S.B.G & CIG Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs)

 

S.B.G & CIG Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs)

FULL SCALE RENEWABLE AUTO+ BATTERIES 

By Dr Sydney Nicola Bennett at S.B.G of CIG for Switch-Back systems 

REMOVING CHARGE STATIONS GLOBALLY 

While we will require some for specific models the new reliance on Dr Sydney Nicola Bennett's Switch-Back Emergency Safety System is something any company can pay a fee for use in any unit woth an application + manual override 

You just need to equip an external battery recharging effort as a retrofitted kit onto axels with an idle & motion charger 

Unlimited Range for all EV Battery Electrics like Piston-Punch Wind Tunnel designs. Ground Up & Retrofit Kits 

Carbon Black Material. Fast-Grown Zero Emissions + Zero Cycle practice standard 

COMPONENTS

Utilizing Brine Material from Ocean Salt Water desalination then re-use 

Cathode

Made of sodium-rich materials like layered transition metal oxides. Other examples include Prussian white and sodium manganese oxide

A saltwater brine can be used as the electrolyte in a battery, but it's more common to find it as the electrolyte in flow batteries, where it acts as a medium for ion exchange. In a saltwater battery, the cathode material can be a metal, like copper or zinc, or even oxygen dissolved in the saltwater itself. The saltwater provides the sodium ions for the battery, and the cathode material facilitates their reaction during discharge. 

Renewable + fast grown choice in all areas possible 

COPPER 2 COMPOSITE + OXYGEN DESOLATE 

This transitions market Copper to a refined battery cycle copper only increasing yeilds from Copper 1 to void theft solely utilizing excess crystal zed processed Copper for batteries as a conductor cathode 

Anode

Made of hard carbon, which provides a suitable structure for sodium intercalation.

Renewable + fast grown choice in all areas possible 

SEE RENEWABLE CARBON BLACK TIRES

Reference Link

https://2026sydpersonal.blogspot.com/2025/08/sbg-cig-sustainable-tires.html

Electrolyte

Made of sodium hexafluorophosphate in an organic solvent

Renewable + fast grown choice in all areas possible 

BRINE FROM DESALINATION COMPONENTS 

Separator

Made of separator is vital for preventing short circuits between the cathode and anode

Renewable + fast grown choice in all areas possible 

INDUSTRY ATTEMPTS 

Salt Water Batteries. Industry attempts

Anode Carbon
Cathode Maganese Oxide
Electrolyte Concentrated Saleen Solition

Reference

https://youtu.be/iL2O4AgsMNY?si=rDDmjtdTfE6butff

https://www.aquionenergy.com/technology/

INDUSTRY REFERENCE 

Sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) consist of three main components: a cathode, an anode, and an electrolyte. The cathode is typically made from sodium-based materials, the anode often uses carbon-based materials, and the electrolyte facilitates ion movement between the electrodes. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Cathode:
This component is crucial for energy storage and is usually made of sodium-rich materials like layered transition metal oxides. Other examples include Prussian white and sodium manganese oxide. The cathode's ability to efficiently store and release sodium ions directly impacts the battery's performance. 

• Anode:
The anode serves as the storage site for sodium ions during charging. It's often made of carbon-based materials, such as hard carbon, which provides a suitable structure for sodium intercalation. 

• Electrolyte:
This component is essential for ion transport between the cathode and anode during charging and discharging. It can be a liquid or a solid, depending on the battery design. Commonly used electrolytes include sodium hexafluorophosphate in an organic solvent. 

• Separator:
While not always explicitly listed as a key component, a separator is vital for preventing short circuits between the cathode and anode. 

RENEWABLE ANODES 

Renewable anodes refer to anode materials used in batteries and electrochemical devices that are derived from sustainable and replenishable sources, rather than finite resources like mined minerals. These anodes aim to reduce the environmental impact of energy storage technologies and promote a more circular economy. 

Examples of renewable anode materials:

• Lignin-based carbon:
Stora Enso's Lignode® is a hard carbon material made from lignin, a byproduct of pulp production. Lignin is a renewable resource derived from wood, making this anode material sustainable and scalable, according to Stora Enso. 

• Biomass-derived carbon:
Chitin, a component of insect exoskeletons and crustacean shells, can be converted into hard carbon for use as a renewable anode material in sodium-ion batteries. 

