In an effort to challenge the supremacy of lithium-ion batteries, which power laptops, electric cars, and smartphones, the nation’s first large-scale plant for producing sodium-ion batteries was opened on Monday close to Michigan’s western coast.
June is when Natron Energy Inc. intends to begin shipping.
Businesses elsewhere are also researching sodium-ion technology in the hopes that its advantages over lithium would allow it to compete in the rapidly expanding battery industry.
A nearly $20 million federal grant helps to fund Natron’s Holland, Michigan factory. In an effort to establish a domestic supply chain for essential renewable energy technologies, the Biden administration is supporting a wave of new battery facilities in the United States.
In comparison to their lithium-ion siblings, sodium-ion batteries have advantages. They have a quicker rate of release, giving off brief but powerful bursts. Sodium is a plentiful and affordable raw material for them.
Moreover, cobalt, which is mostly sourced from mines suspected of exploiting child labor, is not needed for sodium-ion batteries. And the corporation says there’s no fire risk.
The drawback is that lithium-ion batteries have a higher energy density than sodium-ion batteries, meaning they can store more energy in a less amount of space. While not a perfect storage solution, this feature has made lithium-ion batteries adaptable.
Source – https://m.economictimes.com/small-biz/sustainability/sodium-batteries-from-michigan-to-challenge-lithiums-grip/amp_articleshow/109711686.cms
