Researchers at the University of Alberta have made a major advance in water-based battery technology, potentially offering a safer, lower-cost alternative to lithium-ion cells.
The team, led by materials scientist Xiaolei Wang and student Zhixiao Xu, developed pressurised organic electrodes that significantly improve energy density, conductivity and stability in aqueous batteries.
Unlike lithium-ion batteries, which use flammable organic solvents, a water-based battery relies on water-based electrolytes. While historically limited by poor conductivity and low energy storage, the new electrode design enables faster charging, longer lifespan, and greater energy retention – outperforming most organic battery systems.
“Aqueous batteries are cheaper, easily disposed of because we use just water, and aren’t toxic or flammable,” said Wang. The team tested both coin-sized cells and larger prototypes, with plans to scale the technology for industrial energy storage and potentially electric vehicles.
The breakthrough, published in Nature Communications, marks a step toward safer, scalable battery solutions for grid and transport applications. Wang’s team is now seeking industry partners to support commercial development.
Image: Engineering researchers Zhixiao Xu (pictured) and Xiaolei Wang have found a way to make rechargeable water-based batteries perform far better than those currently available. Credit: Canadian Light Source via Facebook.
