This lithium battery electrolyte can double range of EVs
What's the story
Chinese scientists have developed a revolutionary electrolyte that could significantly enhance lithium batteries. The new hydrofluorocarbon-based electrolyte can work efficiently at room temperature and in extreme conditions. According to a research team from Shanghai and Tianjin, batteries made with this innovative electrolyte have over twice the energy density of those made with conventional electrolytes when operating at room temperature.
Extreme performance
Electrolyte works efficiently at -70°C
The new electrolyte isn't just efficient at room temperature, it also works well in extreme cold. The research team found that batteries made with this hydrofluorocarbon-based electrolyte can work efficiently even at a temperature of -70 degree Celsius. This breakthrough could lead to longer-lasting lithium batteries that are more suited for different operating temperatures and conditions, including powering electric vehicles (EVs) across climates and even space missions.
Technological advancement
Findings published in 'Nature' journal
The research team published their findings in the peer-reviewed journal Nature. They noted that hydrofluorocarbon electrolytes provide a "promising pathway to break the power and energy density ceiling of batteries." Li Yong, a researcher at the Shanghai Institute of Space Power-Sources (SISP), said this new technology could increase the room temperature energy storage capacity of lithium batteries by two to three times.
Range extension
It could boost range of EVs
The new electrolyte technology could also significantly extend the range of electric vehicles. Li Yong told Science and Technology Daily that with this new technology, the range of EVs could be increased from 500-600km to an impressive 1,000km. This is a huge leap forward in battery technology and could revolutionize the EV industry by making them more efficient and reliable.