Viennese technicians and Spanish scientists have developed a ‘super battery’ for the storage of wind and solar energy. The new technology has many advantages – and one disadvantage. Can it prevent the devastating consequences of a possible large-scale power outage?
Everything indicates that the new battery is indeed an important step in advancing the energy transition. We are talking about the ceramic-based oxygen-ion battery that researchers from the Vienna University of Technology have developed together with colleagues from Spain.
This “super battery” is intended to store excess electricity from solar or wind systems and build reserves for dark or windless times. If used in sufficient numbers, they can reduce the risks of blackouts and, ideally, make homes or residential complexes energy self-sufficient until the public electricity grid is operational again.
The advantages of the new technology also sound convincing to laymen: the battery has an extremely long life. And unlike the lithium-ion batteries commonly used today, it doesn’t require materials that are rare, expensive or toxic.
In addition, the ceramic must prevent fire accidents. In lithium-ion batteries, the cells can burst due to damage, overcharging and overheating. And make a fire.
Not suitable for smartphones or e-cars
There’s one blemish, though: the oxygen battery currently only manages a third of the energy density of its lithium counterparts. So it is suitable for smartphones and electric cars (not yet?). Well as electricity storage device for residential complexes, hospitals etc.
The prerequisite for this is industrial mass production. “We now have a prototype and want to further optimize it,” explains Alexander Schmid of the TU research team. Means: more storage capacity, faster loading and unloading.
The patent has already been applied for. The clear goal is serial production. The industry has already shown interest. Congratulations to the dedicated scientists of the Vienna University of Technology!
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