• Iron and manganese-based anodes:
These materials, while not strictly renewable, are derived from abundant earth materials and can be used in sodium-ion and potassium-ion batteries, offering a more sustainable alternative to lithium-ion battery materials. 

• Silicon-based anodes:
Silicon, while not a renewable resource, can be sourced from abundant materials like sand and can offer higher energy density than traditional graphite anodes, contributing to more efficient energy storage. 

Benefits of renewable anodes:

• Reduced environmental impact:
By using sustainable and replenishable resources, renewable anodes minimize the environmental footprint of battery production and disposal.

• Resource availability:
Renewable resources like lignin and biomass are readily available and can be sourced locally, reducing reliance on mined materials and supply chain disruptions.

• Improved sustainability:
Renewable anodes contribute to a more circular economy by utilizing byproducts and waste streams, promoting resource efficiency and waste reduction.

• Cost reduction:
In some cases, renewable anode materials can be more cost-effective than traditional materials, further incentivizing their adoption. 


SALT WATER AS AN ELECTROLYTE NOT CATHODE 

Saltwater can be used as an electrolyte in a battery, but using it as a cathode material is not typical. While saltwater can facilitate the flow of ions in a battery (acting as an electrolyte), it doesn't inherently possess the electrochemical properties needed to serve as a cathode material, which is responsible for storing and releasing electrons. Cathodes typically require specific materials with high capacity for ion storage and efficient electron transfer. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

1. Saltwater as an Electrolyte:

• Function:
In a battery, the electrolyte facilitates the movement of ions between the anode and cathode.

• Saltwater's role:
A saltwater solution (like sodium chloride in water) can act as an electrolyte by allowing sodium ions to move between the electrodes.

• Limitations:
However, saltwater itself doesn't offer the necessary electrochemical properties for energy storage as a cathode material. 

2. Cathode Materials:

• Requirements:
Cathode materials need to be able to readily accept and release ions (like lithium ions in lithium-ion batteries) and electrons during charge and discharge cycles. 

• Examples:
Common cathode materials include lithium cobalt oxide, lithium iron phosphate, and others with specific crystal structures and chemical compositions. 

• Why saltwater isn't used:
Saltwater lacks the structural and chemical characteristics to act as an effective cathode material for long-term energy storage. 

3. Potential Applications of Saltwater in Batteries:

• Electrolyte:
Saltwater can be used as a component of the electrolyte in certain types of batteries, especially those designed for specific applications or with different chemistries. 

• Discharge of batteries:
In some cases, saltwater solutions are used for controlled discharge of batteries, particularly in situations where safety is a concern. This is often done to neutralize or discharge the battery before disposal. 
In summary, while saltwater can be used in batteries as an electrolyte, it's not a suitable cathode material due to its inability to store and release energy efficiently. Cathodes require specific materials with suitable electrochemical properties for effective battery operation. 


SALT WATER AS AN ELECTROLYTE NOT CATHODE ANODE 

While salt water can be used as an electrolyte, it's not ideal for use as an anode material in a battery. The main issue is that during electrolysis, the current in a salt water solution tends to liberate chlorine gas, which is toxic and requires special precautions. Additionally, salt water batteries often face challenges with dendrite formation and low energy density. 

Here's why salt water is not a good choice for a battery anode:

• Chlorine Gas Production:
When using salt water as an electrolyte and passing a current, chlorine gas (Cl2) is produced at the anode. This is a toxic and corrosive gas, requiring special handling and safety measures. 

• Limited Anode Materials:
While salt water can be used as an electrolyte, it's not a good anode material. Traditional anode materials like graphite or silicon are used in lithium-ion batteries to store and release ions. Salt water doesn't have the same ability to store and release ions in a controlled manner. 

• Dendrite Formation:
In some battery configurations, particularly with sodium-ion batteries, the use of metallic sodium anodes can lead to dendrite formation, which can cause short circuits and reduce battery lifespan. 

• Energy Density:
The energy density of salt water batteries is typically lower compared to other battery chemistries. This means they may not be able to store as much energy for a given size or weight. 

However, there is research into using salt water as an electrolyte and other materials like sodium or magnesium as anodes, especially in the context of seawater batteries. These batteries aim to utilize the abundance of sodium ions in seawater as a key component, but they still face challenges in terms of performance and durability. 


