Vedanta Group Collaborates with IIT Madras to Develop Zinc-Based Battery Prototype
In a strategic move towards developing sustainable energy solutions, Hindustan Zinc, a subsidiary of the Vedanta Group and India’s largest integrated zinc producer, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras). The focus of this collaboration is to pioneer a 1 kWh electrically rechargeable zinc-air battery prototype.
Zinc: An Alternative to Lithium-ion Batteries
While lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the market, they come with their own set of challenges, including high costs, limited resource availability, and safety concerns. With the aim to address these issues, both Hindustan Zinc and IIT Madras believe that using zinc-based alternatives in energy storage technology could provide a more efficient and sustainable solution.
Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, emphasized that as an integral metal for various industries, zinc has the potential to play a key role in the global energy transition. He stated that the partnership between Hindustan Zinc and IIT Madras will significantly contribute to the research and development of zinc-air battery technology, subsequently transforming the future of energy storage.
Expertise and Innovation
The collaboration between Hindustan Zinc and IIT Madras brings together the expertise and knowledge of both institutions. Aravind Kumar Chandiran, who leads the research team at IIT Madras and also heads the Hyundai Hydrogen Innovation Hub, will be instrumental in advancing energy storage solutions. His team has already developed a prototype of a rechargeable zinc-air battery and secures three Indian patents for innovations in leak resistance, anode recharging, and anode replacement design.
Potential Applications of Zinc-Based Battery
The development of a zinc-air battery prototype has far-reaching implications across various sectors. The improved energy storage systems resulting from this collaboration have potential applications in renewable energy, data centers, and telecommunications. By harnessing the capabilities of zinc as an alternative to lithium, the aim is to contribute to a greener and more sustainable future for generations to come.
This partnership underscores the commitment of both Hindustan Zinc and IIT Madras to push the boundaries of technological innovation. With continuous advancements towards improving energy storage technology, the possibilities for a more sustainable future appear brighter.
As Hindustan Zinc and IIT Madras take the lead in developing the zinc-air battery technology, it is expected that other companies and institutions will soon follow suit. The pursuit of alternative energy storage solutions is vital as the world continues to address the growing demand for clean and renewable energy sources.
