This new graphene-based battery can stop EVs from bursting into flames – The Next Web

Lithium-ion batteries have transformed the EV industry, but they dont come without their disadvantages. You know, like the fact theysometimes cause EVs to burst into flamesand explode.

LA startup Nanotech Energy claims to have found a way to eliminate this concern once and for all: a fireproof, graphene-based lithium-ion battery. And if this battery can do what its promised, were talking about a true game changer.

Graphene is a single layer of carbon atoms, with a bunch of remarkable physical properties: its ultrathin, incredibly strong, superconductive, and cheap.

It was first discovered by in 2004 by two researchers at the University of Manchester, who managed to extract and isolate it from graphite. Although we reached out to the researchers for this article, they unfortunately declined to comment.

Nanotech has developed graphene electrodes, namely, the batterys positive (cathode) and negative (anode) terminal.

According to the company, graphenes flexibility means that it can withstand the volume changes of the battery electrodes during charge and discharge. This reduces the chances of an internal short circuit, which can potentially lead to fire.

Whats more, graphene is an excellent conductor of electricity, which helps the battery maintain a lower internal resistance simply, the ability to maintain a lower internal temperature. As as result, it provides an efficient solution to overheating during charging, which is another potential cause of fire.

The electrolyte is a vital part of a lithium-ion battery, as it transfers lithium ions between the two electrodes during charge and discharge.

But its the batterys most flammable component.

Most electrolytes in use today involve dissolving a lithium salt in a liquid material composed primarily of linear and cyclic chain carbonates. Basically, molecules that involve a carbon atom attached to three oxygen atoms. These liquids are typically flammable, and can be volatile and unstable when exposed to high temperatures.

Nanotech has developed a proprietary electrolyte solution, called OrganoLyte, that is stable, made from inexpensive materials, easy to manufacture and, of course, is non-flammable.

While no specifics have been disclosed, the name suggests the material still centers around organic chemistry. Weve reached out to the company to know more about it, and well update the article when we have more information to share with you.

Nanotech has run a series of tests to demonstrate that its graphene-OrganoLyte battery shows enhanced thermal stability and eliminates the risk of fire.

In the short video below, the company conducts a nail abuse test and a heating test at 180 degrees Celsius. In both, the standard lithium-ion battery used instantly catches fire, while the graphene battery remains unharmed.

Testing has yielded some impressive results: the battery maintains performance at extreme temperatures (-20 to 60 degrees Celsius), it holds charge at temperatures as high as 176 degrees, and wont catch fire when penetrated with a nail, or heated to more than 704 degrees.

But more than that, Nanotech also claims that its battery is extremely powerful. Namely, it retains more than 80% of its rated capacity through 1,400 cycles, and can charge 18 times faster than anything that is currently available on the market.

Plus, the companys new batteries can be completely personalized to fit any form factor or container and can be used for consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and any electrified machines.

I guess, thats why Nanotechs batteries won the CES 2022 Innovation Award.

Nanotechs non-flammable lithium-ion batteries are set to be manufactured at a newly announced production plant in Nevada, scheduledto open in the fourth quarter of 2022.

I expect that initial production will focus on the consumer electronics market, as the batteries application in automotive use would require further durability, reliability, and safety testing. This might take some extra few years and Im really looking forward to see the battery in action.

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This new graphene-based battery can stop EVs from bursting into flames - The Next Web