SALTWATER BRINE + LITHIUM EXTRACTION

A saltwater brine separator, in the context of battery recycling or extraction, refers to a system that separates lithium from brine solutions, often those produced during lithium extraction from salt lakes or seawater desalination. These systems can utilize various technologies, including electrochemical processes and ion exchange, to selectively extract lithium and convert it into battery-grade materials. This is crucial for sustainable battery production and resource management. 
Here's a breakdown of the concept and related technologies:

1. Lithium Extraction from Brine:

• Salt Lake Brine:
Lithium is often found in high concentrations in salt lake brines, which are then processed to extract lithium. 

• Seawater Desalination:
Reverse osmosis (RO) desalination produces brine, and this RO brine can also be a source of lithium. 

• Brine Concentration:
The brine is typically concentrated through processes like solar evaporation or other methods to increase the lithium concentration. 

2. Separation and Purification Technologies:

• Electrochemical Extraction:
This involves using an electric field to selectively extract lithium ions from the brine and deposit them as a battery-grade material, like lithium carbonate. 

• Ion Exchange:
Lithium-selective ion-exchange sorbents can be used to adsorb lithium ions from the brine, followed by elution to recover the lithium. 

• Precipitation:
Lithium can be precipitated out of the brine as lithium carbonate or lithium phosphate, depending on the conditions and desired outcome. 

3. Battery Applications:

• Anode and Cathode Materials:
The extracted lithium can be directly used to synthesize cathode materials like LiMn2O4 or LiNixMnyCozO2, or refined into lithium hydroxide or lithium carbonate for use in battery anodes. 

• Anode-Free Batteries:
In some advanced battery designs, like anode-free sodium metal batteries, the anode material is plated from the electrolyte during charging, and the brine can be a source of the lithium ions. 

4. Importance of Saltwater Brine Separation:

• Sustainable Lithium Sourcing:
Extracting lithium from brines is considered a more sustainable approach than traditional hard-rock mining.

• Reduced Environmental Impact:
Brine extraction can have a lower environmental footprint compared to mining and processing spodumene, a common lithium ore.

• Resource Availability:
This technology can potentially expand access to lithium resources, as it can utilize various sources like seawater and industrial brines.

• Battery Recycling:
Brine separation technologies are also relevant for recovering lithium from spent batteries. 

In summary, saltwater brine separators are crucial for sustainable battery production, enabling the efficient and environmentally responsible extraction of lithium from various sources, including brines and even battery waste. 

SALTWATER BRINE TO ELECTROLYTE 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

1. Saltwater as an Electrolyte:

• Saltwater, a solution of salt (like NaCl) in water, can act as an electrolyte, allowing ions to flow between the anode and cathode. 

• It's a readily available and relatively inexpensive electrolyte compared to some specialized battery materials. 

• In flow batteries, the saltwater solution can be pumped through the cell, allowing for large-scale energy storage. 

2. Cathode Materials:

• Metal Electrodes:
In some simple saltwater battery setups, metals like copper or zinc can be used as the cathode, where reduction reactions occur during discharge. 

• Oxygen as a Cathode:
In seawater batteries, oxygen dissolved in the saltwater can act as a cathode, reacting with sodium ions to produce electricity. 

• Other Materials:
Research explores using various materials like metal oxides or compounds for cathodes in saltwater batteries, aiming for improved performance. 

3. Applications:

• Flow Batteries:
Saltwater is a common electrolyte in flow batteries, which are used for large-scale energy storage, like grid-scale energy storage. 

• Simple Battery Projects:
Saltwater can be used in science projects to demonstrate basic battery principles. 

• Emerging Battery Technologies:
Research is ongoing to develop more advanced saltwater batteries for various applications, including grid storage and potentially even powering vehicles. 

4. Considerations:

• Energy Density:
Saltwater batteries generally have lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries, meaning they store less energy for a given size or weight. 

• Corrosion:
Saltwater can be corrosive, so materials used in saltwater battery systems need to be carefully chosen and protected. 

• Overcharging:
Overcharging a saltwater battery can lead to electrolysis of the water, potentially releasing harmful gases. 

