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New liquid alloy electrode significantly lowers operating temperature of sodium-beta batteries; improved performance

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Researchers at Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL) have devised an alloying strategy that enables sodium-beta batteries to operate at significantly lower temperatures. The new electrode enables sodium-beta batteries to last longer, helps streamline their manufacturing process and reduces the risk of accidental fire.

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IBC demonstrates highly selective high-yield direct lithium extraction from Salar de Maricunga brine

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The Pilot Plant has undergone validation testing and begun Phase One operation, the results from which demonstrate highly selective, high-yield direct lithium extraction from brine and high water efficiency. SuperLig 285 is highly selective for Li over other brine constituents including magnesium, calcium, sodium, potassium and boron.

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Univ. of Texas researchers propose lithium- or sodium-water batteries as next generation of high-capacity battery technology; applicable for EVs and grid storage

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Example of a lithium-water rechargeable battery. Researchers at the University of Texas, including Dr. John Goodenough, are proposing a strategy for high-capacity next-generation alkali (lithium or sodium)-ion batteries using water-soluble redox couples as the cathode. The present sodium-sulfur battery operates above 300 °C.

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Researchers develop all-weather solar cell that generates power from rain as well as from sun

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While many technical advances have made solar cells more efficient and affordable, a disadvantage remains in the fact that solar cells produce no power when it’s raining. c), d) The operational principle of the flexible solar cell under sunlight. 2016) “A Solar Cell That Is Triggered by Sun and Rain.” mV and 7.17

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Caltech engineers devise new thermochemical cycle for water splitting for H2; recyclable, non-toxic, non-corrosive and at lower temperatures

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The thermochemical production of hydrogen and oxygen from water via a series of chemical reactions is of interest because it directly converts thermal energy into stored chemical energy (hydrogen and oxygen), and thus can take advantage of excess heat given off by other processes. —Xu et al. NaMnO 2 at 850 °C; Na + extraction from ?-NaMnO

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New mesoporous crystalline Si exhibits increased rate of H2 production; potential use in Li-ion batteries also

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The nanosized crystalline primary particles and high surface areas enable an increased rate of photocatalytic hydrogen production from water and extended working life. They then treat the material with a sodium potassium alloy. Micrograph of mesoporous silicon with sodium chloride and potassium chloride salts embedded in the matrix.

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DOE awards Cummins $5M for automation of electrolyzer cell and stack assembly

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Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers use a solid polymer electrolyte, and alkaline electrolyzers use an electrolyte solution, such as potassium hydroxide or sodium hydroxide mixed with water. When any type of electrolyzer is powered by renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar or hydro, it produces “green” hydrogen.

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