6. Zinc-Based Batteries:
How Do They Work?
Zinc-based batteries work much like lithium-ion batteries with zinc ions flowing from the battery’s anode to cathode. This class of new battery technology includes zinc-bromine, zinc-manganese dioxide, zinc-air, and zinc-ion batteries.
How Will They Be Used?
Zinc-based batteries could be used for solar energy storage because of their low rate of self-discharge. According to PV Magazine, a zinc-air battery storage system was installed in a 32-building community in Queens, New York, in 2022. After receiving a $400 million loan from the Department of Energy, startup Eos Energy aims to improve climate technology and the U.S. grid system with its zinc-based batteries as well.
Pros and Cons of Zinc-Based Batteries
These batteries are typically capable of storing an abundance of energy. Additionally, according to PV Magazine, the materials used in their production are affordable, non-toxic, and readily available.
However, researchers are still working to solve some technical problems related to these batteries, namely the potential for them to short circuit. These batteries are also inefficient and expensive to produce, so more research is needed before they can be used more widely.
