#Battery Technology

[reasonsforhope]

Scientists have developed a new solar-powered system to convert saltwater into fresh drinking water which they say could help reduce dangerous the risk of waterborne diseases like cholera.

Via tests in rural communities, they showed that the process is more than 20% cheaper than traditional methods and can be deployed in rural locations around the globe.

Building on existing processes that convert saline groundwater to freshwater, the researchers from King’s College London, in collaboration with MIT and the Helmholtz Institute for Renewable Energy Systems, created a new system that produced consistent levels of water using solar power, and reported it in a paper published recently in Nature Water.

It works through a process called electrodialysis which separates the salt using a set of specialized membranes that channel salt ions into a stream of brine, leaving the water fresh and drinkable. By flexibly adjusting the voltage and the rate at which salt water flowed through the system, the researchers developed a system that adjusts to variable sunshine while not compromising on the amount of fresh drinking water produced.

Using data first gathered in the village of Chelleru near Hyderabad in India, and then recreating these conditions of the village in New Mexico, the team successfully converted up to 10 cubic meters, or several bathtubs worth of fresh drinking water. This was enough for 3,000 people a day with the process continuing to run regardless of variable solar power caused by cloud coverage and rain.

[Note: Not sure what metric they're using to calculate daily water needs here. Presumably this is drinking water only.]

Dr. Wei He from the Department of Engineering at King’s College London believes the new technology could bring massive benefits to rural communities, not only increasing the supply of drinking water but also bringing health benefits.

“By offering a cheap, eco-friendly alternative that can be operated off the grid, our technology enables communities to tap into alternative water sources (such as deep aquifers or saline water) to address water scarcity and contamination in traditional water supplies,” said He.

“This technology can expand water sources available to communities beyond traditional ones and by providing water from uncontaminated saline sources, may help combat water scarcity or unexpected emergencies when conventional water supplies are disrupted, for example like the recent cholera outbreaks in Zambia.”

In the global rural population, 1.6 billion people face water scarcity, many of whom are reliant on stressed reserves of groundwater lying beneath the Earth’s surface.

However, worldwide 56% of groundwater is saline and unsuitable for consumption. This issue is particularly prevalent in India, where 60% of the land harbors undrinkable saline water. Consequently, there is a pressing need for efficient desalination methods to create fresh drinking water cheaply, and at scale.

Traditional desalination technology has relied either on costly batteries in off-grid systems or a grid system to supply the energy necessary to remove salt from the water. In developing countries’ rural areas, however, grid infrastructure can be unreliable and is largely reliant on fossil fuels...

“By removing the need for a grid system entirely and cutting reliance on battery tech by 92%, our system can provide reliable access to safe drinking water, entirely emission-free, onsite, and at a discount of roughly 22% to the people who need it compared to traditional methods,” He said.

The system also has the potential to be used outside of developing areas, particularly in agriculture where climate change is leading to unstable reserves of fresh water for irrigation.

The team plans to scale up the availability of the technology across India through collaboration with local partners. Beyond this, a team from MIT also plans to create a start-up to commercialize and fund the technology.

“While the US and UK have more stable, diversified grids than most countries, they still rely on fossil fuels. By removing fossil fuels from the equation for energy-hungry sectors like agriculture, we can help accelerate the transition to Net Zero,” He said.

-via Good News Network, April 2, 2024

#water #water scarcity #clean water #saline #desalination #off grid #battery technology #solar power #solar energy #fossil fuels #water shortage #india #hyderabad #new mexico #united states #uk #united kingdom #good news #hope #aquifers

[kp777]

Scientists make breakthrough discovery while experimenting with urine: 'We can reuse a very significant portion of the cobalt'

#battery technology

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from NPR:

When a group of engineers and researchers gathered in a warehouse in Mukilteo, Wash., 10 years ago, they knew they were onto something big. They scrounged up tables and chairs, cleared out space in the parking lot for experiments and got to work.

