Low-cost, sustainable alternative to lithium-ion batteries found

Calcium ions could be used as a greener, more efficient, and less expensive energy storage alternative to lithium-ions in batteries because of its abundance and low cost, according to a study. The researchers from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in the US noted that long-term use of lithium-ion batteries comes with issues such as scarcity, high prices, and safety concerns.

“The vast majority of rechargeable battery products are based on lithium-ion technology, which is the gold standard in terms of performance,” said Nikhil Koratkar, a professor at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.