From Booze to Battery: How Wine is Revolutionizing Energy Storage for Electric Vehicles Chris Lehoux, October 6, 2024 The researchers have developed a prototype battery cell that matches the size of those commonly found in mobile phones, showcasing the capabilities of their innovative technology by storing significantly more energy than conventional graphite-based batteries. Aman Tripathi This groundbreaking technology substitutes graphite with compounds derived from easily accessible food acids. Iryna Inshyna/iStock Researchers at the University of NSW have made a significant advancement in battery technology by utilizing an unlikely source: food acids, including those present in wine. They have created a battery component from compounds derived from food acids, which are commonly available and often discarded as waste. “An innovative battery component that incorporates food-derived acids found in both sherbet and winemaking has the potential to enhance the efficiency, affordability, and sustainability of lithium-ion batteries,” the researchers stated in a press release. At present, lithium-ion batteries are prevalent in the energy sector, being extensively utilized in a range of devices from smartphones to electric vehicles. Nevertheless, they are accompanied by a number of challenges. A crucial component of these batteries is the anode, which has been traditionally crafted from graphite. However, the process of producing graphite poses significant environmental concerns due to mining activities, energy-demanding purification processes, and the utilization of harsh chemicals. Professor Neeraj Sharma, who was at the helm of the research team, emphasizes that the traditional approach to obtaining graphite for batteries is highly unsustainable. “Approximately 60% of the graphite is lost during processing, which often involves high temperatures and potent acids necessary to achieve the desired purity… resulting in a substantial environmental footprint,” he stated. The innovative technology substitutes graphite with compounds sourced from food acids such as tartaric and malic acid. “Our aim is to deeply comprehend the materials used in batteries and their functioning during operations. With this knowledge, we can develop improved materials,” stated Professor Sharma. “By utilizing waste produced in large quantities for battery components, the industry can broaden their sources while tackling environmental and sustainability challenges.” The team of researchers has demonstrated the capabilities of their technology by creating a prototype battery cell. This prototype is comparable in size to those found in mobile phones and can store more energy than conventional graphite-based batteries. This advancement may enable devices to retain more charge and require less frequent charging. “We conducted experiments to gain insights into the underlying mechanisms, developing reactions aimed at enhancing performance and analyzing the resulting compounds along with their effectiveness,” Sharma stated. The team is currently in the process of scaling up their production method, transitioning from small coin-sized batteries to larger pouch cells suitable for more demanding applications. They are also conducting tests to ensure the durability of the batteries under repeated use and varying temperature conditions. “By gaining a deeper understanding of battery chemistry, we have the ability to improve their physical characteristics and elevate their energy storage capabilities [to accommodate more power], ionic conductivity [allowing for quicker energy discharge or recharge] or structural integrity [prolonging their lifespan to enhance sustainability],” noted Sharma. This significant advancement holds the promise of not only rendering batteries more environmentally friendly but also making them more affordable and efficient. The team of researchers is investigating the potential use of this innovative technology in sodium-ion batteries, which represent a viable alternative to the commonly used lithium-ion batteries. Professor Sharma emphasized the significance of having a variety of battery technologies tailored for numerous applications and highlighted the necessity for more sustainable materials and processes. “The key is to develop distinct battery technologies for specific uses, including the integration of solar energy with battery systems in a single unit,” he stated. This advancement marks a significant leap in battery technology, demonstrating the capability of transforming food waste into a valuable asset for energy production worldwide. Keep informed about the latest in engineering, technology, space, and science by following The Blueprint. By clicking sign up, you acknowledge that you agree to this site’s Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Aman Tripathi is a dynamic journalist and news editor. He has reported on both routine and breaking news for various top-tier publications and news outlets, such as The Hindu, Economic Times, Tomorrow Makers, and others. Aman specializes in politics, travel, and technology news, with a particular focus on AI, advanced algorithms, and blockchain, while maintaining a strong interest in all aspects of science and technology. Published 2 days ago 2 days ago 2 days ago 2 days ago About the Author: Chris Lehoux Meet Chris Lehoux, an experienced wine connoisseur and dedicated blogger with a deep passion for all things wine-related. With years of expertise in the industry, Chris shares insightful wine reviews, valuable wine tasting tips, expert pairing advice, and captivating tales of vineyard visits. Join Chris on a journey through the world of wine, where every sip is an adventure waiting to be savored! Wine