Few weeks back, ReVolt announced that they have developed new rechargeable zinc-air battery, which they will start shipping next year. Though the zinc-air battery can offer up to three times more capacity, it would only last about 200 charge cycles compared to lithium ion batteries that can last up to 1000 charge cycles. The main reason behind this lower number is that after few discharge/recharge cycles the liquid/gel electrolyte can become deactivated and dry up or get absorbed too deeply into the zinc pores.

A new battery technology developed by Fluidic Energy may solve the problem. The new technology called Metal-Air Ionic Liquid (MAIL), which uses ionic liquid salts in place of liquid to conduct electricity is much more stable and isn’t prone to drying and eventual decay. Also as the new battery can use metals denser than zinc to store much larger charge in the given volume.

Researchers at Fluidic Energy estimate that they can improve battery capacity by up to 900-1,600 watt-hours (Whr) per one kilogram (2.2 pounds) mass. That is 11 times more than lithium-ion batteries available today. The 1.25 pounds battery in 17-inch MacBook Pro holds 95Whr energy, which would become 511Whr if MAIL batteries were used. And in theory offer more than 40 hours of battery life in place of 8 hours.

The new technology is still in development stage and few challenges still remain, like selecting the right ionic liquid that offers the required properties, while still being inexpensive enough to make the technology viable. However, Fluidic Energy thinks that the Metal-Air Ionic Liquid battery technology has potential to cost less than lithium-ion and it should make it to market before competing battery technologies.
[Via Electronista]