Researchers have shown that a newly discovered set of materials can quickly recharge batteries, increase the likelihood that smartphones will be fully charged in minutes, and accelerate the application of major clean technologies such as electric cars and solar energy, such as technologies and environmental technology. The rate at which the battery is charged is partly determined by the rate at which the positive particle (called lithium ion) moves to the negative electrode, which is then stored at the negative electrode.
One of the big factors limiting our fast-charging ' super ' batteries is the speed at which lithium ions move in ceramic media. One possible solution is to shrink each material by using nanoparticles. But the cost of nano-particles is very expensive and the manufacturing process is complex.
As a result, scientists have been looking for alternative materials to circumvent the problem.
At present, researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a group of materials called ' niobium-tungsten oxides ', through which lithium ions can move at very high speeds, meaning that batteries can be recharged quickly. The study, published in the journal Nature, said the first author, Kentgriffith, ' niobium-tungsten oxides are intrinsically different.
' This material was first discovered in 1965, has a rigid, open structure, and has a larger particle size than other commonly used battery materials. To measure the movement of lithium ions in these unusual media, the researchers used techniques similar to those found in MRI scanners.
They found that lithium ions move at hundreds of times times faster than conventional ceramic electrode materials in these materials. Another advantage of these alternative materials is that they are inexpensive and easy to manufacture. Griffith said: ' These oxides are easy to manufacture and do not require additional chemicals or solvents.
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Optimized batteries can revolutionize electric cars and solar grid storage, two of the most environmentally friendly technologies. The study's signature, Clare, said the next step would be to optimize the use of the material throughout the battery, which could be recycled in the hours and miles required for electric vehicles. Clare added, ' For example, people can quickly recharge electric buses at the station.
' Professor of electrochemical engineering at University College London Dan Brett, though not involved in the work, but the findings are still highly appreciated, ' The finding is exciting, especially the changes it has made to battery performance ', he said, ' and the real wisdom of the job is to have insight into a measuring mechanism, To measure the speed at which lithium ions move through the substance.
' Brett finally added: ' The technology will also further optimize these materials, so we can expect that in the future, [battery] power, energy and life will all get a new improvement.
' Scientists at Cambridge University discover new materials for niobium-tungsten oxides | The battery is expected to be fully charged within a few minutes