Salt Brine from Desalination

https://youtu.be/9X-ht85YYsI?si=IXfsiiOvLBiBDi_p

LITHIUM FROM SALT WATER FOR LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES 

The DLE practice while all excess materials are utilized in the zero emissions & zero cycle process voiding unsafe toxins 

Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE), uses specialized materials to selectively absorb lithium from the brine, which can be more efficient and environmentally friendly. 

In description:

Lithium can be extracted from salt water (also known as brine) for use in lithium-ion batteries, though it's currently more common to extract it from lithium-rich brines found in salt flats. One method involves using solar evaporation to concentrate the lithium in the brine, followed by chemical processing to isolate the lithium. Another method, Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE), uses specialized materials to selectively absorb lithium from the brine, which can be more efficient and environmentally friendly. 

Here's a more detailed look:

1. Traditional Brine Extraction (Solar Evaporation):

• Brine Collection:
Lithium-rich brine, often from underground deposits or salt flats, is pumped to the surface. 

• Solar Evaporation:
The brine is pumped into large evaporation ponds, where sunlight gradually evaporates the water, concentrating the lithium and other salts. 

• Chemical Processing:
The concentrated brine is then treated with chemicals to precipitate out unwanted elements like magnesium and boron. 

• Lithium Precipitation:
Further chemical treatment with substances like sodium carbonate precipitates out lithium carbonate, a key component for batteries. 

• Washing and Drying:
The precipitated lithium carbonate is then washed and dried to produce the final product. 

2. Direct Lithium Extraction (DLE):

• Brine Collection:
Brine is collected from sources like geothermal plants or oilfield wastewater.

• Extraction:
The brine is passed through a material designed to selectively absorb lithium ions, while other elements flow through.

• Purification:
The lithium is then removed from the absorbent material and purified.

• Conversion:
The purified lithium is converted into battery-grade lithium carbonate or hydroxide.

• Brine Disposal:
The remaining brine is often returned to its source or disposed of responsibly. 

3. Other Methods:

• Electrochemical Extraction:
This method uses electrodes to selectively extract lithium ions from brine. 

• Membrane Filtration:
Techniques like reverse osmosis and nanofiltration can be used to concentrate and purify lithium from brine. 

4. Challenges:

• Water Consumption:
Traditional solar evaporation can be very water-intensive, which can be a concern in arid regions. 

• Environmental Impact:
Both traditional and DLE methods can have environmental impacts, such as the disposal of chemical waste or potential brine contamination. 

• Cost and Efficiency:
Developing and scaling up new extraction technologies can be costly and time-consuming. 

SEA OR OCEAN WATER CONVERSION STUDIES & TESTS 

Raw Seawater or Oceanwater

Raw ocean water, or seawater, can be a suitable electrolyte for some types of batteries, specifically seawater batteries. These batteries utilize the naturally occurring salt solution found in seawater, offering a potential alternative to traditional battery chemistries like lithium-ion. Seawater provides both the anode (sodium) and cathode (oxygen) materials for certain battery designs. 

Here's a more detailed look:

Seawater as an Electrolyte:

• Natural Resource:
Seawater is abundant, covering 70% of the Earth's surface, making it a readily available resource for energy storage. 

• Safety:
It's a relatively safe electrolyte compared to some other battery chemistries. 

• Direct Use:
Seawater can be directly used in some battery designs without significant pre-processing. 

• Sodium-ion Batteries:
Some seawater battery designs utilize sodium ions extracted from the seawater during charging. 

• Oxygen Reduction:
In some designs, oxygen dissolved in seawater acts as an oxidant at the cathode. 

Advantages of Seawater Batteries:

• Cost-Effectiveness: Seawater batteries can be more cost-effective than lithium-ion batteries. 

• Potential for Large-Scale Storage: They offer a potential solution for large-scale energy storage, particularly for renewable energy sources like solar and wind. 

• Environmental Benefits: Seawater batteries can reduce reliance on traditional mining for battery materials. 

Challenges and Considerations:

• Corrosion:
Saltwater is corrosive and can damage battery components if not properly managed. 

• Lower Energy Density:
Seawater batteries may have lower energy density compared to lithium-ion batteries. 

• Scale and Volume:
They can require a larger volume of electrolyte compared to other battery types. 

• Material Durability:
Finding durable electrode materials that can withstand the corrosive nature of seawater is crucial. 

• Water Quality:
The composition of seawater can vary, which may affect battery performance. 

