Scientists at the University of Surrey have unveiled a new type of battery that could transform how we store energy and fight climate change.
These advanced lithium–CO₂ batteries not only deliver higher energy performance but also absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during use – offering a powerful two-in-one solution to two of the world’s most pressing challenges: clean energy storage and greenhouse gas reduction.
By solving long-standing efficiency issues with a low-cost catalyst, this innovation could pave the way for scalable, eco-friendly batteries that outperform today’s lithium-ion technology – both on Earth and potentially even on Mars.
The power of “breathing” batteries
Unlike conventional batteries that only store and release energy, lithium–CO₂ batteries “breathe”. They absorb CO₂ from the environment and convert it into energy during discharge. This unique function allows them to serve a dual purpose: powering devices and reducing atmospheric carbon.
However, despite their potential, lithium–CO₂ batteries have long been plagued by technical hurdles. They typically suffer from short lifespans, inefficiencies during recharging, and dependence on rare, expensive materials like platinum.
Solving the efficiency problem with affordable chemistry
The University of Surrey team has now addressed these limitations by introducing a low-cost catalyst known as caesium phosphomolybdate (CPM).
This novel compound plays a critical role in reducing “overpotential” – the extra energy needed to drive the battery’s chemical reactions. By smoothing this energy demand, CPM allows the battery to operate more efficiently, losing less energy during each cycle.
Lab tests revealed remarkable improvements: the modified lithium–CO₂ batteries lasted for over 100 cycles, stored significantly more energy, and required far less power to recharge, all while using inexpensive, scalable materials.
How the technology works
To understand why CPM is so effective, the scientists used a two-pronged approach.
Post-use analysis showed that lithium carbonate, the main product of the battery’s reaction with CO₂, could be reliably created and removed. This consistency is key to extending battery life.
The team also employed computer modelling via density functional theory (DFT) to explore molecular interactions on the battery’s surface.
The findings confirmed that CPM’s stable, porous structure offers an ideal environment for the required electrochemical reactions, further supporting its superior performance.
The implications of this research stretch beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Given that Mars is composed of 95% CO₂, lithium–CO₂ batteries could potentially power future missions to the Red Planet.
Closer to home, these batteries may help reduce emissions from transport and industrial sectors, making them a crucial tool in the fight against climate change.
A scalable solution
The study marks a significant step towards commercialising lithium–CO₂ batteries. By demonstrating that high performance can be achieved with readily available materials, the research opens the door to further innovations in carbon-capturing energy storage.
As demand grows for sustainable energy solutions, lithium–CO₂ batteries could emerge as a practical, eco-friendly option for the global transition to renewables, delivering clean power while actively reducing CO₂ in the atmosphere.
