Collaborative research from the UK’s Manchester Metropolitan University and University of Chester and Central South University in China demonstrates the use of graphene-based PLA to make energy storage devices. The study proves the viability of the simpler, cheaper way for 3D printing rechargeable batteries that can be used to store renewable energy.
Animated schematic of a recharging battery. Clip via Riley Senpai on YouTube
Rechargeable batteries – how do they work?
A Lithium-ion battery (also known as a Li-ion battery) is the removable power pack often found in digital cameras, UAV’s and phones for example. The battery is composed of a positive electrode (seen left in the image below), and a negative electrode (seen on the right).
Diagram of Li-ion battery setup. Image via A. Latz, J. Zausch, O. Iliev, Modeling of species and charge trans- port in Li-Ion Batteries based on non- equilibrium thermodynamics.
When powered, positive lithium ions are naturally attracted to the negative ions on the opposite side and they move to it. Eventually the negative electrode becomes so saturated with positive ions that it can’t fit any more into it, and so the battery runs out of charge.
To recharge, an electric current is passed through the current collectors to force the positive electrodes back to the other side.
