These next-generation batteries may also use different materials that purposely reduce or eliminate the use of critical materials, such as lithium, to achieve those gains. The components of most (Li-ion or sodium-ion [Na-ion]) batteries you use regularly include: A current collector, which stores the energy.
The three primary constituents of the battery are aluminum (left), sulfur (center), and rock salt crystals (right). All are domestically available Earth-abundant materials not requiring a global supply chain. Credit: Rebecca Miller
The components of most (Li-ion or sodium-ion [Na-ion]) batteries you use regularly include: A current collector, which stores the energy. Solid-state batteries use solid electrolyte solutions, which don’t need a different separator. That makes them safer because they are less prone to leakage from damage or swelling in hot temperatures.
In addition, alternative batteries are being developed that reduce reliance on rare earth metals. These include solid-state batteries that replace the Li-Ion battery’s liquid electrolyte with a solid electrolyte, resulting in a more efficient and safer battery.
Researchers at the University of Birmingham have taken these challenges one step further, by tasking themselves with the objective of ‘upcycling’ recovered battery materials, so the waste streams from current EV batteries can be used to manufacture new high-performance batteries.
It is then sieved, cleaned and dispatched to battery-makers to produce so-called NMC battery cells. The exact methods used at Nysa are complex and highly proprietary. Visitors and staff are relieved of their phones along with other items, including jewellery (some of the equipment uses sensitive magnetic forces).