Amidst the prevailing challenges of a Lithium supply crisis and sustainability concerns, Calcium metal batteries have emerged as a viable and sustainable alternative. Recent advancements in Calcium-ion battery technology are clearing the path for their commercial adoption.
Researchers at Tohoku University in Japan have developed a prototype Calcium battery with high capacity and extended cycle life.
In the earlier research in 2021, members of the current research group tackled the challenge by creating a new fluorine-free calcium electrolyte based on a hydrogen cluster. This electrolyte showcased impressive electrochemical performances, including high conductivity and notable electrochemical stability.
Building upon that research, the new progress involves the evaluation of a Ca metal battery with a copper sulfide (CuS) nanoparticle/carbon composite cathode and a hydride-based electrolyte.
CuS implementation presents a promising solution due to its favorable electrochemical properties, particularly its layered structure, which enables it to store various cations such as lithium, sodium, and magnesium. Additionally, CuS exhibits a substantial theoretical capacity of 560mAh g-1, surpassing the present cathode materials used in lithium-ion batteries by two to three times.
Kazuaki Kisu, an assistant professor at Tohoku University’s Institute for Materials Research (IMR), highlighted the long-term operation of this battery configuration.
The conceptualization of the Calcium-ion battery revolves around its abundant resources and low-cost properties. Theoretically, Calcium batteries could offer a higher energy density potential compared to LIBs. Calcium’s unique properties additionally enable faster ion transport and diffusion. However, the development of an electrolyte with optimal performance for Calcium-ion batteries remains an engineering hurdle.
The new developments underscore the advancements made in Calcium battery research, demonstrating the potential of the new electrolyte and the utilization of CuS as a cathode material in enhancing the performance and energy storage capabilities of Calcium-based systems.
New research opens the door for large-scale Calcium-ion production, thus bringing it close to commercial visibility. These lighter, safer, more efficient, and cheaper batteries can be used in electronic devices like phones, cameras, laptops, and electric cars. Calcium batteries also offer a game-changing solution for the future of energy storage.
