Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) researchers made a powerful hybrid sodium-ion battery that charges in seconds. Because sodium is nearly 1000 times more common than lithium, sodium-ion energy storage devices are more attractive than lithium-ion ones.

Led by Professor Jeung Ku Kang from the Department of Materials Science and Engineering, the research team integrated anode materials typically used in batteries with cathodes suitable for super-capacitors.

The blend boosted the battery’s storage capacity and quick charge-discharge abilities. The research suggests it could be a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries in the future. The battery could meet growing needs for affordable energy storage with long-lasting power and quick charging. It could serve various uses from small gadgets to electric cars and large-scale energy grids.