SMU solution may be key to low-cost, long-lasting renewable batteries for electric vehicles
https://www.smu.edu/news/research/smu-solution-may-be-key-to-low-cost-long-lasting-renewable-batteries-for-electric-vehiclesSMU solution may be key to low-cost, long-lasting renewable batteries for electric vehicles
SMU engineer and his research team have found a way to make lithium-sulfur batteries last longer, with higher energy, than existing renewable batteries.
October 24, 2024
DALLAS (SMU) Lithium-sulfur batteries have never lived up to their potential as the next generation of renewable batteries for electric vehicles and other devices. But SMU mechanical engineer
Donghai Wang and his research team have found a way to make these Li-S batteries last longer with higher energy levels than existing renewable batteries.
The research team has been able to prevent Li-S batteries from producing an unwanted side effect known as polysulfide dissolution that appears over time, shortening their lifespan.
This breakthrough could lead to more durable, long-lasting batteries, said Wang, the Brown Foundation Chair of Mechanical Engineering and Professor of Mechanical Engineering at SMU Lyle. His research focuses on the design and synthesis of nanostructured functional materials and energy storage technologies like Li-ion batteries and also beyond Li-ion technology.
A study published in the journal Nature Sustainability shows that the teams newly developed hybrid polymer network cathode allows Li-S batteries to deliver over 900 mAh/g (milliampere-hours per gram mass), compared to the typical 150-250 mAh/g capacity in lithium-ion batteries. That means it has a much higher amount of electrical energy it can preserve.
http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/s41893-024-01453-0