BioLargo Energy Technologies, a Tennessee-based company, is pioneering a new type of battery that promises to revolutionize energy storage.
Unlike the widely-used lithium-ion batteries, BioLargo’s innovative battery utilizes molten salt and is designed to thrive in high temperatures, effectively eliminating the risk of fire.
The shortcomings of lithium-ion batteries are well-documented. They often fail in high heat and have been linked to numerous fires, particularly in densely populated areas like New York.
These limitations prevent their safe and efficient use in various applications, especially where high temperatures are involved.
Randall Moore, President and CEO of BioLargo, emphasized the safety advantages of molten salt batteries: “There have been a number of fires related to lithium-ion batteries in New York, including in e-bikes. This cell won’t have that problem.”
One of the significant advantages of molten salt batteries is their ability to operate safely at high temperatures.
These batteries need to be heated to function, but the salts they use, such as sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KCl), do not catch fire, making them safer for applications in homes and solar energy systems.
Moore further explained, “I think the main goal is to provide a cell that people don’t have to worry about having in their homes and their factories.
Safety is the biggest issue, and we’re looking for better ways to meet an immediate need.”
In addition to safety, these new batteries offer several technical advantages. They have a longer cycle life, higher energy density, and can seamlessly integrate into high-temperature applications like grid storage and renewable energy systems.
These attributes make them not only robust and efficient but also highly suitable for heavy-scale energy storage applications.
The electrolyte in these batteries consists of a molten mixture of salts, which provides a conductive medium for the battery to operate.
This innovative composition enables the battery to handle demanding energy storage tasks effectively.
BioLargo’s molten salt batteries are already gaining attention and traction.
The company is expanding its energy program globally, and on September 21, they will celebrate a significant milestone by partnering with a Norwegian-based energy company.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at BioLargo’s Oak Ridge facility to mark this occasion.
Research and development in this field are ongoing, with significant improvements expected in electrolyte composition, electrode materials, and thermal management systems.
These advancements aim to enhance the energy density, efficiency, and overall practicality of molten salt batteries, making them a cost-effective solution for the future of sustainable energy storage.
The increasing demand for safer, more efficient energy storage solutions is driving BioLargo to break new ground in battery technology.
By addressing the limitations of traditional lithium-ion batteries, molten salt technology stands out as a promising and reliable alternative for both residential and industrial energy needs.
As efforts continue to improve material compatibility and safety features, molten salt batteries are poised to play a significant role in the future of energy storage, promoting sustainability and resilience.