Electric vehicle (EV) sales are increasing, but one of the major problems hindering their growth is the extended charging times. Most EVs require hours of overnight charging to reach their intended range.
But an Indian-origin researcher has discovered a solution to this specific problem. According to him, this new technology can charge electric vehicles in 10 minutes.
Researcher’s Background and Claim
Mr Ankur Gupta, an Indian-origin researcher, claimed that his team had discovered a technology capable of charging a laptop in one minute. However, the impressive part was that the same tech could charge an electric vehicle in just ten minutes.
Currently, Gupta works as an assistant professor at the University of Colorado Boulder, USA. The Journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences featured the outcomes of his research.
The paper discussed how minuscule charged particles called ions can move in a complex network of small pores. Gupta suggests that this finding could pave the way for the advancement of more effective energy storage technologies, like ‘supercapacitors.’
This breakthrough is of significant importance as it revolutionizes the storage of power within electric vehicles. Also, it potentially transforms the efficiency and resilience of power grids on a large scale.
That’s because effective storage devices are essential for conserving energy during periods of low demand and delivering it promptly during high demand.
What are Supercapacitors?
Gupta stated that supercapacitors function as energy storage devices by collecting ions in their pores. Compared to batteries, they offer quicker charging times and have longer lifespans.
As per researchers, speed is the most crucial aspect of a supercapacitor. So far, researchers thought that ions moved only in one straight pore, but now they’ve found otherwise.
Gupta said:
So how can we make their charging and release of energy faster? By the more efficient movement of ions.
This discovery has enabled scientists to simulate and predict how ions flow in a complex network of thousands of connected pores in just a few minutes.
Conclusion
Ankur Gupta’s innovative research represents a monumental leap forward in the field of EV technology. His work, ensuring rapid charging times and advancements in energy storage like supercapacitors, could transform eco-mobility.
Moreover, it holds the potential for transforming energy management practices on a global scale. As the demand for sustainable solutions continues to grow, such innovations pave the way for a greener, more efficient future.
