High-energy batteries define the future. They contain easily accessible components.

This element, which is much more accessible than the commonly used nickel and cobalt, could revolutionize the energy storage market. MIT representatives are behind the latest advance, and they detailed their concept at Energy of nature.

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The need for efficient ways to store energy is unquestionable. Electric cars are becoming more popular, and the share of energy coming from renewable sources is increasing. However, it needs to be stored, which is where efficient batteries come in handy. Using turbulent rock salt cathodes, engineers from the United States have made their battery extremely useful.

Batteries containing manganese ensure high energy density while maintaining cycle stability. This is a combination we rarely see.

The cathode the researchers used is a proprietary design known as DRXPS. Its implementation results in high energy density at high voltages. All this while improving cycle stability, which had previously been a serious problem. This is a significant achievement, as the research team members emphasize that they usually have to choose between energy density and cycle stability. Here they were able to combine these two advantages.

Instead of expensive nickel and cobalt, the scientists chose manganese, which is more readily available and therefore cheaper. Compared to nickel, it is about 5 times cheaper, while it is up to 30 times more economical than cobalt. According to the same parties involved, the amazing aspect of the experiments was the introduction of the right amount of phosphorus. Under such conditions, polyanions form with neighboring oxygen atoms in the rock salt structure, which is deficient in cations.

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The progress made should have a significant impact on the state of the battery market. These devices are very useful today and could impact the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies such as photovoltaics and wind turbines. We can only wait for more news from the authors.