Chinese scientists invent ‘water battery’ with higher energy storage than lithium cells

Chinese scientists have developed a water-based battery that contains nearly double the energy density of traditional lithium batteries. This innovation holds promise for potential useinelectric vehicles.

The research, published in a paper in Nature Energy on April 23 by the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), outlines the iodine and bromine-based aqueous battery's impressive energy density of 1200 watt-hours per litre (Wh/L), surpassing the 700Wh/L of non-aqueous lithium batteries.

Additionally, the researchers also spoke aboutthe safety advantages of their aqueous battery over non-aqueous lithium batteries, which are known for their high flammability.

The stable battery “shows promising potential for the development of next-generation high-energy-density and safe rechargeable aqueous batteries”, the researchers wrote, as quoted by the South China Morning Post (SCMP).

Their findings “may expand aqueous battery applications in the power battery field”, said corresponding author Li Xianfeng, a professor at the CAS Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics, who was quoted in a statement from the academy.

How are lithium batteries different from aqueous batteries?

Lithium batteries are popular all around the world because they can hold a large amount of energy. In the past, these batteries used a liquid that could easily catch fire to function.

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Aqueous batteries use a water-based electrolyte, which means they don't have the same safety concerns. Despite this advantage, these batteries usually have lower energy density, meaning they store less energy per unit of weight or volume, compared to non-aqueous batteries, as noted by the team.

(With inputs from agencies)