KIST researchers develop safe and economical aqueous rechargeable battery to address the limitations of Li-ion batteries. They are using a composite catalyst that effectively converts hydrogen gas into water, thus reducing any potential risk. It is an innovative discovery that can offer practical and efficient alternatives to energy storage systems.

A team of scientists at the Korean Institute of Science and Technology (KIST) has successfully created an aqueous rechargeable battery that is both safe and cost-effective. This innovation resolves the limitations encountered with current lithium-ion batteries that are commonly used in energy storage systems. The key to their success lies in the development of a composite catalyst comprising of manganese dioxide and palladium. This unique catalyst has the ability to convert potentially dangerous hydrogen gas into harmless water, ensuring both safety and optimal performance.

As a result of this discovery, the widespread use of these advanced batteries in energy storage systems and other industries is now a viable possibility. This offers a highly practical, economical, and most importantly, safer alternative to existing technologies.

There is a growing demand for energy storage systems (ESS) that can efficiently store and supply electricity when required. However, the current use of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) in ESS presents two significant challenges – high cost and potential fire hazards. It is crucial to urgently explore more cost-effective and safer alternatives to meet this rising demand.

Dr. Oh, Si Hyoung of KIST, said, “This technology pertains to a customized safety strategy for aqueous rechargeable batteries, based on the built-in active safety mechanism, through which risk factors are automatically controlled. Moreover, it can be applied to various industrial facilities where hydrogen gas leakage is one of the major safety concerns (for instance, hydrogen gas station, nuclear power plant, etc) to protect public safety.”

Aqueous Rechargeable Batteries Research

Dr. Oh, Si Hyoung, alongside a research team at the Energy Storage Research Center at the Korea Institute of Science and Technology (KIST), has successfully engineered this battery, addressing the pressing requirements for cost-effectiveness and safety.

Due to lower raw material costs, aqueous rechargeable batteries are not as expensive as Li-ion batteries. However, hydrogen gas production poses a safety threat, hampering commercialization.

Also See: Green Innovation: UPEI’s Hydrogen Experiment with Potato Peels

Advancing Safety Measures in Battery Technology

Researchers have tried to prevent the contact between the metal anode and the electrolyte by using a surface protection layer. However, corrosion of the metal anode and accumulation of hydrogen gas can still occur, leading to potential detonation in the long run.

To address this crucial problem, the research team has successfully created a composite catalyst composed of manganese dioxide and palladium. This catalyst possesses the remarkable ability to instantly transform hydrogen gas produced within the cell into water. This guarantees optimal performance and unparalleled safety for the cell.

Under normal conditions, manganese dioxide is unresponsive to hydrogen gas. By simply introducing a small quantity of palladium, the catalyst swiftly absorb hydrogen, transforming it back into water.

KIST researchers develop safe and economical aqueous rechargeable battery, and this invention is expected to take over the battery market soon due to its safer nature and cost-effectiveness.

Source: Highly safe aqueous rechargeable batteries via electrolyte regeneration

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Elliot is a passionate environmentalist and blogger who has dedicated his life to spreading awareness about conservation, green energy, and renewable energy. With a background in environmental science, he has a deep understanding of the issues facing our planet and is committed to educating others on how they can make a difference.

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