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The energy density of the new flexible battery is at least 10 times higher than that of lithium batteries and can be "printed" roll by roll

According to reports, a research team from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and California battery manufacturer ZPower has recently developed a rechargeable flexible silver zinc oxide battery with an energy density per unit area of about 5 to 10 times that of the most advanced technology currently, and at least 10 times higher than ordinary lithium batteries.

The research results have been published in the world-renowned journal "Joule" recently. It is understood that the capacity of this new battery is greater than any flexible battery currently on the market. This is because the impedance of the battery (the resistance of a circuit or device to alternating current) is much lower. At room temperature, its unit area capacity is 50 milliamperes per square centimeter, which is 10 to 20 times the area capacity of ordinary lithium batteries. Therefore, for the same surface area, this battery can supply 5 to 10 times the energy.

In addition, this battery is also easier to manufacture. Although most flexible batteries are manufactured under sterile conditions, this battery can be screen-printed under normal laboratory conditions under vacuum conditions. Given its softness and recoverability, it could also be used in flexible, stretchable wearable electronics and soft robotics.

Specifically, by testing different solvents and adhesives, the researchers found an ink formula that can be used to print the battery. Once the ink is ready, the battery can be printed in seconds and dried in minutes before use. And the battery can also be printed in rolls, which will increase speed and make the manufacturing process scalable.

The research team said that this unit capacity has never been seen before. And our manufacturing method is inexpensive and scalable. Our battery can be designed around the electronic device, without having to design the device to accommodate the battery.

With the rapid rise of the 5G and Internet of Things (IoT) markets, this battery that outperforms commercial products in high-current wireless devices will likely become a serious competitor for the power supply of next-generation consumer electronics, they added.

Notably, the battery has successfully powered a flexible display system equipped with a microcontroller and a Bluetooth module. Here, the battery also performed better than commercially available coin-type lithium batteries. And after being charged 80 times, it did not show any significant signs of capacity loss.

It is reported that the team is already developing the next generation of batteries, aiming at cheaper, faster and lower impedance charging devices, which will be used in 5G devices and soft robots that require high power, customizability and flexible form factors.

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