New Delhi, July 24: A team of Indian researchers has developed a cost-effective technology that could significantly improve the performance and durability of rechargeable zinc-air batteries, paving the way for more affordable and sustainable energy storage solutions.
The innovation was developed by scientists at SASTRA Deemed University under the leadership of Dr. S. Devaraj with support from the Department of Science and Technology (DST).
The newly developed technology has received an Indian patent and is considered ready for commercial adoption.
The research focuses on a specially designed nanofluid electrolyte containing silica and zinc oxide nanoparticles.
According to the scientists, the formulation helps reduce corrosion of the zinc electrode, limits hydrogen gas generation and enhances the electrochemical reactions required for efficient battery operation.
Researchers said the electrolyte has demonstrated stability for more than three months during testing, indicating its suitability for long-term use in rechargeable battery systems.
In another key development, the team designed a copper-doped manganese dioxide catalyst that performed better than conventional precious metal-based catalysts in laboratory evaluations.
The advancement could help lower manufacturing costs by reducing dependence on expensive materials.
The researchers also explored sustainable manufacturing by converting discarded household water-filter carbon and used surgical face masks into high-performance carbon materials suitable for batteries and supercapacitors, promoting both waste recycling and clean energy technologies.
Scientists believe the combined innovations could strengthen the development of next-generation energy storage systems for electric vehicles, renewable energy integration and other clean energy applications.
They added that the new materials and electrolyte design may also have potential uses in other battery technologies.
The development is expected to contribute to India’s efforts to promote affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly energy storage solutions while supporting the country’s transition toward cleaner sources of energy.
