IBM batteries do not contain cobalt and contain materials from seawater (2 photos)

The main task of modern electric vehicles ispreventing environmental pollution, reducing greenhouse gases and, ultimately, saving humanity from environmental disasters. However, the current manufacturing techniques for lithium-ion batteries include the use of heavy metals nickel and cobalt, which are harmful to nature, and their extraction in Africa is often carried out using child labor. These problems can be solved using the development of IBM Research Battery Lab innovative batteries that do not contain heavy metals, but using components extracted from their sea water.

IBM Developers Assure Newrechargeable batteries are superior to modern lithium-ion batteries in terms of cost and charge recovery time (from 0 to 80% charge takes 5 minutes). New batteries also demonstrate higher energy efficiency and power density. New batteries are more resistant to spontaneous combustion and as a result are more suitable for use in aircraft electric cars and smart systems.

IBM engineers invention uses threeproprietary material, one of which is intended for the cathode and does not contain cobalt and nickel. Liquid electrolyte is also used. The use of new materials allowed to reduce the activity of the reaction of formation of dendrites of metallic lithium during charging, which in turn reduces the likelihood of fire.

To start industrial productiona new type of battery IBM is working with Mercedes-Benz, manufacturers of batteries Central Glass and Sidus. To further improve battery performance and identify even safer materials, IBM Research will use AI.

Source: Engadget