The renewable revolution runs on lithium. The metal is a key component in the batteries that power electric vehicles and store energy to stabilize electric grids as the makeup of global energy mixes increasingly relies on variable energy sources like wind and solar power. But while lithium has, in many ways, become synonymous with “clean energy” extraction of the metal is associated with a heap of negative environmental impacts, not to mention sticky geopolitics.Â
For these overlapping reasons, researchers have been looking into ways to move away from lithium, and a group of scientists at UNSW Sydney may have just made a major breakthrough. Their experimental battery model uses protons instead of lithium, using a novel organic material called tetraamino-benzoquinone (TABQ). The material facilitates the rapid movement of protons, which power the battery.Â
“The battery offers quick energy storage, extended cycle…
