Graphenano and the Institute of Molecular Science (ICMol) of the University of Valencia have developed the first battery cell without current collectors or metal terminals. The system, which instead uses graphene and carbon nanomaterials, paves the way for the manufacture of safer, lighter and more efficient batteries. Its application in the field of electric cars, aviation or stationary storage, among others, revolutionizes the battery sector.
The project has managed to remove the sheets of copper, aluminum or steel used in conventional batteries to evacuate electrical current, and also the tabs (current terminals) made of nickel or other metals, which are used to transfer energy from inside to outside from the battery.
The replacement of these metals by graphene and other carbon nanomaterials –materials with good electrical conductivity– point out that the weight and volume of the devices decreases "significantly", increases the energy density between 30% and 60% and eliminates the risk accident due to explosion or fire upon contact with air, as verified in tests.
“We have patented a technology that solves the battery safety problem with a disruptive approach,” says Martín Martínez, CEO of Graphenano. “Our system provides such chemical stability that the battery does not burn on contact with air, not even in the presence of water, and this makes it possible to dispense with the heavy safety shields of current batteries”, explains the businessman.
They also explain that the new cell is "more environmentally sustainable", as it does not contain the metals from the collectors. Also that it considerably reduces its carbon footprint and favors the recycling of materials in line with Battery Passport, the strategy of the European Commission to control the complete life cycle of the battery.
"Doing without these scarce metals on Earth undoubtedly impacts the economy and global geostrategy," says Gonzalo Abellán, leader of the 2DChem (ICMol) group involved in the project together with the team of Professor Eugenio Coronado, on behalf of the University From Valencia.
"This is a very versatile system that can be used in different chemistries, such as those that use lithium or sodium, and that opens up a new field in silicon batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells and hydrogen electrolyzers," explains Abellán. . "Collaboration between innovative companies, such as Graphenano, and research centers of excellence such as the ICMol is essential for economic and social progress, and this is an example of this," concludes the scientist.
