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Sub-Zero temperature batteries
Context:
Recently, experts from the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have developed a battery that functions efficiently in sub-zero temperatures, benefiting both armed forces and civilians in high-altitude areas.
Overview of the Batteries:
- The battery combines an efficient, durable cathode catalyst with an anti-freezing electrolyte, specifically designed for zinc-air batteries.
- It is intended for use in remote areas where conventional batteries may fail due to extreme cold.
- Material and Technology: CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute synthesised a cathode material integrating cobalt and iron-based alloy with nanoparticles. The hybrid structure enhances durability and demonstrates high efficacy in both liquid and solid-state zinc-air batteries under sub-zero temperatures.
- Advantages: The battery’s portable, flexible, and lightweight design makes it ideal for military personnel and everyday consumers in challenging environments. It promotes energy independence in harsh climates and remote areas.
Energy Storage Challenges & Alternative Solutions::
- The rising demand for power emphasises the need for efficient energy storage systems.
- Traditional lithium-ion batteries are limited by heavy cathode materials, restricting energy density. Metal-air batteries are a promising alternative, using lighter metals like sodium, potassium, magnesium, aluminium, zinc, and iron.
- Electro-catalytic techniques, including water splitting and fuel cells, offer low-carbon alternatives but face issues with energy generation rates and complex interfaces.
- High-efficiency heterogeneous catalysts are needed to overcome these challenges, improving material usage, design simplicity, energy utilisation, and device integration.
Difference Between Lithium and zinc-based batteries:
- Lithium batteries use lithium compounds for both anode and cathode; zinc batteries use zinc anodes and manganese dioxide cathodes with an alkaline electrolyte.
- Energy Density: Lithium batteries have higher energy density, zinc batteries are heavier and less reactive, leading to lower density.
- Battery Lifespan: Lithium batteries last longer and endure more charge cycles; zinc batteries degrade faster under stress.
- Power Output: Lithium batteries deliver higher power output; zinc batteries are suited for low-power applications.
- Zinc-based batteries are comparatively cheaper due to the abundance of zinc.
- Lithium batteries are comparatively more prone to overheating and fires.
- Zinc batteries are more environmentally friendly due to easier recycling and lower toxicity; lithium batteries pose greater environmental challenges.
- Energy Storage Technology Grading: Energy storage technologies are categorised into several systems, which fall into five main types:
- mechanical, electrochemical (or batteries), thermal, electrical, and chemical storage technologies