Table of Contents Show
Powerful US EV battery endures 1,000 cycles, charges 80% in 10 mins
Researchers in the United States have unveiled a groundbreaking battery technology for electric vehicles (EVs) that dramatically enhances recharging capabilities while simultaneously addressing material sourcing challenges. Developed at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL), this innovative battery can recover up to 80% of its capacity in just minutes, potentially revolutionizing the market and alleviating supply chain strains.
The core of this advancement lies in a new type of current collector that integrates a lightweight polymer between ultra-thin layers of copper and aluminum. This design not only reduces the need for high-demand metals but also bolsters the energy density of the battery, promising longer driving ranges and faster charging times.
Key Innovations in Battery Technology
Rapid Energy Restoration
Lead researcher Georgios Polyzos highlights that this innovative battery technology can restore significant energy in approximately 10 minutes while utilizing considerably less copper and aluminum. "This will substantially enhance energy density while addressing the heightened demand for critical materials," he noted.
Collaboration and Cost Efficiency
In partnership with Soteria Battery Innovation Group, which focuses on improving battery safety, the research team has developed a current collector that could cut manufacturing costs by up to 85%. This advancement can improve energy capacity by 27%, all while maintaining high energy density, even after extensive use across 1,000 cycles.
Lightweight Design
This new current collector design, which weighs only a quarter as much as conventional alternatives, enables EVs to travel further on each charge. This is particularly important as consumers increasingly seek vehicles with longer ranges and quicker charging times.
Overcoming Manufacturing Challenges
One of the most significant hurdles faced during development was preventing the thin polymer from wrinkling during the manufacturing process. By meticulously adjusting processing parameters, the researchers successfully tackled this challenge, paving the way for commercial viability.
A Game-Changer in EV Battery Safety
The innovative metal-polymer current collector is anticipated to transform roll-to-roll battery manufacturing and enhance lithium-ion battery performance in EVs. Brian Morin, CEO of Soteria, emphasized the importance of the polymer in enhancing safety. “Our current collector functions like a circuit breaker, minimizing the risk of battery fires caused by short circuits,” he stated.
Supported by the Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials and Manufacturing Technologies Office, this project reflects a broader initiative to bolster domestic EV battery production and lessen dependence on foreign materials. With rising demand for electric vehicles, this technology provides a pivotal step toward sustainable and affordable solutions.
The findings have been published in the journal Energy & Environmental Materials, emphasizing the potential impact of this innovative battery technology on the future of electric vehicle production.