It's time to see beyond lithium-ion - glass

batteries are the new powerhouse in town

Tony V Morris, Johan Joe Panjikkaran, Sarath Manikandan

Fourth Semester, Department of Chemical Engineering

From smartphones to electric cars, lithium-ion batteries have long been the
preferred power source for a wide range of electronic gadgets. With their high
energy density, low self-discharge rates, and long cycle lives, they have
revolutionised the world. They do have their limitations, though. First, there
are safety issues with lithium-ion batteries, such as overheating and fires,
which have in the past resulted in significant damage. Secondly, the lithium-ion
battery is not environmentally friendly; it contains toxic, flammable, and non-
biodegradable components such as cobalt. Additionally, they have limited
capacity, which means they can only store a small amount of energy at once,
and they take a long time to charge fully. These limitations have led scientists
to search for alternatives, and it seems that glass batteries are becoming
increasingly popular because of their potential to address several of lithium-ion
batteries' shortcomings.

The fact that glass batteries can store more energy than conventional lithium-
ion batteries is one of their main advantages. This is because unlike liquid
electrolytes, which are currently utilised in the majority of lithium-ion
batteries, glass electrolytes have a higher ionic conductivity. Additionally,
compared to their lithium-ion equivalents, glass batteries have the ability to
charge significantly more quickly. This is why they can conduct energy with
considerably less resistance and tolerate higher temperatures without the risk
of combusting. Additionally, glass batteries have the potential to survive up to
three times as long as lithium-ion batteries. Overall, glass batteries offer a
promising substitute for conventional lithium-ion batteries for a variety of
applications

Glass batteries may have a big impact on a variety of industries, including

transportation, aviation, and renewable energy. Glass batteries' high energy
density enables longer-lasting and quicker-charging electric vehicles, which
might completely change the transportation industry. Glass batteries can also
be produced utilising plentiful and inexpensive ingredients, doing away with
the toxicity and flammability of conventional lithium-ion batteries. In addition
to increasing energy storage capacity, the use of glass batteries in renewable
energy systems can facilitate a more seamless transition to a more sustainable
energy future. The creation of a more effective and environmentally friendly
system in the energy sector may result from the development and
commercialization of glass batteries.

Glass batteries have a bright future in energy storage because they have a
number of benefits over conventional lithium-ion batteries. Glass batteries
have a lower risk of starting a fire and are more environmentally friendly
because they are made of sodium and can be recycled. Furthermore, they are
a desirable option for a variety of applications, including electric vehicles and
grid-scale energy storage, because to their high energy density and quicker
charging and discharging times than conventional batteries. Glass batteries are
still in the research and development stage, but recent developments at the
University of Texas have yielded encouraging findings, indicating that they
might soon establish themselves as a major force in the energy storage
industry. Overall, they offer a competitive option to lithium-ion batteries due
to their potential for sustainability, safety, and high performance.