Graphene battery: Hype becomes a fast-charging reality

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• February 23, 2022

Insight summary

Graphene is making waves in energy storage due to its unique properties, such as high surface area, strength, flexibility, and efficient electrical conductivity. Startups are harnessing these properties to develop batteries that outperform traditional ones, promising longer run times, reduced carbon footprints, and faster charging times, particularly for electric vehicles (EVs). Despite the high production costs currently hindering widespread adoption, the potential of graphene batteries could transform various sectors, from household appliances to renewable energy systems.

Graphene context

Graphene, the thinnest form of graphite known to us, is a material that has been gaining attention in the field of energy storage. This material is composed of a single layer of carbon atoms, which gives it a high surface area relative to its volume. This unique property makes it an excellent choice for use in batteries and supercapacitors. The thinness of graphene, combined with its strength, flexibility, and lightweight nature, makes it an efficient conductor of electricity. It also offers low resistance to heat energy, which is a critical factor in battery performance. 

Startups are already leveraging the potential of graphene in battery technology. For instance, Nanograf has reported that their batteries exhibit a 50 percent increase in run time compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. In addition, they have noted a 25 percent decrease in the total carbon footprint of their batteries, and a reduction in weight by half for the same output. 

Another startup, Real Graphene, is utilizing the durability of graphene to create batteries that can handle a more powerful electric current. This feature is particularly important for EVs, which require batteries that can withstand high levels of stress. Although the testing period for EV batteries typically lasts three to four years, Real Graphene is optimistic about the potential of their technology. They believe that their graphene-based batteries could charge a standard consumer EV in less than an hour, a significant improvement over current charging times. 

Disruptive impact

Faster charging times for EVs enabled by graphene batteries could be a game-changer, making EVs a more attractive option for consumers. Moreover, as companies increasingly aim to align their operations with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) policies, the demand for cleaner energy options like graphene batteries is likely to grow. This shift could stimulate further research and development in this area, despite the current limitations in funding.

Moreover, the potential of graphene batteries extends beyond just EVs. Consider household appliances and power tools, which are integral parts of our daily lives. These devices could see a significant improvement in their lifespan and performance with the use of graphene batteries. For instance, a cordless drill powered by a graphene battery could operate for longer periods, reducing the frequency of recharging and improving productivity. Similarly, household appliances, such as vacuum cleaners and lawn mowers, could become more efficient and convenient to use. These improvements could lead to a shift in consumer expectations and standards for such devices, influencing manufacturers to adopt graphene batteries.

However, the high production cost of graphene is a significant barrier to its widespread adoption. Despite this, the interest shown by major companies, such as Tesla Motors, Samsung, and Microsoft, in the development of graphene batteries is a promising sign. Their involvement could lead to advancements in production techniques, potentially reducing costs and making graphene batteries more accessible. This could open up a wide range of applications for this material, from consumer electronics to renewable energy systems.

Implications of graphene battery technology

Wider implications of graphene batteries may include:

• Significant decreases in the cost of EVs that further accelerate the world’s shift away from combustion vehicles of all kinds. 
• The accelerated development of electric planes and VTOLs (vertical take-off and landing) vehicles for consumer and commercial use cases—making urban and long-distance drone transport viable.
• Government investment into modernized power grids and charging stations that can safely deliver electricity in a manner that enables the rapid charging that is standard with graphene batteries.
• The creation of new jobs once manufacturing costs taper out and mass production of graphene batteries becomes a reality.
• New industries and job opportunities in advanced material science and battery production.
• New regulations and standards to ensure the safe and ethical use of graphene batteries, leading to a more secure and regulated energy storage market.
• The availability of longer-lasting and faster-charging batteries influencing demographic trends, with more people, particularly in remote areas, gaining access to reliable power sources.

Questions to consider

• Technology products, such as mobile phones and tablets, and other commercial appliances will likely last much longer when powered by graphene batteries. What effect do you think this will have on retail sales and consumerism in general?
• Considering the benefits of a graphene battery-powered EV, including its rapid charging ability, do you think graphene batteries will stimulate greater interest in and ownership of electric vehicles?