The search for advanced EV battery materials is leading the industry towards sodium-ion batteries. The market for rechargeable batteries is primarily driven by Electric Vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. In India, electric two-wheelers have outpaced four-wheelers, with sales exceeding 0.94 million vehicles in FY 2024.
Globally, electric car sales hit 18% in 2023, reaching 13.8 million vehicles. This surge has demanded over 600 GWh of Lithium-ion batteries. Currently, Lithium-ion battery (LIB) capacity stands at over 1 terawatt-hour (TWh), with projections to hit 6 TWh by decade’s end.
Advancements in Battery Technology
Innovations in Lithium-ion chemistries continue to address demands for longer range and improved safety. Western nations focus on enhancing NMC’s energy density to exceed 350 Wh/kg. Meanwhile, China and India are upgrading LFP to LMFP to surpass 220 Wh/Kg.
Despite advancements, fluctuating lithium prices and supply chain issues ignite interest in alternatives. Sodium-ion batteries are emerging as a promising technology. They offer cost-effectiveness, fast-charging capability, and good low-temperature performance. They can also be transported at 0V.
Cathode Materials in Sodium-Ion Batteries
A cell’s energy density largely depends on the capacity and voltage set by cathode active materials. Sodium-based cathodes present a commendable capacity. Sodium is smaller and lighter than potassium and magnesium alternatives. Sodium-ion Battery cathodes are classified into Transition Metal Oxides (NaxMO2), Polyanion Compounds (NaxMy[(XOm)n-]z), and Prussian Blue Analogues (NaxM[Fe(CN)6]·nH2O).
Transition metal oxide-based SIBs offer the highest energy density, with BYD achieving 140 Wh/kg and HiNa Energy reaching 145 Wh/kg. These performance results are in first-generation products. Manufacturers now aim for second-generation cells with 200 Wh/kg energy densities.
Sodium-Based Electrolytes
Standard electrolytes comprise salts, solvents, and additives. In SIBs, sodium hexafluorophosphate (NaPF6) and sodium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imiden (NaFSI) are prevalent. Sodium’s cost advantage suggests NaPF6 will become more affordable. This shift toward sodium-based salts indicates potential advancements in battery technology.
The Future of Sodium-Ion Batteries
With rising demand for EVs and energy storage, alternative materials gain traction. While LIBs offer cost-effectiveness now, lithium’s limited supply raises sustainability questions. Consequently, many are turning to sodium, a more abundant resource. SIB gigafactories worldwide plan over 100 GWh of capacity.
In February 2023, JAC launched the world’s first EVs equipped with SIBs, featuring a 25-kWh battery with a 250 km range. Although SIBs have ground to cover compared to LIBs, they show significant promise for the future.
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