Xanthan gum is a commonly used ingredient in cosmetics and personal care products, imparting a shine to lotions throughout the day.
Derived from plants, this sugar surprise serves as a thickening agent, stabilizer, and emulsifier in creams, lotions, and various beauty products, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture while managing oils and accommodating diverse textures from airy mousse to creamy dream.
Xanthan Gum for Battery Electrodes
In a recent development at a research university in South Korea, xanthan gum has found a novel application.
A research team at Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH) has pioneered a groundbreaking technology utilizing xanthan gum to create a protective shield for battery electrodes rather than for the skin. This inventive approach enhances the durability and efficiency of zinc-ion batteries, showcasing the versatile application of xanthan gum beyond cosmetics.
Novel Application in Energy Storage Systems (ESS)
As the importance of energy storage systems (ESS) grows with the intermittent nature of renewable sources like solar power, there is a focus on alternatives to expensive and potentially depleting lithium-ion batteries.
The emergence of zinc (Zn) as a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries
Zinc (Zn), an abundant element on Earth, is emerging as a promising alternative for efficient ESS applications, signaling a shift towards sustainable solutions in renewable energy. However, achieving a consistent deposition of zinc on the electrodes in ESS batteries is a challenging task as repeated charging cycles often result in twig-like crystal formation on the zinc surface, diminishing the battery’s lifespan.
This innovative approach of using xanthan gum to craft a protective film resulted in efficient zinc deposition, preventing the formation of harmful crystals during repeated charging and discharging cycles.
Impressively, the protective film maintained stability even after 200 days of repeated charging and discharging, highlighting its potential to enhance the longevity and performance of zinc-ion batteries in ESS applications.