They were building a battery — a vanadium redox flow battery — based on a design created by two dozen U.S. scientists at a government lab. The batteries were about the size of a refrigerator, held enough energy to power a house, and could be used for decades. The engineers pictured people plunking them down next to their air conditioners, attaching solar panels to them, and everyone living happily ever after off the grid.

The idea for this vanadium redox battery began in the basement of a government lab, three hours southeast of Seattle, called Pacific Northwest National Laboratory. It was 2006, and more than two dozen scientists began to suspect that a special mix of acid and electrolyte could hold unusual amounts of energy without degrading. They turned out to be right.

It took six years and more than 15 million taxpayer dollars for the scientists to uncover what they believed was the perfect vanadium battery recipe. Others had made similar batteries with vanadium, but this mix was twice as powerful and did not appear to degrade the way cellphone batteries or even car batteries do. The researchers found the batteries capable of charging and recharging for as long as 30 years.

"It was beyond promise," said Chris Howard, one of the engineers who worked there for a U.S. company called UniEnergy. "We were seeing it functioning as designed, as expected."

But that's not what happened. Instead of the batteries becoming the next great American success story, the warehouse is now shuttered and empty. All the employees who worked there were laid off. And more than 5,200 miles away, a Chinese company is hard at work making the batteries in Dalian, China.

The Chinese company didn't steal this technology. It was given to them — by the U.S. Department of Energy. First in 2017, as part of a sublicense, and later, in 2021, as part of a license transfer. An investigation by NPR and the Northwest News Network found the federal agency allowed the technology and jobs to move overseas, violating its own licensing rules while failing to intervene on behalf of U.S. workers in multiple instances.

Now, China has forged ahead, investing millions into the cutting-edge green technology that was supposed to help keep the U.S. and its economy out front.

Department of Energy officials declined NPR's request for an interview to explain how the technology that cost U.S. taxpayers millions of dollars ended up in China. After NPR sent department officials written questions outlining the timeline of events, the federal agency terminated the license with the Chinese company, Dalian Rongke Power Co. Ltd.

"DOE takes America's manufacturing obligations within its contracts extremely seriously," the department said in a written statement. "If DOE determines that a contractor who owns a DOE-funded patent or downstream licensee is in violation of its U.S. manufacturing obligations, DOE will explore all legal remedies."

The department is now conducting an internal review of the licensing of vanadium battery technology and whether this license — and others — have violated U.S. manufacturing requirements, the statement said.

Forever Energy, a Bellevue, Wash., based company, is one of several U.S. companies that have been trying to get a license from the Department of Energy to make the batteries. Joanne Skievaski, Forever Energy's chief financial officer, has been trying to get hold of a license for more than a year and called the department's decision to allow foreign manufacturing "mind boggling."

#batteries #battery technology

[naqati]

The Nissan Leaf: Affordable, High-Performing, and Supercharged Electric Vehicle

Nissan Leaf Cost, Range, Performance, and Supercharging Introduction The Nissan Leaf has been a game-changer in the electric vehicle (EV) market since its launch. With its impressive cost, range, performance, and supercharging capabilities, the Nissan Leaf has become a top choice for eco-conscious drivers around the world. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of the Nissan…

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#affordable #battery technology #cost-effective #driving experience #eco-friendly transportation #electric vehicle #EV #fast-charging #government incentives #home charging #maintenance #Nissan Leaf #performance #range #regenerative braking #supercharging #sustainability

[shreygoyal]

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The world's largest flow battery has started operation in Dalian, China with a capacity of 100 MW/400 MWh, and is designed to help the city handle its solar/wind intermittency with longer term grid storage ability than lithium-ion batteries.

