Monash Makes Better Battery For Electric Aircraft

Monash University has unveiled a lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery technology capable of ultra-fast charging, positioning it as a potential game-changer for electric vehicles (EVs), drones, and eventually, electric aircraft.

The breakthrough, developed over a decade, is now being commercialised by Monash’s new start-up, Ghove Energy. Researchers aim to demonstrate the technology in commercial drones and electric vertical take-off and landing vehicles (eVTOL) within the next year.

Catalyst for Faster Charging

Traditional lithium-sulfur batteries faced challenges with slow charging times, hindering commercial adoption. However, Monash engineers have introduced a catalyst inspired by the chemistry of betadine, a widely used antiseptic, to dramatically speed up the charge and discharge process.

Maleesha Nishshanke, a PhD candidate at Monash’s Nanoscale Science and Engineering Lab and lead author of the research paper, said the innovation paves the way for new applications. “Inspired by betadine, we found a way to accelerate the charge and discharge rates, making these batteries a practical option for real-world, heavy-duty use,” she said.

The study, published in Advanced Energy Materials, highlights how the catalyst enhances the C-rate performance of Li-S batteries, crucial for industries demanding rapid, reliable, and lightweight power sources.

Practical Applications

Co-lead author Dr Petar Jovanović emphasised the potential for diverse applications. “This represents a significant step toward making Li-S batteries feasible for long-haul EVs, aviation, and maritime industries, where lightweight and rapid power delivery are essential,” he said.

In EVs, the batteries could enable vehicles to travel an additional 1,000 kilometres on a single charge, with recharge times cut to just a few hours. “Imagine driving from Melbourne to Sydney without stopping to recharge, or charging your phone in minutes. This is the kind of transformation we’re working toward,” Dr Jovanović said.

The technology also aligns with the demands of aviation, offering dynamic performance suitable for take-off and cruising conditions. It provides an energy density of up to 400 Wh/kg, making it particularly attractive for eVTOL and electric aircraft.

Economic and Environmental Impact

Professor Mainak Majumder, co-lead researcher and Director of the ARC Research Hub for Advanced Manufacturing with 2D Materials, highlighted the environmental benefits. “Li-S batteries use materials that are more sustainable and abundant compared to lithium-ion alternatives, which often rely on limited and environmentally harmful resources like cobalt,” he said.

The innovation also positions Australia as a leader in a rapidly growing industry. With the global lithium-sulfur battery market projected to reach USD 209 million by 2028, Professor Majumder sees an opportunity for job creation and economic growth. “This emerging industry has the potential to establish Australia as a key player in the market,” he said.

Scaling Up for Commercialisation

Ghove Energy, Monash’s spin-off company, is actively raising pre-seed funding to accelerate the commercialisation process. The start-up plans to scale up the technology for larger cell production, targeting industries such as aviation and heavy transport.

Professor Majumder described the venture as a milestone in sustainable battery development. “Our new catalyst overcomes one of the last barriers to commercialisation – charging speed. With this breakthrough, we’re closer to delivering high-performance batteries that are safer, cheaper, and more efficient,” he said.

The team is also exploring new additives to further enhance charging and discharging rates while reducing lithium requirements.

Global Recognition

The research, supported by the US Air Force Office of Sponsored Research, underscores Monash’s expertise in advanced battery technologies. Professor Majumder said international collaborations have played a crucial role in the project’s success.

“This reflects the global recognition of the Monash team’s capabilities in pioneering renewable battery solutions,” he said.

You can read the paper, here.

Last Updated on November 26, 2024 by Nick Ross