Why is it in the news?

• South Korean scientists have developed a sodium-ion battery capable of rapid charging in seconds, potentially revolutionizing energy storage technology.

Sodium-Ion Battery Vs Lithium-Ion Battery

• Sodium is 500-1000 times more abundant than lithium.
• Sodium-ion batteries charge faster compared to lithium-ion batteries.
• Sodium-ion batteries are safer as they do not explode or catch fire easily, unlike lithium-ion batteries.
• Sodium-ion batteries have a higher operating temperature range, making them suitable for use in more extreme temperatures.
• Sodium-ion batteries can be used in both small and large-scale energy storage applications, whereas lithium-ion batteries are more suitable for portable devices and electric vehicles.

Limitations of Sodium Ion Battery

• Sodium-ion batteries have a shorter lifespan compared to lithium-ion batteries.
• Sodium-ion battery technology is in its early stages, lacking a well-established supply chain.
• Sodium-ion batteries have limitations in flexibility into various shapes (e.g., prism, cylinder).
• Sodium-ion batteries have a cycle life of around 5,000 times, which is significantly lower than commercial lithium iron phosphate batteries, which have a cycle life of 8,000-10,000 times.