Are magnesium batteries the future of energy storage?

Magnesium batteries, expected to be a key to the future of energy storage, may play a pivotal role in advancing electric vehicles and the implementation of renewable energies. Their development, which is cost-effective and benefits from a stronger supply chain compared to lithium-ion batteries, is crucial for efficient, large-scale energy storage.

Why do we need a magnesium battery?

Magnesium enables dendrite-free operation, improving battery safety and lifespan. New cathodes and electrolytes address issues like Mg²⁺ diffusion and anode passivation. Mg batteries suit EVs, grid storage, aerospace, and portable devices due to low cost. AI and materials engineering may speed up Mg battery commercialization and research.

Could magnesium be a new battery chemistry?

Although lithium-ion batteries currently power our cell phones, laptops and electric vehicles, scientists are on the hunt for new battery chemistries that could offer increased energy, greater stability and longer lifetimes. One potential promising element that could form the basis of new batteries is magnesium.

Could magnesium batteries power EVs?

With relatively low costs and a more robust supply chain than conventional lithium-ion batteries, magnesium batteries could power EVs and unlock more utility-scale energy storage, helping to shepherd more wind and solar energy into the grid. That depends on whether or not researchers can pick apart some of the technology obstacles in the way.

Are magnesium batteries better than lithium ion batteries?

A: Magnesium batteries are a promising energy storage chemistry. Magnesium batteries are potentially advantageous because they have a more robust supply chain and are more sustainable to engineer, and raw material costs may be less than state-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries. Q: What makes magnesium-ion batteries different from lithium-ion?

Could magnesium hold the key to high energy batteries?

Argonne chemist Brian Ingram weighs in An abundant element could hold the key to high energy batteries. Magnesium could form the basis of new batteries beyond today’s lithium-ion technology. (Image by Shutterstock/tunasalmon.)