based batteries. These batteries use rock minerals that are among the most abundant materials in the Earth's crust.

One of the main advantages of this new material is its high resistance to air and moisture, allowing it to be molded into a thin layer akin to paper within the battery. Additionally, these batteries are solid, meaning that ions travel through a solid rather than a liquid, as in today's lithium-ion batteries. This results in faster ion movement, leading to quicker, more efficient charging and improved fire resistance.

The research team made this discovery while seeking to develop rapid superionic conductors capable of withstanding high temperatures, humidity, and corrosive gases for use in maritime sensors.

According to Mohamad Khoshkalam, Lead Researcher of the project, “natural silicate ores are generally known for their chemical stability and durability, making them relatively resistant to harsh environmental conditions. Therefore, we focused on finding ways to enhance conductivity in these minerals, which led us to discover their potential as battery components.”