Ongoing Research and Development:

• Researchers are actively working on improving the performance and durability of seawater batteries. 

• They are exploring advanced materials and designs to overcome the challenges associated with using seawater. 

• Efforts are also focused on optimizing the extraction of lithium and other valuable metals from seawater brine. 

In conclusion, while raw ocean water can be used in certain battery technologies, it requires careful consideration of the challenges and ongoing research to ensure optimal performance and durability. 

OPTIONS STILL EXIST 

While raw ocean water cannot be directly used in lithium-ion batteries due to its corrosive nature and low lithium concentration, researchers are exploring methods to extract lithium from seawater for use in batteries. The challenge lies in the low lithium concentration and the presence of interfering ions, making direct use impractical. 

Here's a breakdown of the situation:
Why raw ocean water isn't suitable for lithium-ion batteries:

• Corrosion:
Saltwater is highly corrosive to the materials used in traditional lithium-ion batteries, leading to degradation and short circuits, potentially causing fires. 

• Low Lithium Concentration:
Seawater contains very low concentrations of lithium (around 0.1-0.2 ppm), making it difficult and uneconomical to extract sufficient lithium for battery production using traditional methods. 

• Interfering Ions:
Seawater contains a multitude of other ions, such as sodium and magnesium, which interfere with lithium extraction and battery performance. 

Efforts to extract lithium from seawater:

• Membrane Technologies:
Researchers are developing specialized membranes, like solid-state electrolyte membranes, to selectively extract lithium from seawater. For example, one study used a solid-state electrolyte membrane to enrich lithium from seawater by 43,000 times, producing lithium phosphate with 99.94% purity, according to a Reddit post. 

• Aqueous Batteries:
Another approach involves developing aqueous batteries that can utilize seawater as an electrolyte. Researchers are working on materials for anodes that can withstand the harsh conditions of seawater and have high energy storage capacity. 

• Desalination Brine:
Desalination plants produce brine that contains a higher concentration of lithium than seawater. This brine is being explored as a potential source for lithium extraction. 

• Hybrid Technologies:
Researchers are investigating hybrid technologies that combine different methods, such as electrochemical extraction and membrane technologies, to improve the efficiency and sustainability of lithium recovery from seawater, according to a review on ScienceDirect. 

In conclusion, while raw ocean water is not directly usable in lithium-ion batteries, research is actively exploring ways to extract lithium from seawater and develop battery technologies that can utilize it, paving the way for more sustainable energy storage solutions. 

Lithium recovery process from desalination wastewater. In this study, seawater was desalinated to produce freshwater and the resulting wastewater was electrolyzed to produce NaOH. The resulting NaOH solution was used to adjust the pH of the wastewater and separate metal cations, including lithium

ANOTHER LOOK 

Seawater desalination can be a source for extracting lithium for batteries, although it's not a direct process. Instead, lithium is typically extracted from the concentrated brine byproduct of desalination plants, using various techniques like solvent extraction, selective membrane separation, or electrodialysis. This approach offers a potentially more sustainable and cost-effective way to produce lithium, especially as demand for batteries continues to rise. 

Here's a more detailed explanation:

1. Desalination and Brine:

• Seawater desalination plants produce purified water and a concentrated brine solution. 

• This brine, often discarded, is rich in minerals, including lithium. 

2. Lithium Extraction from Brine:

• Various techniques are employed to extract lithium from the brine, including:

• Solvent extraction: Using specific solvents to selectively separate lithium ions from other elements. 

• Selective membrane separation: Utilizing membranes that allow lithium ions to pass through while blocking others. 

• Electrodialysis: Using an electric field to separate ions, including lithium. 

• Stanford researchers: have developed a new technology that can extract lithium from brines at a lower cost than traditional methods and with greater sustainability. 
3. Benefits of this Approach:

• Cost-effective: Lithium extraction from brine can be more economical than traditional mining. 

• Sustainable: Utilizes a waste product of desalination, reducing environmental impact. 

• Potential for circular economy: The process can be integrated with renewable energy sources like green hydrogen production, creating a closed-loop system. 

4. Ongoing Research and Development:

• Researchers are actively developing new and improved methods for lithium extraction from brines. 

• Projects like the Brine Miner project in Oregon are exploring the potential of extracting lithium and other valuable metals from desalination waste using green hydrogen. 

