Monash University engineers have developed an ultra-fast-charging lithium-sulphur ( Li-S ) battery with the potential to improve electric mobility and commercial drones. The breakthrough builds on a decade of research and has been published in Advanced Energy Materials.
The development of a lithium-sulfur battery
The new technology offers improved energy density, doubling the performance of lithium-ion batteries, creating new, more efficient and lighter batteries. This advance opens the door to applications such as commercial drones and long-range electric vehicles, capable of travelling up to 1,000 additional kilometres on a single charge.
PhD candidate Maleesha Nishshanke, who is leading the project, explained that the development was inspired by the chemistry of betadine, a common antiseptic. This innovation allows for faster charging and discharging times, making Li-S batteries a viable option for intensive use in the real world.
Co-lead author Dr. Petar Jovanović highlighted that these batteries are ideal for electric vehicles, and applications in the aeronautical and maritime industries, where fast and reliable power in lightweight devices is required. This brings the vision of sustainable aviation closer to reality.
Professor Mainak Majumder, co-leader of the research, said the team has overcome critical technical challenges to ensure the batteries maintain high performance without degrading rapidly. With energy densities of up to 400 Wh/kg, these batteries become a greener alternative to lithium-ion batteries, eliminating the dependence on materials such as cobalt.
The technology, supported by the United States Air Force Office of Sponsored Research , has the potential to place Australia at the forefront of a rapidly growing industry. With the global Li-S battery market estimated at $209 million by 2028, commercialisation of these batteries could create jobs, foster economic growth and position the region as a leader in sustainability.
To commercialise the technology, Monash University has created a spin-off company, Ghove Energy , which is raising seed funding to bring this new technology to market. In addition, the team is working on new additives to further improve charging times and optimise the efficiency of lithium use.
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Source and photo: Monash University
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