The efficiencies one gets from batteries greatly depend on battery chemistries. However, in an age wherein environmental considerations are of prime importance, efficiencies and eco-friendliness walk hand-in-hand. Efficiencies without eco-friendliness or eco-friendliness without efficiencies do not meet today’s requirements.
In this context a new, rechargeable battery technology based on silver, zinc, and water seems interesting. The chemical constituents of this battery are inherently safer than other rechargeable batteries. It is claimed that the new technology has improved upon the performance of lithium-ion batteries that are overwhelmingly used in notebook computers and cellular phones. Besides, the new battery cells can be 100 percent recycled and the contents reused.
With millions of portable electronic products recalled during the last two years because of battery faults, a new technology that is intrinsically free from problems of thermal runaway, fire, and danger of explosion, as it contains no lithium or flammable substances, should be a welcome change. Another advantage is its possibility of being permitted on flights, as these are unrestricted from regulations limiting lithium-based battery size on airplanes. A longer runtime is yet another claimed advantage.
With these advantages, this battery topology should be the key to efficiency and convenience for mobile electronics, which forms the biggest growth segment in the electronics industry. Applications such as notebook computers, cell phones, mobile TV, and military should find extensive use of these cells.
Li-ion battery technology is reaching an energy density plateau. Some leading notebook vendors are looking at silver-zinc-water batteries as the best bet to replace Li-ion in terms of efficiency, safety, and clean technology.
This year should see such batteries making a mark in the market. Zinc Matrix Power is leading the charge. The investors in the company include Intel Capital, Power Ventures, and OnPoint Technologies, a private equity firm funded by the US army. Tyco Electronics is the company’s global manufacturing partner. With such associations, Zinc Matrix Power is well placed to make the new technology a success.
