Iranian Scientists Use Graphene Aerogel to Improve Battery Industry
“In this project, nitrogen-doped graphene aerogel along with zinc oxide nanoparticles was synthesized using a simple and cost-effective chemical reduction method,” said Arash Qazi Tabaar, a PhD graduate in Materials Engineering from Amirkabir University of Technology and Assistant Professor at the Color Research Institute.
“The structure of this material has meso-macro porosity with a high specific surface area, which maximizes electrolyte permeability. Laboratory samples of batteries produced with this technology have shown longer lifespan and higher capacity compared to conventional batteries,” he added.
The innovation focuses on the use of 3D and nitrogen-doped graphene materials, which improve the conductivity and stability of electrodes, thereby enhancing battery performance under harsh operating conditions. Initial tests showed that samples made with this technology have higher durability and efficiency than conventional batteries.
This achievement can pave the way for upgrading the current generation of industrial batteries without the need for changes to production lines.
In a relevant development in 2023, an Iranian company had also used nano-based silica aerogel to manufacture thermal insulation blankets.
“Therefore, we seek to attract new customers for this capacity. Until now, the production capacity of thermal insulation blanket containing silica aerogel was 500 square meters per month, but we are increasing the capacity to 2,500 square meters per month,” said an official of the company.
“Reducing energy consumption in buildings is one of our plans; therefore, these nanoscale thermal insulators can meet the needs of manufacturers with low thickness,” he added.
“This insulation with a thickness of 6mm to 10 mm can reduce energy consumption by 45%. The existing insulators last less than half an hour at a temperature of 1,100 degrees Celsius, which is a disaster when fire occurs, but the silica aerogel insulation can last for several hours at a temperature of 1,100 degrees Celsius,” the official said.
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