The Race for Sustainable Batteries: New Chemistries for Energy Storage

Today, most battery-powered devices run on lithium-ion batteries. From smartphones to EVs, they power everything. Advancements in lithium-ion batteries have occurred in recent years. Still, more cutting-edge developments are taking place in the realm of energy storage that utilises completely different materials, enhancing the sustainability and efficiency of energy storage. 

New chemistries for energy storage are an exciting field for BSc Chemistry students from the top universities of India. They can leverage their knowledge of the discipline to develop new solutions or further advancements in the field.

Sustainability is a top priority worldwide, and energy storage is a significant area of improvement in the journey towards a greener future. Considering its significance, it is vital to take a closer look at why the race for sustainable batteries is essential, what innovations are on the horizon, and how the government, scientists, and the top universities of India can contribute to winning this race.

The Need for Newer Energy Storage Technologies

While lithium-ion batteries have their fair share of advantages — from storing a large amount of energy to lasting long periods—they also have drawbacks.

Lithium-ion batteries have fire risks and are made of cobalt, nickel, and magnesium, not sustainable materials. This is the primary reason behind the race to sustainable batteries. The ubiquity and utility of batteries and their expanding usage with the rise of EVs have also pushed scientists to innovate.

This is a dynamic and intriguing field for BSc in Chemistry students looking to contribute towards sustainability. As one of the top universities of India, Manipal University Jaipur has cutting-edge research facilities and labs that allow students to study vital technologies like energy storage.

Let's look at contemporary innovations that could completely transform energy storage as we know it today.

Sustainable Alternatives to Lithium-Ion Batteries

1. Solid-State Batteries

Solid-state batteries are one of the cutting-edge innovations in energy storage. They promise a more compact battery while also packing more power. This could be incredible for EVs, extending their range significantly. They are also believed to be safer, unlike lithium-ion batteries, which are known to pose a fire risk.

Solid-state batteries also last longer, with up to seven times more recharges during their lifetime. This will significantly reduce waste, enhancing their sustainability.

The top universities of India are at the forefront of innovation in this field, establishing labs and designing courses to foster the next generation of innovators who will build more efficient and sustainable energy storage.

2. Cobalt-Free Lithium Batteries

As the name suggests, these batteries do not contain cobalt, an expensive and difficult-to-mine material. However, alternatives to cobalt are still being tested. Switching to cobalt-free lithium batteries will take time, and the top universities of India must develop cutting-edge labs and curricula that contribute to creating innovative technologies that promise real-world utility.

3. Lithium-Sulfur Batteries

Lithium-sulfur batteries are more efficient than lithium-ion batteries, promising greener energy storage solutions. The sulfur in this battery's cathode is more sustainable than the nickel and cobalt used in lithium-ion batteries. This is a massive plus in the current context when the sustainability of materials is a priority.

These batteries could revolutionise the energy storage industry as sulfur is more abundant and affordable, possibly making these more accessible.

However, there are roadblocks to adapting these on a large scale, as corrosion is an issue with this new technology. Students graduating with a master's or bachelor's in chemistry have the requisite knowledge to address problems like these, facilitating the adoption of this revolutionary technology.

4. Iron-Air Batteries

Iron-air batteries work by using air to oxidise iron to produce energy. Through reverse oxidation, the iron is reverted to its original state during recharge. Due to the ubiquity and affordability of iron, these batteries could completely transform storage, holding up to 100 hours of charge at a tenth of the cost.

Powering the Future: Why Efficient Energy Storage is Crucial

The race to sustainable batteries is especially vital in India, where air pollution is a significant issue estimated to kill over a million people annually. IQAir research states that its cities have an average 500% higher level of particle pollution (PM2.5) in the atmosphere than what is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO). This demonstrates the importance of finding sustainable and affordable alternative energy sources.

Given the burgeoning population and the resulting high demand for vehicles, India has recently prioritised green mobility. However, the shift to EVs requires efficient energy storage that is accessible and affordable, even in developing countries. The emerging technologies mentioned above could make EVs more affordable and sustainable.

There is a dire need for sustainable mobility options, especially in India. The country's health and long-term prosperity depends on it. That is why the best universities of Rajasthan, like Manipal University, Jaipur, make sustainability a prime focus in their programmes, whether the discipline is science, humanities, or engineering.

As part of its commitment to sustainable development goals, Manipal University Jaipur offers numerous programmes geared towards sustainable and modern energy sources, like-

• Electric Vehicle Technology
• Electric Drive
• Energy Storage Devices
• Renewable Energy Resources
• Utilisation of Electric Power
• Environmental Impact Assessment

The initiatives taken by the government, private companies, and the top universities of India will be a defining factor in winning the race to sustainable batteries.

Conclusion

India must lead the charge as the world progresses towards a greener future. According to research conducted by the Delhi government and IIT Kanpur, vehicular pollution is estimated to be around 38% of the total pollution in India's capital. This indicates that efficient energy storage and affordable EVs are a necessity, not an option, for India. The recent innovations and interest in the field are encouraging, and scientists must continue to prioritise sustainability in their research going forward. There has to be an effort on the part of the top universities of India to foster future scientists who are not only proficient but also guide the country on the path to a sustainable future.