Energy innovation is making spectacular headway with a recent discovery that promises to transform the future of batteries. This technological breakthrough could well revolutionize our everyday lives by significantly extending the life of battery-powered devices. At a time when electronic devices occupy a central place in our lives, this new technology offers exciting prospects for reducing waste and improving energy efficiency.
The implications of this discovery are vast, affecting both consumers and industries. Discover how this innovation could redefine our relationship with energy and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
Benefits and operation of zinc-air batteries
Zinc-air batteries (ZABs) are positioning themselves as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, thanks to their superior theoretical energy density, enhanced safety and reduced cost potential. Operating by reacting oxygen in the air with zinc, they offer a lighter solution, less prone to overheating or combustion.
However, their development has been hampered by a slow oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), limiting their efficiency and lifespan. Researchers at Tohoku University have recently designed a double-atom catalyst, combining iron and cobalt, which could revolutionize this technology by significantly improving the performance of ZABs.
A major technological breakthrough with the Fe₁Co₁-N-C catalyst
Led by Professor Di Zhang, the Tohoku University team has developed an innovative double-atom catalyst, integrating iron and cobalt atoms in a porous nitrogen and carbon structure. This material, named Fe₁Co₁-N-C, optimizes the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) through computational modeling that adjusts pH levels for alkaline conditions.
Outperforming conventional platinum catalyst, this new catalyst enabled zinc-air batteries to achieve an open-circuit voltage of 1.51 volts and an energy density of 1,079 Wh kgZn-¹. This promising performance paves the way for longer-lasting, more economical batteries.
Economic implications and future prospects
The use of iron and cobalt in the Fe₁Co₁-N-C catalyst offers significant economic advantages over platinum, due to their increased availability and lower cost. This accessibility could facilitate the large-scale production of zinc-air batteries, making this technology more affordable. The research team plans to refine the atomic pairs to further improve the catalyst’s efficiency.
By optimizing these technologies, the researchers hope to boost the performance of electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. This breakthrough could transform the energy landscape, offering more sustainable and cost-effective storage solutions, essential for a successful energy transition.
