R&D is providing solutions. MGSN covers ocean-to-energy research and entrepreneurial solutions.
Researchers at the University of Sydney have researched the viability of utilizing seawater to produce an alternative to lithium for Energy Storage from Renewable resources. The refinement of ocean water produces sulfur salt compounds. Sodium batteries are not new tech. The problem with the batteries that precluded widespread use is the need to provide a high-temperature source for efficacy.
According to the University of Sydney, research led by Dr. Shenlong Zhao from the University’s School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering department and his research team overcome the temperature barriers with “carbon-based electrodes to improve the reactivity of sulfur and the reversibility of reactions between sulfur and sodium”.
In fact, the University reports that “sodium sulfur battery is a more energy dense and less toxic alternative to lithium ion-batteries”.
The expectation is that the lab-scale battery will be the base for commercial grid-size prototype development. Proof of Concept deployment would be the natural step. Once the lawyers resolve the liability issues in prototype deployment, the scope of the study will be the efficacy of the battery and its ability for mass production.
If the development projections hold true, the societal implications are significant. Renewable Energy will have a cost-effective and sustainable storage solution. Harvesting Ocean water could scale to reduce the deleterious effects of the rising levels. Social Impact Entrepreneurs can develop clean refinement business models for build-out and employment in areas in need of investment and employment.
