Tag: battery technology

  • Chinese Researchers Develop New Method to Extend Lithium-Ion Battery Life Sixfold

    Chinese Researchers Develop New Method to Extend Lithium-Ion Battery Life Sixfold

    Key Takeaways

    1. New method can extend lithium-ion battery lifespan by over six times.
    2. Discovery of trifluoromethyl sulfonate lithium as an effective lithium carrier.
    3. Treated batteries can maintain performance for 12,000 charging cycles with minimal decline.
    4. Implementation requires battery design for electrolyte replenishment and gas venting.
    5. Environmental benefits include reduced electronic waste and lower reliance on lithium extraction.

    A new method for repairing batteries developed by researchers from China has the potential to extend the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries by more than six times. This innovation could significantly change how durable electric vehicles and mobile devices are. The research, published in the journal Nature, focuses on injecting a special solution that revives aged batteries to levels close to their original performance.

    Discovery of a New Lithium Carrier

    Over a span of four years, experts in macromolecular science at Fudan University—Gao Yue and Peng Huisheng—identified a new lithium carrier named trifluoromethyl sulfonate lithium. This molecule is effective in replenishing lost lithium ions in older batteries and works well with various battery types and electrolytes.

    Impressive Laboratory Results

    The lab tests yielded remarkable results: a commercial lithium iron phosphate battery, after being treated, could keep its original performance for 12,000 charging cycles. This is a stark increase from the typical lifespan of 2,000 cycles. Even more striking, the treated battery exhibited only a four percent decline in performance after 11,818 cycles. In comparison, a regular electric vehicle battery usually experiences a 30 percent capacity reduction within roughly 2.7 years of similar charging patterns.

    Requirements for Implementation

    For this technology to be effective, batteries must be designed with components that allow for the replenishment of electrolytes and the safe venting of gases. In the rejuvenation process, the compound breaks down to release lithium ions, which subsequently reconnect with the electrode material, while also producing gaseous byproducts that need to be properly vented.

    Environmental Benefits

    This advancement could significantly benefit the environment, as it not only prolongs battery life but also reduces electronic waste and reliance on lithium extraction. Fudan University states that the solution is cost-effective and ready for scaling. The research team is currently collaborating with leading global battery manufacturers to accelerate the process of commercialization.

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, this innovation marks a major transition from conventional battery designs, leading to more sustainable battery technologies in the industry. However, additional testing and regulatory approvals are essential before this groundbreaking solution can be widely adopted.

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  • Realme GT 8 Pro May Feature Huge 8,000mAh Battery: Report

    Realme GT 8 Pro May Feature Huge 8,000mAh Battery: Report

    In November, Realme unveiled the GT 7 Pro in China, showcasing a powerful 6,500mAh battery within a slim 8.55mm profile. This impressive feat is attributed to the new silicon-carbon anode battery technology, which combines silicon and carbon to produce a high-energy-density battery that lasts longer.

    Future Plans for the GT 8 Pro

    The company is not stopping here and is looking to break new ground with its upcoming flagship, likely called the GT 8 Pro. According to tipster Digital Chat Station, Realme is exploring three different battery choices for this model, all promising substantial capacity but with varying charging speeds.

    Battery Options Explained

    Among the options, the most ambitious is an 8,000mAh battery that would offer outstanding endurance but would necessitate slower 80W charging. This slower charging method could take as long as 70 minutes to fully recharge. Another option is a 7,500mAh battery paired with 100W charging, which would strike a more balanced approach between capacity and speed, expecting charging times of about 55 minutes. Lastly, there is a consideration for a 7,000mAh battery featuring 120W charging. This would still provide good battery life while allowing faster charging, with an estimated time of around 42 minutes.

    Looking Ahead

    Though these insights come from leaks and might change, if they hold true, the GT 8 Pro could significantly excel in battery performance. With the expected energy-efficient Snapdragon 8 Elite processor, next year’s flagship devices could achieve multi-day battery life. However, more detailed information is still to come.

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  • Food Acids: The Future of Lithium-Ion EV Battery Power

    Food Acids: The Future of Lithium-Ion EV Battery Power

    A recent advancement in battery technology from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) aims to tackle two major challenges—energy storage and sustainability. A team of researchers, headed by Professor Neeraj Sharma, has created a lithium-ion battery prototype that swaps out conventional graphite electrodes for materials derived from food acids like tartaric and malic acid, which are often found in fruits and during winemaking.

