Articles tagged with Energy Storage
Researchers from Shanghai Polytechnic University developed new efficient phase change microcapsules for storing solar energy, demonstrating superior photothermal conversion and thermal conductivity. The study found that the novel PCM microcapsule shells showed a 54.9% photothermal conversion efficiency, significantly higher than non-do...
A University of Houston professor has developed a nonreciprocal solar energy harvesting system that surpasses the thermodynamic limit and clears the way to use solar power 24/7. The new system can achieve significant efficiency boosts, paving the way for practical applications in power plants.
A new Stanford study found that widespread home electric vehicle charging at night could strain the US western grid by up to 25% by 2035. The researchers recommend daytime charging at work or public stations to reduce peak demand and greenhouse gas emissions.
Researchers at Boise State University and Argonne National Laboratory create high-performance battery electrode material with a unique crystalline structure. The material shows promise for fast charging and excellent storage capacity, potentially overcoming significant shortcomings in lithium-ion batteries.
Researchers at Linköping University used computer simulations to show that stable aromatic molecules can become reactive after absorbing light. This could enable new ways to control photochemical reactions using the aromaticity of molecules.
ORNL researchers have won seven 2022 R&D 100 Awards for their advancements in materials science, machine learning, and energy storage. DuAlumin-3D, a high-strength aluminum alloy, and Gremlin, an AI system to identify weaknesses in machine learning models, are among the winning technologies.
Researchers at MIT have developed a new kind of battery using abundant and inexpensive materials, offering a potential solution for large-scale backup power systems. The battery's molten salt electrolyte has been shown to prevent dendrite shorting, a common reliability issue in lithium-ion batteries.
A new study by Boston University School of Public Health found that decarbonization pathways need to incorporate more efficient electric heating technologies and renewable energy sources to minimize strain on the US electric grid. The researchers analyzed building energy data from March 2010 to February 2020 and found that winter heati...
The US Department of Energy has selected six new science and technology innovators to advance game-changing clean energy technologies through the Innovation Crossroads program. The startups will receive support from world-class experts and unique capabilities at Oak Ridge National Laboratory.
A team of scientists has designed a system that uses water, CO2, and sunlight to produce synthetic kerosene, which can power long-haul commercial flights. The design has been implemented in the field, and its efficiency is around 4%, with plans to improve it to over 15%.
Researchers have developed microsupercapacitors that can be integrated onto stone tiles, enabling high-performance and customizable power from natural building materials. The devices maintain a high energy storage capacity even after multiple charge-discharge cycles.
Researchers at Lawrence Berkeley Lab have found a way to generate an alternative jet fuel by harvesting an unusual carbon molecule produced by soil-dwelling bacteria. The fuel, which works similarly to biodiesel, has the potential to be powerful enough to send a rocket into space.
Researchers used an isomer beam to study isomer depletion in a low gamma-ray background environment. They found no evidence of isomer depletion and measured the excitation probability at less than 2×10^−5, consistent with theoretical calculations.
Researchers developed a mathematical model that brings together physics and chemistry involved in dendrite formation, suggesting swapping new electrolytes with certain properties could slow or stop dendrite growth. The study aims to guide the design of lithium-metal batteries with longer life span.
A new study found that farmers can increase farm revenues and double net profitability by harvesting 30% of corn stover for biofuel production. Removal of the stover also mitigates greenhouse gas emissions, but reduces soil carbon content. The approach could help US agriculture reach its goal of net zero emissions.
Harvard researchers develop new method to extend the lifetime of organic molecules in organic aqueous flow batteries, improving their commercial viability. The approach works by periodically providing a shock to revive decomposed molecules, resulting in a net lifetime increase of up to 260 times.
Researchers developed a bumpy carbon-based material that maintains rechargeable storage capacity down to -31 F, improving lithium-ion batteries' performance in freezing temperatures. The new material enables electric cars to drive longer and reduces the risk of battery failure in extreme cold.
Scientists designed novel hard carbon anodes with controlled defects, pore structures, and cation doping to boost sodium storage capacity. The optimized materials showed improved rate capability, cycling stability, and energy density. Introducing potassium ions regulated the microstructure and surface functionality of the anodes.
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory have made significant advancements in recovering rare earth metals, developing safer batteries, and enhancing material properties through tailored molecules and advanced microscopy. These discoveries could lead to more efficient clean energy technologies and reduced carbon impacts.
A new study suggests achieving a 50% reduction in US greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 is possible through increasing renewable capacity and transitioning to electric vehicles. This would limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, aligning with the UN's climate target.
