Technology, especially in the area of consumer electronics, improves and increases very, very rapidly – just a few years time can yield incredible increases in power and performance, the likes of which we never imagined posible before. Battery technology, however, has been notably behind in its increases, with batteries still being a primary factor in the life and usability of a device. The good folks at Sumitomo Electric Industries, however, think they might be about to change all that.
A new and interesting report has surfaced today at Sumitomo Electric Industries, who claim they have developed a new porous aluminum called “Aluminum-Celmet.” The new material can reportedly replace the aluminum in existing batteries, and increase the battery life of those cells up to 3 times.
The report explains that currently the positive and negative electrode current connectors of LI-ion batteries are made from Aluminum or Copper foils, and simply replacing that foil with Aluminum-Celmet could significantly increase the amount of energy that the battery can store. Additionally, this new aluminum substance is extremely resistant to corrosion, making it an idea choice of material.
The new technology has not been thoroughly tested or investigated by a third-party as yet, but I am hopeful that the technology works, and that battery manufacturers catch on and begin taking advantage of the enhancements it might be able to provide. The company will reportedly build a small-scale production line at Osaka Works to accelerate development efforts toward mass production of the new material.
I certainly hope pans out – if any aspect of technology needs a serious kickstart in the rear, it’s battery technology. Here’s to you, Sumitomo Electric Industries! May the Force be with you! Live long and prosper!