Forget Lithium: This Is Why Zinc Stands a Better Chance In Enabling Future Energy Grids
For years now, lithium has made headlines with its role in energy storage and electric vehicles making headlines. With so many advantages put out there, the limitations and disadvantages of lithium batteries remain covered. Inadequate recyclability, insecure supply chains, and risky flammability are some of the lithium limitations.
Unknown to most, zinc is a better choice for electrochemical storage. Thus, its use in the first-ever discovered battery; and why it powers all types of batteries- D, C, A.A. As the demand for energy storage continues to rise, there is a rise in zinc-based technology to advance the ability of batteries to meet energy needs. Zinc is a better component because;
1. It is safe, sustainable, and cost-effective
Zinc is among the most common minerals on the planet. Thus, it is easy to find and cheap compared to other elements. Also, it offers a stable supply chain that exists in every major region across the globe.
Commonly used as a vitamin supplement and the main ingredient in sunscreen, zinc batteries are safe to use. Zinc batteries have an extremely low chance of flammability and thus don’t come with numerous safety cautions.
2. Offers longer storage duration
Referring to the Texas blackout, there has been a need for batteries with a long power storage duration. Extended storage offers numerous advantages, such as better use of renewable resources and more efficient shifting.
3. Day to day applications
Zinc is ideal for numerous daily applications around the home at a lower cost compared to lithium. Also, the capability of zinc to support energy storage for an extended time makes them ideal for use in remote areas and off-grid regions.
4. Safety
Zinc offers unmatched safety as it is non-toxic and non-inflammable. Thus, it can be installed, maintained, and transported without the need for additional precautionary measures. Also, with zinc batteries, there is no need for fire suppression systems or additional thermal management.
5. Zinc for the future
The primary concern with lithium-ion batteries is the element’s future availability. The raw materials for lithium are scarce and are majorly located in regions with political instability. On the other hand, zinc is among the commonly used metals worldwide and is more abundant than lithium. Its stable supply chain guarantees its ability to meet future demand not only for decades but for centuries to come.
Zinc offers a bright future as more investors and discerning customers understand its safety and sustainability.
