Advanced Batteries Leading to Evolution of EVs

Utilities Tech Outlook | Friday, November 30, 2018

Traditional lithium-ion batteries work depending on the wet-chemistry which involves liquid or polymer electrolytes that generate power. However, under rough usage conditions, they also generate large resistance resulting in the heating up of the battery. Unless controlled properly, the heat can become destructive, one of the main reasons for the slower charging of EVs. However, the advanced solid-state batteries, as the name implies, contain no liquid. This makes the batteries loss resistant, and so they don't overheat, which is one of the keys to fast recharging. The existing solid-state batteries are not capable of generating enough energy to push a car or work efficiently in low temperatures.

But, rechargeable zinc-based batteries can store as much energy as lithium-ion batteries. These advanced batteries are also safer, smaller, cheaper, and lighter than the traditional ones. A new research result states that zinc batteries can be used in micro-hybrids, electric vehicles, and bicycles, and even on power grids and mobile phones. Researchers are aggressively testing the batteries for exploring any chances of scaling up this technology. Moreover, when it comes to electric vehicles, the new batteries will be about 50 percent less costly than the standard lithium-ion systems.

Recently, after a few horrifying battery bursting incidents around the globe, Lithium-ion batteries have presented safety concerns. These incidents were the result of overheating which made them burst into flames, and explode. Some of the leading organizations across the globe are searching for alternative technologies for batteries that are more energy efficient and safe. Especially, the Navy and Military teams of various countries are having more concern with the safety of lithium-ion batteries.

This is why Zinc batteries came into the picture. These innovative batteries do not pose the same fire risk linked with lithium-ion batteries. Moreover, it is matchless in terms of specific energy, as well as the total energy density which is energy per unit volume of a standard battery.

Zinc being less costly and widely available, adds up to the cost-effectiveness as well as advantages of the battery. However, a single disadvantage as of now with zinc-based batteries is their inability to be recharged. Ultimately they develop a tendency to grow conductive dendrites inside the battery, which can grow long enough to cause short circuits. Also, zinc-based batteries typically are unable to survive several charge-discharge cycles like a traditional battery. 

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