The Sodium-Soufre batteries are the subject of intensive research and we have already talked about this remarkable technology technology worthy of interest several times. Although their planned energy density is slightly lower than that of lithium-ion batteries, other advantages prevail over this small downside.
Replacement of lithium and cobalt with sodium and sulfur would considerably reduce the production costs of batteries. These two components are widely available and would not miss even if this technology was used on a large scale. It is a striking contrast with the cobalt, which is a rare material which our planet will eventually miss.
However, the very reactive sulfur, which is a key component of particularly corrosive acids, poses a problem. After only a few hundred load cycles, or even less, the cells of these batteries fall down due to a short circuit.
A familiar perfume could solve the problem
Researchers from the Max Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces () are currently attacking this problem with a solid construction composed of linalol and sulfur. In this case, sulfur ions are kept in place while sodium ions can pass through the mesh, which is approximately 100,000 times thinner than a human hair, depending on the study.
-This allows an exchange of electrons without altering or damaging the structure of the cell. Another advantage, Linalol is a well -known fragrance, widely used in cosmetics and cultivated on a large scale in the form of lavender.
Thus, the new NAS battery is largely made up of inexpensive and easily available substances. And its performances are already formidable. After 1,000 load cycles, its remaining capacity was 87 % compared to the original value. The 80 % threshold was reached after 1,500 cycles, which would mark the end of the battery life cycle.
In addition, the cell tension of around 1.0 volt and the energy density of around 500 wattheures per kilogram are also impressive. It remains to be seen whether the large -scale production of this battery is viable. In any case, it could be a new fascinating battery technology for manufacturers and fans of electric vehicles, as well as for lavender cultivators.