    Eco-Friendly Innovations

    This innovative approach not only enhances energy storage capabilities but also offers a greener solution. The significance of using food acids lies in their availability from food waste, which minimizes reliance on harmful substances. By opting for a water-based method, the production process of these batteries becomes cleaner and more sustainable overall.

    A Shift in Battery Materials

    For a long time, lithium-ion batteries have been essential for energy storage. However, the traditional production methods—like using mined graphite—are expensive and damaging to the environment. By exploring options derived from food waste, the UNSW team is presenting a fascinating alternative. Just think about it—batteries could become more affordable and sustainable in the future, facilitating a smoother shift towards renewable energy worldwide.

    Future Prospects

    The research is still in progress, with aspirations to increase production capacity and enhance the technology for broader uses. This could enable applications beyond just lithium-ion batteries, including sodium-ion systems. Such developments may influence industries that increasingly depend on energy storage, like electric vehicles and large renewable energy initiatives.

    UNSW Newsroom.

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  • New Solid-State Battery Extends Phone & Wearable Battery Life

    New Solid-State Battery Extends Phone & Wearable Battery Life

    TDK Corporation, a prominent Japanese enterprise, specializes in manufacturing, distributing, and selling electronic components and devices. Renowned for its advanced magnetics technology, TDK is the leading global provider in this sector. Last year, the company achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first component manufacturer in India to produce iPhone batteries.

    Breakthrough in Solid-State Battery Technology

    Recently, TDK Corporation has announced a groundbreaking development in solid-state battery materials, achieving an energy density 100 times greater than their previous models.

    This remarkable increase in energy density implies that more energy can be stored in a smaller space within a device. This advancement promises substantially longer battery life for compact, battery-powered gadgets like smartphones and wearables, including TWS earbuds, smartwatches, and smart rings.

    The new solid-state battery boasts an energy density of 1,000 Wh/L, a massive leap from the energy density of TDK’s earlier solid-state batteries. TDK has credited this achievement to the incorporation of oxide-based solid electrolytes and lithium alloy anodes. The company plans to enhance the battery capacity further through multi-layer lamination technology and extend the operating temperature range by leveraging the production engineering expertise they have accumulated in the electronic components industry.

    Safety and Environmental Impact

    TDK ensures that these new high-energy density solid-state batteries are safe to use. The employment of oxide-based solid electrolytes significantly enhances the safety of these batteries. The company’s primary focus is to integrate these advanced high-density batteries into compact wearable devices. Additionally, TDK aims to replace traditional, non-rechargeable coin cell primary batteries, aligning with EU battery regulations that mandate rechargeable batteries. This innovation is expected to contribute to reducing the environmental impact.

    By developing this groundbreaking battery technology, TDK Corporation is poised to revolutionize the compact electronics market, offering longer-lasting, safer, and more environmentally friendly power solutions.

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  • Xiaomi 14 Ultra Battery Size Confirmed for Enhanced Durability vs. 13 Ultra

    Xiaomi 14 Ultra Battery Size Confirmed for Enhanced Durability vs. 13 Ultra

    Tomorrow (Feb. 22), Xiaomi is set to unveil the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro during a significant launch event in China. The upcoming 14 Ultra is expected to bring several enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra, which was introduced last year. Recent updates shared on Xiaomi’s Weibo account reveal that the new device will boast improved durability and a larger battery capacity.

    Xiaomi 14 Ultra: Enhancements in Durability and Battery Size

    The Xiaomi 14 Ultra is equipped with a 5,300mAh battery, marking a 17 percent increase in battery life from the previous model. Despite the boost in battery capacity, the volume of the battery has been reduced by 8 percent. Utilizing the latest silicon carbon anode technology, Xiaomi’s battery achieves a silicon content of up to 6 percent, offering the highest energy density of 779Wh/L among its competitors.

    The fast-charging capabilities of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra are yet to be officially confirmed by the company. However, leaks suggest that the device will support 90W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and reverse wireless charging.

    Enhanced Durability Features

    Xiaomi emphasizes the improved durability of the 14 Ultra, stating that its middle frame is twice as resistant to bending, the screen is ten times more drop-resistant, and the back panel, crafted from Kona leather, is six times more resistant to wear compared to the 13 Ultra model. The brand has also revealed that the device has obtained SGS five-star durability certification.

    The Xiaomi 14 Ultra will be available in color options such as black and white, with official images hinting at a leather back for these variants. Additionally, rumors suggest that a blue variant may feature a ceramic back. Speculations are circulating that the highest configuration of the device will offer a special titanium frame option.

