RMIT University in Melbourne, Australia, is the home of a battery research project seeking a safer, recyclable alternative to Lithium-Ion (Li-ion) for large-scale energy storage. Their work has led to an aqueous metal-ion battery that uses water for its electrolyte. The battery design calls for readily available, inexpensive materials and allows for disassembly and reuse of its components.
Aqueous energy storage devices replace the organic electrolytes in Li-ion with water to enable the electric current to pass between the positive and negative terminals. A battery based on water will not catch on fire. No more exploding laptops or Teslas.
The inventors believe the battery is suitable for large-scale use such as for storage backup in renewable wind and solar projects and for standalone storage to feed the grid during peak periods of energy demand.