Chalmers shows progress in structural batteries

Researchers at Chalmers University of Technology have developed a special carbon fibre material – a load-bearing material that can also store energy. The technology, so-called structural batteries, could in the long run be of great significance for the vehicle and aviation industries, among others. Perhaps we will soon see aeroplanes and drones that generate their own electricity, something Chalmers has already demonstrated with a flashlight that is its own battery. The solution is based on structural batteries that combine load-bearing function and energy storage, allowing electricity to be stored directly in a product's construction instead of in separate batteries. This carbon fibre-based technology could reduce both weight and energy consumption by replacing traditional battery packs and construction materials. Potential applications exist in drones, electronics, and the vehicle, aviation, and space industries, where weight savings are particularly important. While the researchers have made clear progress, technical challenges remain, including achieving the same energy density and power as conventional lithium-ion batteries