The team at Argonne National Labs has made a significant breakthrough in the field of sodium-ion batteries by developing a new cathode material. This innovative cathode, a layered oxide specifically designed for sodium-ion batteries, is a variation of the NMC cathode. The new cathode, a sodium nickel-manganese-iron (NMF) oxide, has a layered structure that allows for efficient insertion and extraction of sodium. The absence of cobalt in the cathode formula addresses issues related to cost, scarcity, and toxicity associated with this element.
The Advantages of Sodium-Ion Batteries
The team’s focus on sodium-ion batteries is driven by the numerous benefits they offer. Two of the most significant advantages are sustainability and cost-effectiveness. Sodium is far more abundant and easier to mine than lithium, making it a much cheaper option. It is also less prone to price fluctuations or disruptions in the supply chain. According to estimates by the team, a sodium-ion battery would cost about one-third less than a lithium-ion battery.
In addition to sodium, the cathode material primarily contains iron and manganese. Both of these elements are globally abundant and not considered endangered.
Performance and Potential Applications
Sodium-ion batteries also have the advantage of maintaining their charging capability even in sub-zero temperatures. This addresses a significant drawback of existing lithium-ion batteries. The design of sodium-ion batteries closely resembles that of lithium-ion batteries, which means that the technology for battery management and manufacturing is already in place.
The team’s cathode has a higher energy density compared to other sodium-ion technologies. This makes it capable of powering electric vehicles for a driving range of approximately 180-200 miles on a single charge.
The team is also exploring the development of different materials for the two other main components of a battery — the electrolyte and anode — to further enhance energy density.
Apart from transportation, sodium-ion batteries have another potential application in the storage of renewable energy for use in an electric grid. In this context, the weight of the battery is less of a concern, and the ability to operate at low temperatures is a significant advantage. The market for grid batteries is rapidly expanding.
About the Author
Brian Wang is a renowned Futurist Thought Leader and a popular Science blogger with a monthly readership of 1 million. His blog, Nextbigfuture.com, is the top-ranked Science News Blog. It covers a wide range of disruptive technologies and trends, including Space, Robotics, Artificial Intelligence, Medicine, Anti-aging Biotechnology, and Nanotechnology.
Wang is known for identifying cutting-edge technologies. He is currently a Co-Founder of a startup and a fundraiser for high-potential early-stage companies. He is also the Head of Research for Allocations for deep technology investments and an Angel Investor at Space Angels.
He is a frequent speaker at corporations and has been a TEDx speaker, a Singularity University speaker, and a guest at numerous interviews for radio and podcasts. He is open to public speaking and advising engagements.