    Xiaomi 14 Ultra Battery Size Confirmed for Enhanced Durability vs. 13 Ultra

    These anticipated upgrades in battery life, durability, and design elements make the Xiaomi 14 Ultra a compelling device to watch out for in the competitive smartphone market. Stay tuned for the official unveiling of the Xiaomi 14 Ultra and the Xiaomi Pad 6S Pro at Xiaomi’s launch event.

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  • Electric Vehicle Innovation Ignites with Opening of FAW-BYD Battery Plant

    Electric Vehicle Innovation Ignites with Opening of FAW-BYD Battery Plant

    A groundbreaking venture has made its mark in Changchun, Jilin Province, as the first phase of the FAW Fudi New Energy Power Battery Project rolls into action. This project, born from the collaboration between China FAW Group Co., Ltd. and BYD Co., Ltd., signifies a bold step into the future of new energy vehicles, setting the stage in the Changchun Automobile Economic and Technological Development Zone. What makes this venture stand out is not just its location—it’s the pioneering spirit that underpins the first strategic base for new energy vehicle power batteries in Northeast China.

    First Phase of FAW Fudi New Energy Power Battery Project

    The project has a huge budget of 18 billion yuan

    Established in early 2022, FAW Fudi New Energy Technology Co., Ltd. sprawls over 370,000 square meters, boasting a construction space that nearly matches its vast area. With an ambitious budget of 18 billion yuan, the project’s sights are set high, aiming for a staggering 45GWh production capacity across three phases. Each phase is designed to contribute 15GWh, powering the drive towards innovation and sustainability.

    BYD’s Cutting-Edge Blade Battery Technology

    The initial products emerging from this powerhouse are set to electrify the market, equipped with BYD’s cutting-edge blade battery technology. This innovation promises a triple threat of safety, endurance, and longevity, tackling the common challenges faced by power batteries head-on. The design philosophy here is clear: efficiency and integration without compromising on module flexibility.

    Impressive Sales Figures and Future Products

    January’s figures speak volumes about the momentum behind this initiative, with FAW Hongqi’s sales skyrocketing by 82.9% year-on-year. The spotlight shines brightly on Hongqi’s new electric jewels, the EH7 sedan, and EHS7 SUV, both poised to redefine medium and large electric vehicles. Despite sourcing batteries from CATL and FAW for these models, the venture’s future products promise to bring something fresh to the table.

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  • Rivian Plans to Launch Affordable Battery Pack in 2024, Aiming to Reduce R1 Series Prices

    Rivian Plans to Launch Affordable Battery Pack in 2024, Aiming to Reduce R1 Series Prices

    Rivian, a prominent player in the electric vehicle (EV) industry, is making significant advancements in battery technology that could potentially reshape the dynamics of the EV market. Claire McDonough, the company's Chief Financial Officer, recently announced plans to introduce a new battery pack for its R1 series vehicles in 2024. This strategic move by Rivian aims to enhance its product offerings and capture a larger market share.

    A Breakthrough in Battery Design and Manufacturing

    The new battery pack, which is separate from the Standard pack also scheduled for a 2024 release, represents a breakthrough in Rivian's approach to design and manufacturing. McDonough highlighted the simplified structure of this battery, which is expected to be lighter, cost-effective, and easier to produce. These innovations not only demonstrate technical achievements but also strategic tactics that can potentially reshape Rivian's position in the market.

    Balancing Innovation and Affordability

    Rivian's focus on battery technology brings to light a crucial aspect of the EV industry: the balance between innovation and affordability. With the introduction of the Standard pack, which will bring the starting price of R1 vehicles to the low $70,000 range, the new battery pack has the potential to further reduce costs. This could potentially bring the price below $70,000, making electric mobility more accessible to a wider consumer base. Rivian's entry into this segment poses a challenge for competitors, as the company aims to establish itself as a leader in the premium EV market.

    Commitment to Seamless Innovation

    McDonough's mention of a temporary halt in assembly lines in the second quarter of 2024 for the integration of these new batteries demonstrates Rivian's commitment to seamless innovation. The plan to introduce three different battery packs, two drive units, and a new network architecture reflects a future where customization and consumer choice are paramount in the EV market. As other companies also strive to expand their presence in the EV industry, Rivian's ability to adapt and innovate will determine its success in this competitive space.

    In conclusion, Rivian's plans to introduce a new battery pack for its R1 series vehicles in 2024 showcases the company's dedication to advancing battery technology and enhancing its product offerings. With a focus on innovation and affordability, Rivian aims to capture a larger market share and establish itself as a leader in the premium EV market. The future of Rivian in this rapidly evolving industry remains to be seen, but its commitment to seamless innovation positions the company for success.

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