The Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) has teamed up with Hindustan Zinc Limited (HZL) to develop new variants of zinc materials and accelerate the commercialization of zinc-based batteries. This collaboration aims to promote indigenous Zn-ion battery technologies, which are seen as a cost-effective and high-performance alternative to the more expensive, imported lithium-ion batteries.
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) highlighted that these zinc-ion batteries could play a crucial role in providing low-cost, grid-scale energy storage solutions and other related applications in India. The partnership between JNCASR and HZL was recently formalized through a memorandum of understanding.
The DST noted that Premkumar Senguttuvan’s research group at JNCASR has made significant advancements in zinc-based battery technology, thanks to a battery characterization facility funded by the DST. The collaboration between JNCASR’s research expertise and Hindustan Zinc’s product innovation is expected to lead to the development of new zinc alloys for use as anodes in Zn-ion batteries and the creation of modified electrolytes that could enhance the safety and lifespan of these batteries.
JNCASR’s team also plans to demonstrate Zn-ion pouch batteries, which can be easily scaled up for large-scale commercial applications. Hindustan Zinc aims to position itself at the forefront of the battery revolution, supporting the global energy transition by offering innovative new product solutions.
The partnership also aligns with two key Sustainable Development Goals: SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG13 (Climate Action). The collaboration is a significant step towards ensuring access to sustainable energy and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. 
