The safety and performance of lithium-ion batteries could be significantly improved thanks to a new process that allows the production of large graphene current collectors. The breakthrough has been achieved by a team of Welsh-Chinese researchers.
Researchers at the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics (DICP) in China have made significant progress in the development of the Organic Flow Battery (OAAB): the new device retains 99.95% of its capacity after 850 charging cycles. This breakthrough was achieved with naphthalene-based organic redox-active molecules (ORAMs), marking a major milestone in battery technology.
The aerospace industry is undergoing a significant shift towards electrification as it seeks to mitigate the environmental impact of traditional aviation. Electric aircraft, powered by batteries or hybrid systems, are seen as the cornerstone of this transformation. While the technology is still in its infancy, the industry’s focus on reducing carbon emissions is driving innovation at an unprecedented pace
The development of electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicles hinges on creating aircraft that are both lightweight and durable. This necessity for weight reduction without sacrificing strength has pushed the boundaries of material science, requiring innovative solutions. Traditionally, aircraft have relied on aluminum alloys and titanium for their excellent strength-to-weight ratios. However, the needs of eVTOLs demand materials that can outperform these, particularly in the context of energy efficiency and sustainability.
China has emerged as a formidable force in the global battery industry, earning its moniker as a “battery superpower.” This ascendancy is not merely a matter of national pride; it carries profound implications for the future of electric aviation, particularly in the realms of electric planes and eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft. Let’s delve into the multifaceted significance of China’s battery dominance and its potential to reshape the skies.
In an era where climate change looms large and the aviation industry faces mounting pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, electric aircraft have emerged as a promising solution. However, the transition from fossil fuels to electricity in aviation isn’t as straightforward as plugging in a plane and taking off. The energy consumption of electric aircraft presents a complex challenge that engineers, researchers, and aviation enthusiasts are working tirelessly to solve.







