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Industrial Research And Consultancy Centre
Patent
Electrochemical cell, method for synthesis of bio-derived carbon and preparation of electrode from bio-derived carbon
Problem Statement

Lithium-ion batteries, currently dominating the market, are facing challenges due to the limited availability and rising cost of lithium. Sodium-ion batteries offer a promising alternative but are currently hindered by the complexity and high cost of producing key components, particularly anode materials like hard carbon.

Abstract

This invention addresses the limitations of current sodium-ion battery technology by introducing a novel bio-derived carbon anode material. This low-cost, easily synthesized material offers excellent performance, paving the way for a more sustainable and affordable energy storage solution.

Uniqueness of the Solution
  • Simplified Synthesis: The bio-carbon anode synthesis involves a low-temperature process (500°C) without the need for an inert atmosphere, significantly reducing production costs to approximately $3/Kg compared to $5-15/Kg for hard carbon. 
  • Cost Reduction: By eliminating expensive additives and surface modification techniques, the overall cost of the sodium-ion battery technology is reduced. 
  • High Performance: The sodium-ion full cell demonstrates an energy density of 200 Wh/kg at a current density of 100 mA/g, making it a viable alternative for practical applications.
Prototype Details

Anode: Bio-derived carbon as the active material, with Super C65 conducting additive and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) binder. 

Cathode: Sodium vanadium phosphate (Na3V2(PO4)3) as the active material, Super C65, and PVDF binder. Separator: Borosilicate glass fiber soaked in 1M NaClO4 with 3 wt% fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC) electrolyte. Functional sodium-ion battery prototype using bio-derived carbon anode and Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode delivers an energy density of 200 Wh/kg at a current density of 100 mA/g.

Current Status of Technology

Functional sodium-ion battery prototype using bio-derived carbon anode and Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode delivers an energy density of 200 Wh/kg at a current density of 100 mA/g.

Technology readiness level

5

Societal Impact

This technology could revolutionize energy storage by providing a low-cost, sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries. Widespread adoption of sodium-ion batteries can facilitate the transition to renewable energy sources.

Relevant Industries, Domains and Applications

Grid Storage, Renewable Energy Storage, Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Applications or Domain
  • Grid-scale energy storage 
  • Stationary energy storage 
  • Consumer electronics

Geography of IP

Type of IP

Application Number

201841036449

Filing Date
Grant Number

413867

Grant Date
Assignee(s)
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay
**This IP is owned by IIT Bombay**