A battery made with water, salt, carbon, and agricultural waste could change the course of clean energy storage. It is an innovative proposal from the Ukrainian startup SorbiForce that, without using lithium or heavy metals, offers a safe, recyclable, and long-lasting alternative.
This new technology, designed exclusively for stationary use —such as homes, farms, or industries with solar or wind systems— promises up to 30 years of useful life and can withstand more than 6,000 charge cycles. Its composition does not include toxic or flammable materials, making it a 95% recyclable or even compostable option, without risks of explosion or environmental pollution.
Although its energy density is low —around 35 Wh/kg, compared to 150-250 Wh/kg of lithium batteries—, its weight is not a disadvantage in fixed applications, where safety and durability are key factors. A 700 kWh unit can weigh up to 20 tons, so it is not intended for electric vehicles, but for installations where space allows.
The key to this eco-friendly battery lies in its operation: instead of complex chemical reactions that generate heat, it uses a physical process in an ultra-porous carbon material to move electrons, eliminating the risk of overheating or toxic leaks.
The battery that could replace lithium
Moreover, this technology improves over time if properly maintained —such as periodically replenishing the water—, unlike lithium, which loses efficiency year by year.
SorbiForce already plans to launch pilot tests during this year with units ranging from 60 to 150 kWh, and is in the process of raising an investment round to scale up production and reduce costs.
If successful in expanding, this battery could reduce dependence on scarce minerals like lithium and cobalt, minimize hazardous waste, and facilitate access to renewable energy in isolated communities, while promoting a true circular economy: what is currently agricultural waste, in the future could be clean energy.
China launches the first pocket nuclear battery: lasts 50 years
What seemed like science fiction is now a reality. The Chinese company Betavolt announced that it has begun mass production of the first pocket nuclear battery, the BV100, which promises a lifespan of up to 50 years without the need for recharging. It is expected to be available for sale in the coming months.
The BV100 battery operates thanks to a radioactive isotope of nickel, Nickel-63, interspersed between layers of artificial diamond, which acts as semiconductors. As the isotope decays, it emits particles that are transformed into electricity. This technology is not new, but it is the first time it is presented in such a compact format with the potential for mass commercialization.
The BV100 offers a power of 100 micro-watts at 3 volts, enough to power small sensors or low-consumption devices. Although it cannot be used in cell phones or smartwatches for now, Betavolt is working on a more powerful version of 1 watt, expected by the end of this year.
Source: Ecoinventos.
