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Brazilian researchers develop innovative technology for lightweight, flexible and highly efficient lead batteries, with the potential to transform the energy storage market!
A group of scientists from Institute of Energy and Nuclear Research (Ipen), in São Paulo, made a discovery that could revolutionize the lead battery market. They created an innovative battery, synthesized with lead and carbon nanoparticles, which features an architecture inspired by hydrogen fuel cells. The result? A lighter, more flexible and more efficient battery, ready to challenge traditional lead batteries used in automobiles and various industrial applications.
The research, which was published in March in the journal Journal of Energy Storage, marks an important advancement in energy storage technology. Ipen scientists are also working to ensure the protection of this innovation through a patent application with the National Institute of Industrial Property (INPI), according to Jornalmetropolis.
Technology that replaces metallic electrodes with nanoparticles
At the heart of this innovation is the replacement of traditional lead metal electrodes with lead nanoparticles anchored in a flexible carbon fabric. This fabric, in addition to being much lighter, is an excellent power conductor. Almir Oliveira Neto, chemist at Ipen's Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Center and project leader, explains that this approach not only significantly reduces the weight of the battery, but also increases its efficiency. “In other words, we exchanged a lead giant for a technological feather”, comments Neto, with a touch of humor.
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This innovation is not just limited to electrodes. The team also introduced a solid polymer electrolyte - a membrane that transports protons – replacing the traditional liquid electrolyte found in lead-acid batteries, such as sulfuric acid diluted in water. This membrane not only contributes to the flexibility of the system, but also reduces the weight of the battery. Rodrigo Fernando Brambilla de Souza, first author of the study, highlights that the absence of liquids in the system reduces the risk of leaks and extends the battery's useful life, making it a safer and longer-lasting option.
Weight reduction and increased efficiency
The prototype developed by Ipen is a true technological feat. Measuring approximately 5 centimeters square and just 1,2 millimeters thick, this battery has a shape that resembles a sandwich – two carbon fabrics impregnated with lead nanoparticles are hot pressed with the proton transport membrane in between. And most impressively: it weighs just 0,73 grams! In laboratory tests, the battery showed the same energy efficiency as a traditional lead cell, which weighs 15 grams. In simple terms, this means that this new technology is 20 times lighter and takes up 90% less space.
Souza, who is currently in a postdoctoral internship at Ipen, does not hide his enthusiasm. “We are talking about a battery that could revolutionize energy storage, especially in sectors where every gram and every millimeter counts“, he states. Reducing weight and size without losing efficiency opens the door to a wide range of applications, from electric vehicles to portable electronic devices.
Market potential and next steps
Ipen's innovation comes at a time when demand for efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions is on the rise. With the growing adoption of electric vehicles and the expansion of renewable energy, batteries that combine lightness, flexibility and high efficiency are highly desirable. The technology developed by Brazilian researchers has the potential to fill this gap, offering a competitive alternative to traditional lead batteries.
Next steps include continuing testing in real-world conditions and scaling production to meet market demands. Furthermore, applying for a patent with the INPI will be essential to protect this innovation and attract investment for its commercialization.
Therefore, the Ipen team is at the forefront of a new era for lead batteries, combining technological innovation with sustainability and efficiency. And who knows, in the near future, your next automotive or portable device battery won't be one of those “technological sandwiches” that, on top of everything else, are as light as a feather?
