Silicon Nanowire Power Storage Systems
Long Lasting High Energy Batteries
The future of electrical storage is on its way. Thanks to breakthroughs in technology, it will soon be possible to effectively power electric vehicles and electronics with more efficient batteries using the power of silicon nanowires. Many large commercial manufacturers are developing batteries that will be able to store large amounts of electricity and withstand repeated charge cycles. By reducing mass and increasing storage potential, smaller batteries are just one of the possibilites of the combination of silicon nanowires and lithium-ion technology.
Also known as "quantum wires" nanowires are able to hold more electricity because of their size and compatiblilty with Lithuim. Prior Silicon and Lithium combinations were unworkable because silicon would crack when the battery was charged. However, nanowires are able to absorb the charge and expand without cracking, so electricty can be stored more efficiently. Stanford university researchers are working on improving storage so silicon nanowires can become the next form of green energy storage. The use of nanotechnology, and the potential for high performance lithium battery anodes has the potential to store power locally, reducing the waste from traditional power distribution channels.
The ability to store more electricity will improve the range of electric cars, making them commercially viable for people who don't want to continually charge them. It will also make hybrid vehicles lighter, and therefore more fuel efficient, and potentially safer. All kinds of cel phone and mobile device technology will benefit from batteries that do not wear out as quickly, and laptop users will be able to get more than just a few hours out of a battery charge. Nanowire batteries can also be coupled with solar applications to provide clean, efficient energy on a full 24 hour basis for developing countries and anyone who wants to get "off the grid" of traditional power usage. These batteries could also function as capacitors, able to store "off peak" electrical power and then use it during peak times when energy consumption costs more money for businesses and consumers. Finally, battery backups can replace emergency power generators in many places, reducing the need for maintenance of systems that require fuel storage, service, and testing despite very limited use.
Notes and Special Information
Special note: All high energy power sources require attention and proper installation, especially experimental ones.