Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Madras researchers has developed mechanically-rechargeable zinc-air batteries as a substitute for Lithium-ion batteries that are utilized in electrical automobiles (EVs).
The researchers, who’ve filed for patents for this new battery know-how, are collaborating with main industries to develop these zinc-air batteries. These batteries are economical in contrast with current lithium-ion batteries and have an extended shelf life. Zinc-air batteries can be utilized in two-wheeler and three-wheeler EVs.
“Our Research Group is developing a futuristic model for zinc-air batteries for EVs. Through this research, we are also identifying shortcomings in existing technology and finding ways to address them. The Research team has currently developed zinc-air cells and is working towards developing zinc-air packs for EVs,” Aravind Kumar Chandiran, assistant professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Madras, stated whereas highlighting the important thing focus of their analysis.
The Researchers are mooting separate ‘Zinc Recharge Stations’, just like petrol stations. The EVs customers utilising zinc-air batteries can attain out to those bunks at any time when the batteries are drained, just like the present mannequin of standard automobiles refuelling at petrol stations. This know-how is predicated on ‘Battery Swapping’ by which automobile customers can swap used ‘zinc cassettes’ of the battery with fully-charged ‘zinc cassettes’ at these ‘Zinc recharge stations.’
“This is a major advantage of the zinc-air batteries as currently the only option available with the lithium-ion batteries is that the entire used battery pack has to be removed and be swapped with a complete lithium-ion battery pack. This results in double the capital investment in the case of lithium-ion batteries,” Chandiran added.
The researchers are additionally mooting to recharge the used ‘zinc cassettes’ by way of photo voltaic panels.
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Source: www.financialexpress.com”