(Source)

#Climate Change #renewable energy #wind energy #solar photovoltaic #battery technology #Climate Crisis #My Tweets

[sciencerevolution]

300% More Capacity: New Battery Technology Could Significantly Lower Energy Storage Costs

The battery has four times the energy capacity of lithium-ion batteries and is much cheaper to produce. The team used sodium-sulfur, a type of molten salt that can be extracted from seawater, to create the battery, making it a more cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

Using a simple pyrolysis process and carbon-based electrodes to improve the reactivity of sulfur and the reversibility of reactions between sulfur and sodium, the researchers’ battery has shaken off its formerly sluggish reputation, exhibiting super-high capacity and ultra-long life at room temperature.

#science #2023 #battery technology #chemical engineering #electrochemistry #renewable energy

[scienceandtechworld]

Aluminum batteries I believe will replace lithium due to lasting longer, charging faster, and being resistant to blowing up.

#chemistry #chem #battery #batteries #battery technology #aluminum #aluminium #lithium

[entertainment-and-you]

Breakthrough in Battery Technology: Sodium Battery Charges in Seconds

South Korea – Researchers at the Korean Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) have developed a new type of sodium battery that can be charged in just a few seconds. This is a significant breakthrough as traditional sodium batteries have suffered from slow charging times. Sodium is a much more abundant element than lithium, the metal currently used in most rechargeable batteries.…

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#Battery Technology #Electric Vehicles #KAIST #Rapid Charging #Renewable Energy #Sodium Battery #Supercapacitors #Sustainable Technology

[gauricmi]

A Deep Dive into Zinc-Air Battery Technology: Harnessing the Power of Zinc-Air Battery

Zinc-Air Battery technology has emerged as a promising contender in the field of energy storage, offering several advantages over traditional battery systems. In this blog post, we will explore the intricacies of Zinc-Air Battery technology and its potential to revolutionize the way we store and utilize energy.

Understanding Zinc-Air Battery Chemistry

At the heart of Zinc-Air Battery technology lies its unique electrochemical reaction, which involves the oxidation of zinc and the reduction of oxygen from the air.

This reaction generates electrical energy, making Zinc-Air Batteries an efficient and eco-friendly option for energy storage.

Unprecedented Energy Density

One of the most significant advantages of Zinc-Air Battery is their exceptional energy density.

Compared to other battery technologies, Zinc-Air Batteries can store a larger amount of energy per unit weight, making them ideal for applications requiring long-duration energy storage, such as electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage systems.

Renewable Energy Integration

Zinc-Air Batteries hold immense potential for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid.

Their high energy density and scalability make them well-suited for storing surplus energy generated from sources like solar and wind power, thus overcoming the intermittent nature of renewable energy production and enabling a smoother transition to a sustainable energy future.

Cost-Effectiveness and Accessibility

Zinc-Air Battery technology offers cost-effective energy storage solutions, thanks to its abundant and low-cost raw materials, such as zinc and air.

Additionally, Zinc-Air Batteries are relatively simple to manufacture and maintain, making them accessible to a wide range of applications, from consumer electronics to large-scale energy storage projects.

Get More Insights On This Topic: Zinc-Air Battery

#Zinc-Air Battery #Energy Storage #Renewable Energy #Battery Technology #Sustainable Energy #Innovation #Electrochemistry #Environmental Sustainability

[techdriveplay]

The Green Revolution: Eco-Friendly Cars and Their Benefits

Eco-friendly cars have emerged not just as a trend but as a necessity to combat environmental challenges and reduce our carbon footprint.

In the 21st century, the automotive industry has seen a significant shift towards sustainability, marking the advent of the green revolution. Eco-friendly cars have emerged not just as a trend but as a necessity to combat environmental challenges and reduce our carbon footprint. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of eco-friendly cars, highlighting their benefits, innovations, and the…

