1.
Aqueous
zinc -ion battery (AZIB)
Prelims:
Science & Technology, Environment
Mains:
GS Paper III – Science & Technology, Environment, Economy
Current
relevance:
The Institute of Nano Science and Technology (INST) has developed a
new additive that increases the safety and durability of Aqueous
Zinc-Ion Batteries (AZIBs).
Highlights:
1.
Researchers developed a new electrolyte additive called
1,3-bis(1,3-dicarboxypropyl)-1H-imidazole-3-ium chloride (BDIM) to improve
the performance of Aqueous Zinc-Ion Batteries (AZIBs).
Aim:
1.
To develop safer, longer-lasting, and cost-effective
rechargeable zinc batteries for large-scale energy storage.
2.
It uses electrolyte interface engineering to
enhance battery performance without redesigning battery materials.
BDIM:
(i)
It was synthesized using glutamic acid, sodium
hydroxide (NaOH), glyoxal, formaldehyde, and acetic acid.
(ii)
It selectively adsorbs onto the zinc metal surface.
(iii) Suppresses zinc dendrite growth and corrosion.
(iv) Minimizes Hydrogen Evolution Reaction (HER).
Significance:
(i)
Promotes safe and sustainable battery technology.
(ii)
Extends the operational life of rechargeable zinc
batteries.
(iii) Enables reliable
energy storage for renewable energy integration and power grids.
(iv) Provides an alternative
to lithium-ion batteries by reducing dependence on critical minerals such
as lithium and cobalt.
Source: PIB