Molten salt battery can replace lithium devices, works in heat without catching fire

The demand for safe and increased energy storage in a device is driving innovations worldwide. Conventional lithium batteries aren’t safe enough, especially in high heat, and have certain limitations that hamper innovation in such devices.

To overcome multiple challenges, a Tennessee-based energy company has introduced a new type of battery aimed at replacing traditional lithium batteries.

BioLargo Energy Technologies claims that its molten salt-based battery thrives in heat and can be a better alternative for traditional energy storage devices.

Salt-based battery won’t catch fire

These new batteries must be heated to work. The maker claims that salt doesn’t catch fire, making the device safer for use in homes and solar energy systems.

Randall Moore, President and CEO of BioLargo , stated that 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.”

“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, that’s not going to be a safety concern. That’s the biggest issue is trying to find a better way to meet an immediate need.” Moore said.

BioLargo expanding its energy program to different countries

The company is expanding its energy program to different countries across the world. On Saturday, September 21, the company will celebrate its partnership with a Norwegian-based energy company with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4 p.m. at the BioLargo facility in Oak Ridge, reported 10News .

The high-temperature battery uses molten salts as the electrolyte and offers multiple advantages compared to conventional energy storage devices. The new batteries have longer cycle, higher energy density, and can operate at high temperatures.

Molten salt batteries are suited for heavy storage applications

Suited for heavy-scale energy storage applications, the new system can be used as grid storage and renewable energy integration, due to their robustness and efficiency. The new devices can advance sustainable energy solutions by providing reliable and efficient energy storage.

Generally, the electrolyte in such batteries contain typically a combination of sodium chloride (NaCl) and other salts like potassium chloride (KCl) or magnesium chloride (MgCl2). Some companies heat salts to their melting point to create a conductive medium.

Some battery-makers claimed that the future of molten salt batteries is promising, driven by ongoing advancements in materials science, thermal management, and battery design.

Innovations in electrolyte composition

Some research works are focusing on improving the performance, efficiency, and safety of molten salt batteries through the development of advanced materials and innovative designs.

Innovations in electrolyte composition and electrode materials aim to enhance energy density and cycle life. Additionally, efforts to improve thermal management systems and reduce start-up times are expected to make molten salt batteries more practical and cost-effective, according to Umbrex .

To ensure the significant role of molten salt batteries in the future of sustainable and resilient energy storage solutions, addressing challenges such as high operating temperatures, material compatibility, and safety concerns are required.