As part of project SABERS—an acronym for Solid-state Architecture Batteries for Enhanced Rechargeability and Safety, NASA is testing a graphene battery that may have huge implications for sustainable transportation. Although electric vehicles present more eco-friendly options for transportation, lithium-ion batteries have a number of problems associated with them, including poor performance compared to other energy sources, "glacial charging speeds," the necessity of cooling packaging, fire hazard potential, and more.
NASA's graphene battery is being developed as a safer and more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries. The researchers are also hoping the graphene battery may unlock the potential of electric flight, which is something lithium-ion batteries will likely never do. NASA is working on making these batteries " powerful, light, fast to discharge, scalable to any application, and extremely safe."
Breakthrough Graphene Batteries
NASA's Work on Project Sabers is Extremely Important
Trend Themes
1. Graphene Batteries - Graphene batteries as a disruptive technology for electric vehicles, wearable devices, and emergency devices due to their higher energy density and safety features.
2. Solid-state Batteries - Solid-state batteries as a revolutionary technology that could address the shortcomings of current battery technology such as longer lifespan and safety features.
3. Electric Flight - Electric flight as a disruptive innovation that could change commercial aviation if a suitable battery technology is developed to meet the power and safety requirements of aircraft.
Industry Implications
1. Automotive Industry - Graphene batteries could disrupt the automotive industry by providing a safer and more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries for use in electric vehicles.
2. Consumer Electronics Industry - Solid-state batteries could disrupt the consumer electronics industry by providing a longer lifespan and safety features for wearable devices and emergency devices such as smoke alarms and medical devices.
3. Commercial Aviation Industry - Electric flight could disrupt the commercial aviation industry by reducing carbon emissions and operating costs if a suitable battery technology is developed.