Water-based battery breakthrough promises safer, cheaper storage

Researchers at the University of Alberta have developed a breakthrough in water-based (aqueous) rechargeable batteries by redesigning the electrode structure, significantly enhancing their performance. Traditionally, aqueous batteries—such as the lead-acid battery—have been limited by low energy density, voltage, and storage capacity, preventing their use in electric vehicles or large-scale renewable energy storage. The new "pressurized organic electrodes" improve chemical reactivity, electrical conductivity, thermal stability, mechanical strength, and adhesion, enabling faster charging, longer lifespan, and higher energy storage that now surpasses most other organic batteries. This advancement positions aqueous batteries as a safer, cheaper alternative to lithium-ion batteries, which, despite their advantages, carry risks like flammability and higher costs. The University of Alberta team has successfully demonstrated the technology in small coin cells and larger prototypes but acknowledges that scaling up remains a challenge. They are currently seeking industry partners to commercialize the technology for industrial energy storage and potentially electric vehicle applications, aiming to provide a safer