Russian Scientists Develop Affordable Base for Next-Generation Metal-Ion Batteries

In a significant breakthrough, Russian theoretical chemists have discovered a new class of materials that could serve as an economical foundation for metal-ion batteries. These innovative batteries utilize magnesium, zinc, aluminium, and other non-alkaline metal ions for energy storage. This development, supported by the Russian Science Foundation (RNF), offers a promising avenue for reducing battery costs while enhancing capacity.

The discovery emerged from an extensive study of over 1,500 chemical compounds, focusing on their potential as bases for multivalent metal-ion batteries. These batteries are distinguished by their use of ions from metals like aluminium, magnesium, and zinc, which can lose up to three electrons, in contrast to the single oxidation degree ions of lithium and other alkali metals. The transition to these metals could drastically lower battery production costs and improve energy storage capabilities.

Leading the research, Artem Kabanov, a senior researcher at Samara State Technological University, and his team identified a particular structural class of crystalline materials, La3CuSiS7, showcasing exceptionally high cationic conductivity. These substances demonstrated ionic conductivity rates 10 to 100 times higher than their analogues, positioning them as superior candidates for battery bases.

The study's findings pave the way for the accelerated development of next-generation batteries. The team's immediate goal is to synthesize these compounds experimentally to verify their properties and, subsequently, to assemble a prototype battery.