Science & Technology

Scientists develop safer, recyclable ‘water batteries’

Sydney, Australia, Feb 22 (EFE).- An international team of scientists has developed ‘water batteries’ that are recyclable, reduce the risk of explosions and fires, and promise to be less toxic, safer and cheaper than current options, academics reported Thursday.

The team, led by the Australian university RMIT, used water instead of organic electrolytes, which allow the flow of electrical current between the positive and negative terminals, meaning the batteries can’t catch fire or explode, unlike their lithium-ion counterparts, RMIT said in a statement.

“We use materials such as magnesium and zinc that are abundant in nature, inexpensive and less toxic than alternatives used in other kinds of batteries, which helps to lower manufacturing costs and reduces risks to human health and the environment,” said lead researcher Distinguished Professor Tianyi Ma.

In the research process, the team made a series of small-scale trial batteries and developed them to last “significantly longer” than lithium-ion batteries, “making them ideal for high-speed and intensive use.”

“With impressive capacity and extended lifespan, we’ve not only advanced battery technology but also successfully integrated our design with solar panels, showcasing efficient and stable renewable energy storage,” Ma said.

Ma is confident that the water batteries, mainly those containing magnesium, are ideal for large-scale applications, such as in renewable energy integration and grid storage, especially in terms of safety.

“As our technology advances, other kinds of smaller-scale energy storage applications such as powering people’s homes and entertainment devices could become a reality,” Ma said.

The batteries can also be safely disassembled and their materials reused and recycled at the end of their lifespan, compared to current battery disposal challenges.

“Magnesium-ion water batteries have the potential to replace lead-acid battery in the short term – like one to three years – and to replace potentially lithium-ion battery in the long term, five to 10 years from now.” EFE

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