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illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on MIT News or enjoy below:
🗞️ Driving the news: Researchers at Caltech and NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory have discovered a graphene-based method to extend the lifespan and efficiency of lithium-ion batteries
• The breakthrough involves using graphene nanocomposite dry coatings to prevent metal dissolution in battery cathodes
🔭 The context: Lithium-ion batteries power everyday devices like smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles, but their lifespan and performance are limited by cathode degradation
• Graphene, an atom-thin, highly conductive material, emerged as a promising solution after a 2015 breakthrough enabled its production at room temperature
🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Enhancing battery lifespans can reduce e-waste and the need for new raw materials, critical for sustainable EV adoption and reducing the carbon footprint of battery production
• This innovation could play a key role in accelerating the global transition to clean energy technologies
⏭️ What's next: The research team plans to refine the graphene coating process for commercial-scale applications in consumer electronics and EVs
• Industry adoption could lead to longer-lasting batteries and significant cost savings for manufacturers and consumers
💬 One quote: "Graphene's unique properties offer a transformative pathway to boost the durability and performance of lithium-ion batteries," – David Boyd, Senior Research Scientist, Caltech
📈 One stat: The global average energy density of EV batteries has increased by approximately 7-9% annually, reaching 300 Wh/kg for leading technologies in 2025, enhancing range and performance
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