• Other research focuses on optimizing the selectivity of extraction processes and developing more efficient membrane technologies. 

5. Future Outlook:

• The increasing demand for lithium for batteries makes seawater a potentially valuable resource for future lithium supply.

• Further advancements in extraction technologies could make lithium from desalination brine a significant contributor to the lithium supply chain. 

THE KEY & TRICK TO SCALABILITY

A low cost low energy filter where items are separated then some are retained then others returned & placed back like hobby fishing in the desalination practice on a larger scale

This is a safe form of ocean mining without negativity affecting mammals or eco-systens for the renewable resources which are the salt water & variable contents within 

A simple angle mesh to such in water to be processed pushes any marine biological life like a slip stream current or underwater slide safely while sucking in water that is to be processed voiding damage to marine life utilizing a safe mesh design & filters with exit points in sections while after 3+ we have the product ready to be filtered & sent back or brought in for further processing in a 2+ stage safe effort 

Sustainable Ocean Salt Water Mining 

INDUSTRY REFERENCE 

SALTWATER BATTERIES - INDUSTRY REFERENCE 

Saltwater batteries are already available, but manufacturers find it quite difficult to produce. Nevertheless, here are some quick facts about them.

Battery Introduction

Saltwater batteries are similar in design to other batteries. Much like the name suggests, saltwater batteries use sodium as the primary element for energy storage instead of lithium. That makes these batteries less toxic, but while sodium is abundant, they can be relatively expensive.

Advantages of This Battery Type

Saltwater batteries come with a long list of advantages over other battery technologies thanks to the change in element composition. For one thing, saltwater batteries are significantly less flammable than other types of liquid batteries. They also offer improved safety since the batteries don’t use many of the toxic chemicals and acids other batteries rely on.

Not using those toxic chemicals and acids also makes saltwater batteries significantly easier to recycle.
Saltwater batteries also tend to have a relatively long life cycle and don’t burn out easily. That makes them a reasonable option for new solar battery technology as well.

When Can We Expect It?

Some saltwater batteries are available, but challenges in manufacturing costs mean that saltwater batteries aren’t advancing as quickly as some alternatives. Saltwater batteries also aren’t as dense as many of the alternatives, which means size can be a challenge for manufacturers as well. So, while some are available, more advanced versions of saltwater batteries may be slow to release.

https://www.aquionenergy.com/technology/

APPRECIATION 

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People like Trophies & gift baskets with incentive or lottery prizes. Useful & appreciation items & a sound professional + private record of performance then eve ts with safe activity for moral building amongst minds of a conscience & morals or close to + aware of

Quality of life. Goals. Plans achievements 

Now collective asteroid mining & non-fall out exploding of to void damage to Earth utilizing safe technologies 

A RECYCLING 250-500 KM BATTERY 

Unlimited Range. Equivalent life cycle to 2025 industry standards 

S.B.G & CIG M.D.E - CIG 105+ kWh EV Battery Switch-Back Systems

Integrated Emergency Safety System

An accumulation effort allows us to reach a repeating Switch-Back effort for 250-500 Km unlimited range recycle as batteries deplete then self-recharge

S.B.G & CIG M.D.E - C/M - MICRO-PUNCH EV

This is a micro retrofit kits or ground up instalation provided you are using EV Battery electric with an Emergency Safety System integrated

Because you are not doing direct to EV Energy or an Air Compressor to Air Motor & Switch-Back system it is direct to recharge the EV Battery Switch-Back tablets in line sequence as they depleat in idle or motion
Smaller. A compact system with advsnced monitoring & safety woth less material

IN REVIEW 

Salt Water Batteries

From desalination for fresh water

Filtered & return
Filtered freshwater
Filtered & keep - Lithium & trace particulate
Filtered & keep - Salt

Saltwater batteries, also known as sodium-ion batteries, are made from a saltwater electrolyte, carbon-based materials, and manganese oxide electrodes, with sodium ions acting as the charge carriers. Unlike lithium-ion batteries, they don't rely on rare metals like lithium or cobalt, making them a safer and more sustainable alternative. 

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• Saltwater Electrolyte: 
The core of the battery is a solution of salt (sodium chloride) and water, which acts as the electrolyte, facilitating the movement of ions. 

• Electrodes: 
The electrodes, typically made of carbon-based materials (like carbon felt) and manganese oxide, are where the electrochemical reactions occur. 