Researchers have found a way to perform hydrogen atom transfer reactions with fewer chemicals and less cost, making it more efficient for industrial and academic settings. The new method uses electrochemistry to create cobalt hydride catalysts, reducing the need for expensive oxidants and reductants.
Researchers develop a new optimization model integrating electricity and hydrogen systems to evaluate the potential value of long-duration energy storage (LDES) in a net-zero grid. The integration of LDES technologies reduces overall annual cost of the electricity grid by tens or hundreds of millions of pounds.
Concentrated solar power (CSP) plants use wet cooling methods to dissipate waste heat, but this can lead to significant water loss. A new study developed a radiative cooling system with cold storage that reduces water consumption by up to 85% in hot regions.
The study reveals significant information on the thermal properties of electric double-layer capacitors, which can help create safer and more reliable energy storage devices. The research team found that charging and discharging alter the heat capacity of EDLCs, leading to a decrease in capacitance.
Researchers overview properties and disadvantages of cathode materials, focusing on metal-based compounds and carbon-based materials. Modification methods, including surface treatment and decoration, are discussed to enhance performance of Br-FBs.
Researchers at MIT and NREL have designed a thermophotovoltaic cell that converts heat to electricity with over 40% efficiency, surpassing traditional steam turbines. The new design could enable a fully decarbonized power grid by storing excess energy from renewable sources.
Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have successfully converted solar energy into electricity using a thermoelectric generator. The new technology can store solar energy for up to 18 years and release it when needed, making it a promising solution for renewable energy production.
The 'freeze-thaw battery' can store energy for months without significant loss of capacity, making it a key step towards seasonal energy storage. The battery uses molten-salt and common materials to achieve this, with the potential to enhance grid resilience during severe storms or power outages.
A recent study by Uppsala University has identified the main limitations in lithium-sulfur batteries, which are hampered by short lifetimes and energy loss. The research aims to develop new strategies and materials to improve battery performance, making them more suitable for heavy truck applications.
Researchers at North Carolina State University have developed a way to prevent short-circuiting in yarns designed to store energy by wrapping them with an insulating thread. The findings could advance the development of smart textiles that capture energy from wearer's movements and power sensors.
Researchers have discovered the opto-ionic effect, where light increases the mobility of ions in ceramic materials, improving the performance of devices such as solid-state electrolytes in fuel cells and lithium-ion batteries. This effect could lead to higher charging speeds and more efficient energy conversion technologies.
Scientists at the University of Groningen have designed a new type of flow battery that stores power in a simple organic compound. This breakthrough addresses the limitations of traditional flow batteries, which contain rare metals and are expensive.
Argonne scientists are developing new materials for batteries, researching sustainable fuels, and expanding carbon-free energy sources like nuclear power. They're also exploring ways to capture and utilize CO2, with the goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and slowing global warming.
Researchers propose a disaggregation strategy to estimate power consumption of individual electrical facilities, improving accuracy over traditional methods. The new approach uses linear regression residuals and clustered daily routines to provide more accurate estimations for workdays and holidays.
New research suggests nuclear power can provide low-cost energy and replace natural gas as a backup source, enabling faster decarbonization in countries with poor wind resources. The analysis found that nuclear is the cheapest way to eliminate all electricity-system carbon emissions nearly everywhere.
Magnesium-based batteries offer a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, with several significant advantages. However, developing cost-effective and high-performance batteries requires further research on electrolyte development, anode design, and cathode structure.
Researchers have discovered a new solid electrolyte composed of lithium, scandium, indium, and chlorine that offers several advantages. The electrolyte conducts lithium ions well but electrons poorly, making it suitable for all-solid-state batteries with improved safety and energy density.
Dudney's pioneering work in solid-state battery materials has led to the development of high-performance, long-lasting batteries with improved safety and performance. Her innovations have been licensed by 24 companies and recognized globally as a role-model in energy storage materials research.
Researchers at City University of Hong Kong have discovered a super-elastic high-entropy Elinvar alloy that retains its stiffness even after being heated to 1000 K. The alloy's unique structure and chemical composition allow it to store a large amount of elastic energy, making it suitable for high-precision devices in aerospace enginee...
Researchers at Surrey and the Federal University of Pelotas developed a low-cost, environmentally friendly way to produce flexible supercapacitors. The new technology can significantly extend the lifespan of Internet of Things devices, such as smartwatches and fitness trackers.
