Introduction
Electric Vehicles (EVs) are crucial in overcoming the climate crisis. They can be powered by renewable electricity, avoiding fossil fuels. However, the high cost of Lithium-ion batteries, the current standard for EVs, is a challenge. Sodium-ion batteries could be a solution, making EVs more affordable.
Sodium-Ion Batteries: An Overview
A battery functions like a sandwich. It has two electrodes (the cathode and anode) that contain an electrolyte filling. When recharging, ions move towards the anode for storage. When the car is on, they shift back to the cathode, generating an electric current that powers the car.
Lithium is ideal for this process due to its small, light ions. However, sodium, which shares many chemical properties with lithium, is 1,000 times more abundant. Sodium-ion batteries use sodium carbonate, which is widely accessible and practically inexhaustible.
Performance of Sodium-Ion Batteries
Sodium ions are heavier and larger than lithium ions, requiring thicker and heavier electrodes. Despite this, recent innovations have made sodium batteries competitive with some Lithium-ion systems. Sodium-ion batteries can deliver cheaper EVs with a range of 150-250 miles. The latest Sodium-ion Battery packs can even undercut the cost of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries.
Future of Sodium-Ion Batteries
China has recognized the potential of sodium-ion batteries. Chinese battery company CATL plans to supply sodium-ion batteries for a new EV model. There is still room to improve the energy density of sodium-ion batteries, particularly in the cathode. Research is underway to develop new cathode materials for improved EV driving ranges.
In conclusion, sodium-ion batteries are entering the EV market and could compete with shorter-range lithium batteries. The future of sodium-ion EVs depends on economic factors and advances in materials science.
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