• Sodium Ions: 
Sodium ions, derived from the salt in the electrolyte, are the key charge carriers that move between the electrodes during charge and discharge. 

• Separator: 
A separator, like nafion, is often used to prevent the electrodes from short-circuiting while allowing ion transport. 
The simplicity of the materials used (salt, water, carbon, and manganese oxide) makes saltwater batteries a potentially safer and more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional batteries. 

Saltwater batteries: What you need to know

Lithium-ion batteries dominate the energy storage market with their proven technology and continuously falling costs. Lithium-ion isn’t the only storage technology available, however: saltwater batteries are another option that has been around in some form for years now and have the potential to impact the energy storage landscape in a big way in the coming years.

What are saltwater batteries?

Just like any battery technology, saltwater batteries store electricity for use at a later time. The main difference between saltwater batteries and other energy storage options (for example, lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries) is their chemistry. In saltwater batteries, a liquid solution of salt water is used to capture, store, and eventually discharge energy. Whereas a traditional lithium-ion battery uses lithium as its primary ingredient for conducting electricity, a saltwater battery uses sodium, the same element found in table salt.

Advantages of saltwater batteries

Saltwater batteries have many advantages as a result of their chemistry. Here are a few that have helped make them a potential energy storage technology of the future, including when paired with a solar panel system:

Safety

While commercially-available batteries (like the Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem RESU) are safe for use, saltwater batteries excel in this category. The saltwater in the system means that there is essentially no fire risk with saltwater battery technology. Additionally, saltwater batteries don’t use the same toxic metals and other materials that most lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries use.

Easily recyclable

Another advantage of the lack of heavy metals and toxic materials in saltwater batteries is that they’re easier to recycle. As the use of batteries continues to increase worldwide, having plans for recycling used battery components will be essential to making batteries a truly sustainable energy technology.

Long lifecycle

Saltwater batteries have long lifecycles, which means they can be used for longer periods than many other battery options on the market. This has many implications - for example, you likely wouldn’t have to replace a saltwater battery as often as you would with most lithium-ion batteries, which can save you money in the long run.

So...where are all of the saltwater batteries?

With so many advantages to this technology, you’d think that saltwater batteries would be installed with every residential solar panel system and widely used for utility-scale storage projects. However, that’s not the case, and there are a few key reasons why.
The biggest hurdle for saltwater batteries reaching the mass market is upfront cost - specifically, their cost compared to the established market-leading technology:

 lithium-ion batteries. The cost of lithium-ion batteries has fallen exponentially over the past several years while we’re just beginning to experiment with saltwater battery options.

One of the most apparent problems related to the cost of saltwater batteries is their size. Saltwater batteries have a lower energy density than lithium-ion batteries, meaning they store less energy in the same amount of space. This is problematic because a lower energy density means a larger physical battery, and larger batteries use more materials and cost more to produce. As lithium-ion battery prices continue to fall,

 the cost challenge for saltwater batteries will only become more prevalent. Until saltwater batteries are produced at a large scale, the price will likely continue to be the largest barrier to their commercial availability.

This problem played out with saltwater battery manufacturer Aquion, a company that raised significant funding from Bill Gates and other impressive investors before collapsing into bankruptcy in 2017. Aquion promised all the benefits of saltwater batteries mentioned above and even installed a few battery systems before the financial challenge of scaling fast enough took down the company.

The future is uncertain for saltwater batteries. Their lower energy density means that one potentially more practical application is in larger grid storage systems where space is less of a concern than with smaller residential and commercial storage setups. Still, these costs will be a huge challenge to any saltwater battery companies that pop up.

Compare your solar options on EnergySage

Luckily, there are plenty of proven and available energy storage options that you can buy and install on your property. With any large purchase like solar and batteries (paired or separately), you want to consider your options. You can sign up on the EnergySage Marketplace to receive turnkey quotes for solar installation from pre-screened local solar installers. If battery storage is something you’re interested in pairing with your system, we recommend adding a note in your account preferences specifying you’re interested in pricing and information about batteries. Even if a solar installer doesn’t install batteries themselves, they can design a solar panel system so that you can add a battery later down the line.

https://www.energysage.com/energy-storage/types-of-batteries/saltwater-batteries/

S.B.G & CIG