One of the main obstacles to mass adoption of electric vehicles remains the so-called "range anxiety" – the fear that the vehicle might run out of power while on the road, leaving the driver without quick recharging options. But new research from Florida International University (FIU) could fundamentally change the situation.
Researchers are working on revolutionary lithium-sulfur batteries that can increase the driving range of electric vehicles threefold – up to 1,000 miles without recharging. Additionally, they are cheaper, lighter, and less harmful to the environment than traditional lithium-ion batteries.
What distinguishes new batteries from existing ones?
- Range – increasing mileage from 300 to 1000 miles.
- Cost – such batteries could be nearly half the price of lithium-ion counterparts.
- Durability – they withstand more charge cycles, eliminating the need to replace the battery throughout the vehicle's lifespan.
- Environmental friendliness – they use sulfur, a byproduct of the oil industry, reducing the need for extracting scarce metals.
Scientific breakthrough: platinum as a catalyst
Despite their advantages, lithium-sulfur batteries previously had a critical drawback – they degraded quickly and lost capacity. However, Professor Bilal El-Zakhab and his team found a solution.
How does it work?
Scientists added platinum to the battery composition. It acts as a "traffic regulator," directing the flow of energy inside the accumulator. This helps reduce energy losses and improves charging efficiency.
Economy and accessibility
- Cost reduction
Currently, lithium-ion batteries cost about $100 per kilowatt-hour, whereas lithium-sulfur batteries could potentially cost $60 per kilowatt-hour. This will decrease the overall price of electric cars, making them more accessible. - Lighter weight – longer tire life
Since new batteries are twice as light, electric vehicles will cause less wear on tires and other components, which will also reduce maintenance costs.
When will the technology be available?
FIU has already received $4 million in investments from the Canadian company Lion Battery Technologies. Commercial production is expected to start by 2030, although the technology still requires further refinement.
Competition for the “ideal battery”
FIU is not the only laboratory working on alternatives to lithium-ion batteries:
- Purdue University is experimenting with recycled plastic to extend the lifespan of sulfur batteries.
- Researchers from Australia have applied a chemical catalyst based on polyvinylpyrrolidone to stabilize batteries.
It is expected that by 2030, global automakers will spend over $500 billion on the development of electric transport and battery technologies.
Conclusion
Lithium-sulfur batteries are the future of electric transport. They are cheaper, lighter, and more environmentally friendly than traditional lithium-ion batteries. A range of up to 1000 miles will eliminate “range anxiety” and make electric vehicles even more attractive to the mass consumer. Commercialization is expected within the next decade, which could significantly transform the entire electric transport industry.