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#Advanced Aerodynamics #Affordable Electric Cars #Air Pollution Reduction #Automotive Innovation #autonomous driving #battery technology #Carbon Footprint Reduction #charging infrastructure #Chevrolet Bolt EV #Clean Energy #Clean Transportation Solutions #Eco-Conscious Consumers #Eco-Friendly Cars #Economic Benefits #electric vehicles #Environmental Impact #environmental stewardship #EV Tax Credits #Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles #Future Mobility Trends #Government Incentives #Green Automotive Technology #Green Revolution #Hybrid Electric Vehicles #Hydrogen Fueling #Hydrogen-Powered Vehicles #Hyundai Nexo #Instant Torque #Long-Term Savings #Luxury Electric Vehicles

[medicaldevicesindustrynews]

APAC Is Dominating Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries Market

In 2023, the market for vanadium redox flow batteries witnessed an approximate revenue of USD 401.2 million. Projected into the forecast period from 2024 to 2030, the market is anticipated to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.7%, ultimately reaching a valuation of USD 759.4 million by the end of 2030. UPS systems are becoming a vital component of offices, homes, sectors, and all…

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#applications #battery technology #clean energy systems #electric vehicle charging infrastructure #flexibility #grid stabilization #Growth opportunities #Key players #Market dynamics #market trends #Redox flow batteries #renewable energy storage #scalability #strategic collaborations

[reasonsforhope]

"A net-zero power system is closer than we think.

New research, published by RMI, indicates that an exponential surge in renewable energy deployment is outpacing the International Energy Agency’s most ambitious net-zero predictions for 2030. 

That’s right: Surging solar, wind, and battery capacity is now in-line with net-zero scenarios. 

“For the first time, we can, with hand on heart, say that we are potentially on the path to net zero,” Kingsmill Bond, Senior Principal at RMI, said. “We need to make sure that we continue to drive change, but there is a path and we are on it.”

And that’s really good news.

Exponential growth in renewable energy has put the global electricity system at a tipping point. What was once seen as a wildly daunting task — transitioning away from fossil fuels — is now happening at a faster pace every year. 

Based on this new research, conducted in partnership with the Bezos Earth Fund, RMI projects that solar and wind will supply over a third of all global electricity by 2030, up from about 12% today, which would surpass recent calls for a tripling of total renewable energy capacity by the end of the decade. 

Global progress in the renewable energy sector

China and Europe have been leading the way in clean energy generation, but the deployment of renewable energy has also been widely distributed across the Middle East and Africa. 

Research from Systems Change Lab shows that eight countries (Uruguay, Denmark, Lithuania, Namibia, Netherlands, Palestine, Jordan, and Chile) have already grown solar and wind power faster than what is needed to limit global warming to 1.5°C, proving that a swift switch to renewable energy is not only feasible — it’s entirely achievable. 

In order to make that switch, globally, wind and solar need to grow from 12% to 41% by 2030. Denmark, Uruguay, and Lithuania have already achieved that increase in the span of eight years.

Meanwhile, Namibia, the Netherlands, Palestine, Jordan, and Chile have grown solar and wind energy at sufficient rates for five years...

The economic impact of climate progress

Not only is this an exciting and unprecedented development for the health of the environment, but this rapid transition to clean energy includes widespread benefits, like jobs growth, more secure supply chains, and reductions in energy price inflation. 

This progress spans both developing and developed countries, all driven to accelerate renewables for a number of different reasons: adopting smart and effective policies, maintaining political commitments, lowering the costs of renewable energy, and improving energy security. 

And with exponential growth of clean energy means sharp declines in prices. This puts fossil fuels at a higher, uncompetitive cost — both financially and figuratively. 

RMI suggests that solar energy is already the cheapest form of electricity in history — and will likely halve in price by 2030, falling as low as $20/MWh in the coming years. This follows previous trends: solar and battery costs have declined 80% between 2012 and 2022, and offshore wind costs are down 73%."

-via Good Good Good, July 12, 2023

Let me repeat that:

For the first time in history, we are on an actual, provably achievable path to net zero emissions

#electricity #renewable electricity #renewable energy #net zero #climate crisis #fossil fuels #wind power #solar power #battery technology #uruguay #denmark #lithuania #namibia #netherlands #palestine #jordan #chile #global development #good news #hope

[kp777]

Swedish Company Says It's Made Huge Battery Breakthrough

#battery #sodium ion battery #battery technology #high capacity battery

[this-user-is-sus]

See this?