Researchers at Tokyo Institute of Technology have created a hydrogen-rich lanthanum hydride that shows high hydride ion conductivity even at room temperature. The material's unique properties make it an ideal candidate for efficient chemical reactors and energy storage systems.
Researchers at NIMS and Softbank Corp. have created a lithium-air battery with an energy density of over 500 Wh/kg, significantly higher than existing lithium-ion batteries. The new battery can be charged and discharged at room temperature, showcasing the highest energy densities and best cycle life performances achieved.
Researchers at Georgia Institute of Technology have developed a new water-splitting process and material that maximize the efficiency of producing carbon-free green hydrogen. The hybrid catalysts show superior performance for both oxygen and hydrogen splitting, making it an affordable and accessible option for industrial partners.
Researchers at the University of Bristol have developed high-performance sodium and potassium ion batteries using sustainably sourced cellulose. The new battery technology outperforms comparable systems and uses a sustainable material, offering great potential for large-scale applications in electric vehicles and energy storage grids.
Researchers discovered a way to revitalize rechargeable lithium batteries by mobilizing inactive lithium towards electrodes, increasing capacity and lifespan. This process, which involves applying an extra step during charging, slowed degradation and increased lifetime by nearly 30%.
Researchers developed P-/Sn-based composites with high-capacity and stability anode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The study reveals a new approach to produce cost-effective and scalable solutions.
A new method of predicting battery failure has been developed, showing accuracy 15-20% higher than current approaches. The technique uses advanced probabilistic machine learning and is applicable to any battery with a simple electrical circuit model.
Researchers highlight importance of digital microscale electrochemical energy storage devices in building a fully connected and intelligent world. They discuss design principles, material selection, and fabrication processes for these devices, which are crucial for seamless integration with various electronic systems.
Researchers at NTU Singapore have developed biodegradable zinc batteries made of cellulose paper that can power flexible electronics and biomedical sensors. The batteries are non-toxic, do not require aluminum or plastic casings, and can be buried in soil to break down within weeks.
Researchers from Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Georgia Institute of Technology, and the University of California, Berkeley, describe advances in understanding phase change materials for thermal energy storage. Better understanding liquid state physics may help accelerate technology development for the energy sector.
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have developed a flexible and washable battery that can withstand repeated use and laundry cycles. The battery's construction creates an airtight seal and uses safer chemistry, making it suitable for wearable devices worn next to the skin.
Researchers at the University of Texas at Austin have developed a new sodium-based battery material that overcomes the dendrite problem in earlier sodium batteries. The new material recharges as quickly as a traditional lithium-ion battery and has a higher energy capacity than existing sodium-ion batteries.
Researchers developed a novel lithium-containing crosslinked polymeric material, LiGL, which exhibits exceptional protection effects on lithium metal anodes. The material achieves superior cycling stability, even after over 20,000 Li-stripping/plating cycles without failures.
A comprehensive review of similarity theory in PEMFC research reveals its potential to accelerate progress. The study highlights the benefits of using dimensionless analysis to compare results and reduce testing efforts. However, challenges remain in developing integrated performance criteria.
Researchers evaluate various technologies for extracting lithium from hot, saline brines, facing technical challenges due to high heat and dissolved minerals. The Salton Sea region in California is identified as a major domestic source of lithium, with the goal of developing environmentally friendly 'green' lithium sources.
Scientists from City University of Hong Kong successfully developed battery-like electrochemical Nb2CTx MXene electrodes with stable voltage output and high energy density. The findings break the performance bottleneck of MXene devices, exhibiting superior rate capability, durable cyclic performance, and high energy density.
An international research team led by Jennifer L. Schaefer has analyzed the potential of magnesium-ion-conducting solid polymer electrolytes in two separate battery systems. The study found that these electrolytes exhibit higher thermal, mechanical, and electrochemical stability compared to traditional liquid electrolytes, making them ...
Researchers developed a molecular compound that serves as a low-cost electrolyte for redox flow batteries, enabling stable operation and high capacity retention. The compound overcomes limitations of previous electrolytes by increasing its hydrophilicity and conductivity.
Researchers developed new materials with enhanced adsorption capabilities, promising advancements in hydrogen storage, oil spill cleanup, and sensor development. The polymerization mechanism and kinetics were analyzed, revealing a significant impact of solvation on reactivity.
Researchers found that combining resource diversification, excess generation, building efficiency, and demand flexibility can reduce or eliminate long-duration energy storage in some regions. This approach enables the achievability of a fully renewable system with technology building blocks accessible today.