Zinc-based batteries, particularly zinc-hybrid flow batteries, are gaining traction for energy storage in the renewable energy sector. For instance, zinc-bromine batteries have been extensively used for power quality control, renewable energy coupling, and electric vehicles. These batteries have been scaled up from kilowatt to megawatt capacities.
A zinc-nickel battery (ZNB) was developed to compare with lead-acid battery. The application potential of ZNB for electric vehicles was demonstrated. ZNB has been successfully integrated with energy storage systems. The cost account of ZNB is calculated to compare with lead-acid battery.
In this regard, zinc-based batteries got tremendous attention as its less reactive nature makes it safe, while low cost and high energy density make it affordable. Recently, considerable work has been done on various battery chemistries by utilizing zinc as a charge storing agent.
Zinc-ion batteries typically use safer, more environmentally friendly aqueous electrolytes than lithium-ion batteries, which use flammable organic electrolytes. Significant progress has been made in enhancing the energy density, efficiency, and overall performance of zinc-based batteries.
Charles Q. Choi is a Contributing Editor for IEEE Spectrum. Not only could rechargeable zinc-based batteries possibly store as much energy as lithium-ion batteries, they could also be safer, cheaper, smaller and lighter, new research finds.
Zinc battery types are distinguished by their cathode materials and electrolytic charge carriers. Zinc-air batteries work with oxygen from air and have the potential to offer the highest energy densities. Zinc-flow batteries could enable large scale battery storage.