New Glass-Ceramics Set to Transform Energy Storage in Construction Sector

Researchers have unveiled a promising new material that could revolutionize energy storage technology, particularly in the construction sector, where the demand for sustainable and efficient energy solutions is growing. The study, led by Jintara Padchasri from the Synchrotron Light Research Institute in Thailand, focuses on lithium borate-based glass-ceramics (GC) designed for rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. This innovative approach could significantly enhance the performance of energy storage systems used in construction projects, paving the way for greener building practices.

The composition of the glass-ceramics, specifically xNiO-(0.20-x)MnO2-0.80(Li2S:B2O3), varies with different proportions of nickel and manganese, which are critical for optimizing electrochemical properties. The researchers employed a melt-quenching technique to fabricate these materials, a method that could be scalable for commercial production. “The addition of Ni and Mn into the lithium-sulfur borate glass system has improved its electrochemical characteristics,” Padchasri stated, highlighting the potential for these materials to serve as economically viable options for energy storage electrodes.

The testing results are impressive. The glass-ceramics demonstrated a discharge capacity of 70 mAh.g−1 during the first cycle, with a voltage range of 0.8–1.1 V. More importantly, they exhibited excellent cycling stability over 100 cycles, which is crucial for the longevity and reliability of battery systems. This stability is a significant advantage in construction, where energy storage systems must endure various environmental conditions and heavy usage over time.

Electrical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements further revealed that the lithium diffusion coefficient in the most effective formulation, 0.16Ni-0.04Mn, remained robust even after cycling. This characteristic suggests that these glass-ceramics could maintain high performance in real-world applications, making them suitable for integration into building materials and energy systems.

As the construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable solutions, the implications of this research are profound. The ability to harness advanced materials for energy storage could lead to smarter buildings that not only consume less energy but also generate and store their own. This aligns with global trends toward energy efficiency and sustainability in construction practices.

The findings were published in the journal “Materials Science for Energy Technologies,” which focuses on the intersection of materials science and energy applications. As the industry moves toward greener technologies, innovations like those presented by Padchasri and his team will play a crucial role in shaping the future of energy storage solutions.

For more information about the research and its implications, you can visit the Synchrotron Light Research Institute’s website at lead_author_affiliation.

×