This is a lithium coin cell. Lithium as in the same element that is in EV batteries and electric bike batteries. They're in toys, electronic candles, key fobs, etc.

Lithium can start fires if mishandled. For god's sake, Tumblr, do NOT run off screaming that your electric candle is going to burn down the house. What I mean is that they SHOULDN'T be thrown in the trash. If they get smashed, they can cause fires in garbage trucks or at the landfill.

You can search for recycling or hazardous materials drop-off near you, or big box stores often have a drop point for batteries.

Plus, recycling lithium is a lot better for the environment than mining it.

#recycling #climate change #batteries #battery technology #I didn't know this until about 2 years ago #so I want to pass the knowledge on #psa

[pureevindia]

#battery technology #electric vehicles #lithium ion batteries #Ev Industry

[market-insider]

Exploring the Evolution of the Plastic Battery Containers Market in Modern Energy Storage

The global plastic battery containers market size is expected to reach USD 28.90 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. It is projected to expand at a CAGR of 6.7% from 2022 to 2030. The growing number of electric vehicles and the rising renewable industry around the world are the factors expected to drive the growth. Plastic battery containers are used in power backup, telecom, and valve-regulated lead acid battery (VLRA) among others. Plastic battery containers hold the battery plates, cast-on straps, and electrolytes and reduce the impact of vibration and improve the battery lifecycle.

Plastic Battery Containers Market Report Highlights

Lead acid dominated the battery segment with a share of more than 49% in 2021 and is expected to maintain a healthy growth rate over the forecast period

The growing demand for electric and hybrid vehicles is expected to drive the demand for plastic battery containers over the forecast period

Polypropylene (PE) led the resin segment with a revenue share of more than 73% in 2021 due to its better functional properties as compared to other resins

For More Details or Sample Copy please visit link @: Plastic Battery Containers Market Report

Growing renewable energy development around the world has increased the demand for battery energy storage systems (BESS). These systems are available in a wide range of storage and power capacity and can serve small-scale household devices to large-scale systems used for industrial applications and utilities. According to International Energy Agency, the number of electric vehicles sold in 2021 was 6.6 million which accounts for ten percent of global car sales.

The total number of electric cars in the world reached around 16.5 million, which is triple the number in 2018. The demand for electric cars is strong in 2022 with two million cars sold in the first quarter, up seventy-five percent from the same period in 2021. This rapid growth in electric vehicles is going to drive the plastic battery container market over the forecast period.

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war have disrupted the supply chains worldwide, and heavily impacted the automotive industry. Because of this reason, the market may experience lesser growth in the short term. However, in the long term, corporate and government efforts to decarbonize transportation are providing strong support for the growth in EV sales which in turn will drive the plastic battery container market.

BatteryContainers #PlasticEncasements #EnergyStorage #SustainablePower #BatteryTechnology #PlasticInnovation #GreenEnergy #EcoFriendlyContainers #BatteryEncasement #PlasticBatteryHousing #PowerStorage #RenewableEnergy #BatteryInnovation #PlasticTech #SustainableMaterials #CleanEnergyStorage #BatteryDesign #PlasticPowerSolutions #EnvironmentallyFriendlyBatteries #AdvancedEnergySystems

#Battery Containers #Plastic Encasements #Energy Storage #Sustainable Power #Battery Technology #Plastic Innovation #Green Energy #Eco-Friendly Containers #Battery Encasement #Plastic Battery Housing #Power Storage #Renewable Energy #Battery Innovation #Plastic Tech #Sustainable Materials #Clean Energy Storage #Battery Design #Plastic Power Solutions #Environmentally Friendly Batteries #Advanced Energy Systems