Energy Density: Graphene batteries exhibit a higher energy density than lithium batteries, giving them an edge in maximizing energy storage capacity. Charging Speed: Graphene batteries excel in fast charging capabilities, significantly outperforming lithium batteries regarding charge acceptance and reduced charging times.
Intuitively, it makes no sense. Graphite and lithium have the same market drivers, lithium-ion battery demand fueled by a massive escalation of electric vehicles, as countries move further along the road to electrification and decarbonization. Both are benchmark-priced in China, the largest market for electric vehicles.
It’s thought that battery demand could gobble up well over 1.6 million tonnes of flake graphite per year (out of a 2020 market, all uses, of 1.1Mt) — only flake graphite, upgraded to 99.9% purity, and synthetic graphite (made from petroleum coke, a very expensive process) can be used in lithium-ion batteries.
Environmental Friendliness: Graphene is a carbon-based material, and its use in batteries promotes environmental sustainability. Graphene batteries offer a cleaner and greener alternative to specific battery chemistries that rely on toxic elements. Part 2. What is a lithium battery?
High Energy Density: Lithium batteries are known for their impressive energy density, allowing them to store a significant amount of energy in a compact form. This characteristic makes them ideal for applications where size and weight are crucial factors, such as smartphones and laptops.
However, as technology advances and economies of scale kick in, graphene batteries may become more cost-competitive. Maturity and Availability: The market has widely adopted lithium batteries, establishing mature infrastructure and supply chains for this technology.