Protein batteries instead of lithium

ALLOWS SAFE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY ENERGY STORAGE

Scientists are seeking to produce sustainable batteries made up of proteins that will one day become an alternative to conventional lithium batteries, providing a safer environment.

“The synthetic peptides that make up proteins and other polymers can be used to make electrodes, opening the way for a new theory of transmission mechanisms,” the study, presented by US researchers today, said Monday. Electron. “

“Fortunately, the side chains of the atoms in the peptides can be controlled without changing the basic part of their structure,” said Tan Nguyen, a PhD student and co-author of the study, according to the accompanying press release. The lithium batteries currently in use are harmful to the environment, as the cost of recycling is more than the cost of manufacturing them, and therefore filled with landfills.There is currently no way to safely dispose of them, so making protein-based organic batteries may be the best solution to overcome this problem.

Karen Woolley, professor of chemistry and head of the research team at the University of Texas A&M, explains that the bonds of chemical compounds in the most important part of peptides are very stable, emphasizing sustainability and can also be easily recycled when broken. .

“We look forward to using peptides in some areas, such as rechargeable batteries, to store electrical energy,” says Wolley.Another advantage is that by using a protein form, naturally occurring forms in proteins can be constructed that allow the efficient transfer of electrons, a property that can be developed to control battery performance.

Researchers are trying to make prototypes of these batteries. The flexibility and diversity of protein forms offer great potential for storing sustainable energy that is safer for the environment.

“Organic batteries can be used efficiently in rechargeable types, but it may take years before this product goes on the market,” Woolley said, stressing the need to make sure how often the product can be reused with minimal environmental impact.

“In the long term, we aim to produce non-metallic, recyclable materials to make batteries in line with the circular economy – which minimizes waste and maximum use of resources – and to meet the need for sustainable, efficient, alternative energy sources (such as capacitors),” says Wolley. And a more sustainable world in the face of ever-increasing demand for energy technology.