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Japanese experts from the University of Okinawa presented a prototype of a lithium-sulfur rechargeable battery that is suitable for electric vehicles. The new moment in this battery is the sponge material used, which increases the stability of power supplies of this type. The first working prototype withstood 200 recharging cycles without losing its initial capacity. The developers specifically emphasize that lithium-sulfur battery packs can increase the mileage of electric vehicles by 60%.
In theory, lithium-sulfur batteries offer a higher energy density than lithium-ion batteries, and they also charge faster. But so far, lithium-sulfur batteries have not been suitable for commercial products due to their instability. Until now, the key components of these batteries have worn out quickly, and the batteries themselves have become unusable because they quickly lose their capacity during use. Japanese scientists have avoided these shortcomings with the help of new hybrid material.
During operation of this type of battery, the chemical reaction between lithium and sulfur creates lithium polysulfide, which has a strong negative impact on the characteristics of the battery and its technological life. In an ideal lithium-sulfur battery, lithium polysulfide should be rapidly converted to lithium sulfide or lithium persulfate. This process is now possible thanks to the use of a porous material of carbon nanotubes.
The test version of this rechargeable battery stably withstands 200 charge and discharge cycles. Work on the new power supply continues.
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