Multiple-Electron Aqueous Battery
Technology Description:
The University of Maryland (UMD) is using water-based magnesium and hydrogen chemistries to improve the energy density and reduce the cost of EV batteries. The lithium-ion batteries typically used in most EVs today require heavy components to protect the battery and ensure safety. Water-based batteries are an inherently safer alternative, but can be larger and heavier compared to lithium-ion batteries, making them inefficient for use in EVs. To address this, UMD’s water-based battery will use a magnesium hydrogen chemistry that would double energy storage capacity, for a much lighter energy storage system. Furthermore, UMD’s use of safe inexpensive materials could reduce the cost of battery management, improve reliability, and allow for operation across a wider range of temperatures.
Potential Impact:
If successful, UMD’s water-based battery would be inherently safer than lithium-ion batteries with a comparable energy density, but would be smaller, lighter, and less expensive.
Security:
The mass adoption of EVs would diminish the demand for petroleum, dramatically reducing U.S. dependence on foreign oil.
Environment:
Greater use of EVs would reduce U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, 28% of which come from the transportation sector.
Economy:
Technological advancements from the RANGE program could enable EVs to travel significantly further on a single charge at a much lower cost than that of current EVs and conventional vehicles.
Contact
ARPA-E Program Director:
Dr. Halle Cheeseman
Project Contact:
Prof. Chunsheng Wang
Press and General Inquiries Email:
ARPA-E-Comms@hq.doe.gov
Project Contact Email:
cswang@umd.edu
Partners
Liox Power
U.S. Army Research Laboratory
Related Projects
Release Date:
02/15/2013