Prof. Premkumar Senguttuvan’s group at JNCASR has been at the forefront of zinc-based battery research. Their state-of-the-art battery characterisation facility, funded by the Department of Science and Technology (DST), has made significant advances in the field. The research has attracted the interest of Hindustan Zinc Limited, a leading player in the zinc industry.
Features
Zinc-ion batteries present a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries, primarily due to the lower cost and greater availability of zinc. The batteries also offer improvements in stability, performance, and reliability across various temperature ranges. They have the potential to revolutionise the energy storage sector. However, the commercialisation of zinc-based batteries requires stabilizing their performance.
"With zinc-ion batteries, certain suitable modifications to the electrode, electrolyte and interfaces can yield far superior results to the existing lithium-based battery options in the market," stated Prof. Senguttuvan.
The agreement aims to leverage JNCASR's research expertise and Hindustan Zinc’s product innovation capabilities. The partnership plans to explore and develop new zinc alloys for use as anodes in zinc-ion batteries and suitable electrolytes for their application in rechargeable batteries. Prof. Senguttuvan's team intends to modulate the structure and chemical compositions of the alloys and electrolytes from the atomic/molecular level to the device level to address existing material issues.
"A modified electrolyte is expected to increase the life and safety of devices," added Prof. Senguttuvan.
JNCASR also plans to demonstrate zinc-ion pouch batteries that are easily scalable for large-scale commercial applications. These modified batteries are expected to offer higher performance and greater safety, which could support the ongoing global energy transition.
"By providing innovative new product solutions, Hindustan Zinc aims to be at the forefront of the battery revolution," stated a representative from Hindustan Zinc.
What makes it unique?
The partnership is also aligned with two major Sustainable Development Goals: SDG7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG13 (Climate Action). These goals focus on ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all, and taking urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts.
"This research agreement marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of battery technologies," said a member of the JNCASR research team.
The collaboration intends to address the instability of zinc in water-based solutions through innovative modifications at the electrode, electrolyte, and interface levels. The modified electrolyte is expected to enhance the lifespan and safety of zinc-ion batteries, making them a viable and superior alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
MoU between JNCASR and Hindustan Zinc Limited is a significant step towards developing and commercializing zinc-ion batteries, aiming to provide low-cost, high-performance energy storage solutions. This agreement highlights the importance of research and industry collaboration in advancing technology to meet global energy needs and sustainability goals.
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