US scientists develop batteries for electric cars without 'everlasting chemicals'

Researchers at the University of Chicago have found a way to get rid of dangerous chemicals in rechargeable batteries while maintaining high performance.

Here's What We Know

Global demand for lithium-ion batteries will grow from 700 gigawatt hours in 2022 to 4.7 terawatt hours by 2030, according to the Mckinsey Company. However, the "dirty secret" of batteries - the use of harmful chemicals - is still unresolved.

In addition to rare earth materials, electric car batteries contain hazardous chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds). PFASs are found everywhere, from our clothes to non-stick kitchen pans. They do not degrade in the environment and can enter the body through food and water, hence the name "everlasting chemicals."

Researchers at the University of Chicago are developing a new generation of batteries for electric vehicles that are PFAS-free. In a typical lithium-ion battery, these substances are present in the cathode and in the electrolyte, where they help maintain the internal structure of the battery. However, the scientists say that the presence of PFAS is not a fundamental requirement.

To solve this problem, the team developed a special "non-fluorinated solvent" without PFAS for the electrolyte. Results from laboratory tests look encouraging:

• PFAS-free cells showed better ion pairing, which means higher energy density
• Better resistance to extreme temperatures - stable operation from -40°C +15°C
• Better capacity retention, which means longer life and consistently high performance

Right now, these batteries are in the laboratory experimentation phase and are far from production. However, the aim of the research is to show that the environmental problems of electric vehicle batteries can be solved already at the design stage.

PFAS have been linked to serious health risks, including developmental disorders in children and reproductive problems in women, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

Source: InsideEVs