Scientists find salt that makes batteries life 10x longer

Scientists at King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in Saudi Arabia have discovered a simple salt that can make water-based batteries last much longer.

The salt, zinc sulfate, helps stop unwanted chemical reactions that usually damage the battery’s anode, the part that stores and releases energy. These reactions are caused by “free water” water molecules that are not strongly bonded with anything else. Free water easily reacts with battery materials, reducing performance and lifespan.

The researchers found that zinc sulfate acts like a “water glue,” helping water molecules stick together in a way that prevents harmful reactions. This change in water behavior allowed batteries to last more than ten times longer during tests.

The research team says this method could work not only with zinc batteries but also with other types of metal-based aqueous batteries. Since sulfate salts are cheap, safe, and widely available, this approach could be used around the world.

Aqueous batteries are seen as a safer and more eco-friendly option compared to lithium-ion batteries, especially for storing solar and wind power. They don’t catch fire easily and are less harmful to the environment. However, their shorter lifespan has been a major drawback until now.

The KAUST team hopes this discovery will help make large-scale renewable energy storage more reliable and affordable in the future.