A step closer to flame-retardant, eco-friendly batteries
Agriculture & Energy
The scientists' findings could make potassium‐ion batteries a safer, more viable alternative to lithium
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Spotted: Researchers at Australia’s University of Wollongong have developed a non-flammable electrolyte, an integral battery part. Their work has the potential to help to create flame-retardant, eco-friendly batteries.
The scientists have discovered a way to use a non-flammable material for eco-friendly batteries, such as potassium-ions. Today most energy storage depends on lithium-ions, but they are expensive and non-environmentally friendly. They are also highly combustible.
The University of Wollongong team has created a non-flammable electrolyte, the part of a battery that conducts energy. The work has resulted in a non-flammable potassium-ion battery, which is less expensive and more eco-friendly than lithium.
The electrolyte is made with a fireproofing agent, triethyl phosphate. The material was tested in lithium-ion batteries but was unsuitable because a high concentration was needed. When used in potassium-ion batteries, however, the electrolyte allowed stable charging and discharging.
Explore More: Battery Innovations | Sustainability Innovations
6th February 2020
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