Latest on magnesium-based energy storage

What are rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBS)?

Benefiting from higher volumetric capacity, environmental friendliness and metallic dendrite-free magnesium (Mg) anodes, rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) are of great importance to the development of energy storage technology beyond lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).

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.

Why is mg a good choice for energy storage?

It possesses the merits of light-weight, chemically active, recyclable, high hydrogen capacity, and good thermal conductivity, etc. These features make it an ideal candidate for energy storage, and therefore, the expanded applications of Mg and Mg-based alloys are significant for solving the worldwide energy crisis and environmental problems.

Can a aqueous metal-ion magnesium energy storage solution solve a problem?

That particular problem has been resolved by a multinational research team based at RMIT University in Australia, which has been working on an aqueous metal-ion magnesium energy storage formulation. Also called a “water battery,” the device uses water instead of the organic electrolytes deployed in lithium-ion batteries.

Should magnesium batteries be added to the planet-saving toolkit?

Circling back to the benefits of adding magnesium batteries to the planet-saving toolkit, another factor to consider is the rapid acceleration of the energy storage field. In an interview published in 2022, Argonne National Laboratory chemist Brian Ingram noted lithium-ion batteries are doing just fine — for now.

Why are researchers pursuing magnesium technology?

Lifespan is just one of the technology challenges that magnesium batteries need to overcome, so at this point it’s worth pausing to ask why researchers are pursuing magnesium technology, when lithium-ion batteries are already here, now, and on the market. That’s a good question. Part of the answer has to do with battery safety and lifecycle.