Researchers at Florida International University (FIU) have unveiled a lithium-sulfur battery technology that could significantly enhance electric vehicle (EV) performance by increasing range and reducing charging times.
The innovation addresses key shortcomings of lithium-ion batteries by offering a lighter, more cost-effective, and energy-dense alternative.
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Lithium-sulfur batteries have long been considered a promising next-generation energy storage solution, but their commercial viability has been hindered by limited lifespan—typically lasting only 50 charge cycles before significant degradation.
FIU researchers have developed a method to stabilize the battery’s performance by incorporating a trace amount of platinum, which helps prevent the formation of efficiency-reducing polysulfides.
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“Adding nanoparticles of platinum to the battery is like adding a pinch of salt to food: A small amount can have an outsized impact,” said Bilal El-Zahab, Associate Professor at FIU. The modification has extended battery longevity, with 92% capacity retention after 500 cycles, bringing the technology closer to commercial readiness.
The research team, led by postdoctoral researcher Aqsa Nazir, published its findings in Energy and Environmental Materials and is now undergoing third-party validation. “We achieved a 92% retention after 500 charging cycles, which means the battery is nearly as good as new,” Nazir said. “It also shows we minimized the negative reactions that hurt overall performance to bring this battery to the commercial level.”
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With EV adoption accelerating, advances in battery technology are critical to addressing consumer concerns over range and charging times. A recent survey found that 46% of U.S. EV owners have considered switching back to gasoline vehicles due to charging challenges. FIU’s lithium-sulfur battery could offer a lighter, more affordable alternative to lithium-ion technology, helping meet the industry’s growing demand for longer-range, faster-charging solutions.