Researchers have invented a new lithium-ion battery that recharges in just a couple of minutes, a huge step forward for all technology, especially larger ones, such as cars.

The new battery material is encased in a coating that allows it to charge and discharge its power much faster than existing models. It’s construction is also lighter and packed with more power than anything else on the market.

Current competition is developed from lithium iron phosphate, and although good at storing large amounts of electricity, they lack the ability to release it with a steady flow.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology researchers Byoungwoo Kang and Gerbrand Ceder found the problem; essentially, the lithium ion had trouble crossing the particle surface to an entry point to be able to transport the electrons to their destination. Ceder describes this in layman’s terms: “It’s sort of like a big house with just one small door,” he told the CBC.

By reformatting the material (pictured right), they are developing ways to improve it’s efficiency.

The report, which appeared the British journal Nature, explained that this new technology would allow a cellphone battery to take only about 10 seconds to charge, and, in theory, a plug-in hybrid electric car would take about 5 minutes, as opposed to the 6-8 hours it currently needs. But Kang and Ceder also point out that the charge would inhale the needed electricity faster than would be available.

The new lithium-ion does not degrade when charged and recharged, unlike the others that are currently distributed.

Kang and Ceder  are continuing to build on their research, and hope to work it into the marketplace within the next two to three years.

Source: cbc.ca

SubscribeRelated Articles and Favorite Reads

TECHNOLOGY | Plugging into a bright future - literally FITNESS | Prehistoric fitness - going back to the basics DESIGN | IKEA lighting goes solar-powered with SOLIG TECHNOLOGY | Perf Power's new Eco-Alkaline batteries