CATHODE MATERIALS FOR SODIUM ION BATTERIES (Syllabus: GS Paper 3 - Sci & Tech)

Context: Scientists have developed sodium nickel manganese cobalt oxide and sodium nickel manganese iron oxide (Na-NMC and NFM) cathode materials along with novel sodium superionic conducting solid-state electrolytes designed specifically for sodium ion batteries. 

• The developed cylindrical cells and the resultant battery pack, has been developed under Ministry of Higher Education (MHE) and Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a statutory body under the Department of Science and Technology, supported IMPRINT II project.

Key Points

• The newly developed cathode materials can provide high capacity and prolonged battery life, enabling longer-lasting and more powerful sodium ion batteries. 
• The novel sodium superionic conducting solid-state electrolytes play a crucial role in efficiently transporting sodium ions within the battery.
• This breakthrough could enhance the battery's safety, stability, and energy density. 
• A compatible battery management system (BMS) and suitable charger were developed by the industry collaborator.
• Sodium ion batteries, which utilise sodium ions as charge carriers instead of lithium ions, offer numerous advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries. Important among these advantages are lower costs, abundance and chemistry of sodium ion batteries similar to lithium.
• Additionally, sodium's wider availability and reduced environmental impact make sodium ion batteries a more sustainable choice. 
• However, safety, stability and energy density of these batteries are challenges which need to be addressed.