Researchers at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, China, have demonstrated a new room‑temperature sodium–sulphur chemistry delivering 3.6V, marking a major step toward low‑cost, scalable energy storage.
The team say the approach, which relies on high‑valent sulphur redox reactions and a sodium dicyanamide electrolyte, could unlock safer, cheaper batteries for grid applications within the decade. The technology is estimated to cost around $5 (£3.62) per kilowatt-hour based on current material prices
The breakthrough comes from allowing S8 to react with SCl4 formed inside the cell, supported by a bismuth catalyst and the sodium dicyanamide electrolyte. This electrolyte enables reversible S/SCl4 conversion and improves sodium plating and stripping.
The design also removes the need for a built‑in sodium anode, with metallic sodium forming only during charging. Safety tests showed no ignition on puncture and rapid solidification of the electrolyte when exposed to air.
Challenges remain around electrolyte corrosiveness and SCl4 stability, but researchers believe these can be overcome. Small‑scale products are anticipated within three years and commercial systems within five. The research is published in the scientific journal Nature.
