Solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries: Neutrons unveil sluggish charge transport

Solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries have been touted as a promising alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries due to their higher energy density and lower cost. However, their commercialization has been hindered by the sluggish charge transport within the battery, which leads to poor performance and short cycle life.

Now, a team of researchers from the Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Michigan have used neutron scattering to gain new insights into the charge transport mechanisms in solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries.

The researchers found that the charge transport in these batteries is hindered by the formation of a solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the surface of the lithium anode. This layer acts as a barrier to the flow of lithium ions, slowing down the charging process and reducing the battery's performance.

However, the researchers also discovered that the addition of a small amount of lithium nitrate to the electrolyte can improve the charge transport by promoting the formation of a more stable SEI layer. This leads to faster charging and longer cycle life.

These findings could pave the way for the development of more efficient and reliable solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries, which could have a significant impact on the future of energy storage.

Overall, the use of neutron scattering has proven to be a valuable tool for understanding the complex charge transport mechanisms in solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries, and could lead to further advancements in this promising technology.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/solid-state-lithium-sulfur-batteries-neutrons-unveil-sluggish-charge-transport

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Scientists use X-ray beams to observe tiny movements, deep inside a lithium battery

Scientists have developed a new technique that allows them to observe the tiny movements of lithium ions inside a battery using X-ray beams. This breakthrough could help researchers better understand the inner workings of batteries and improve their performance.

Lithium-ion batteries are widely used in electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and electric cars. They work by moving lithium ions between two electrodes, which generates an electrical current. However, the movement of these ions can cause the battery to degrade over time, reducing its capacity and lifespan.

By using X-ray beams, scientists can observe the movement of these ions in real-time, allowing them to better understand how they interact with the electrodes and the electrolyte solution. This information can then be used to develop new materials and designs that can improve the performance and lifespan of batteries.

The technique involves shining X-ray beams through the battery and measuring how they are absorbed by the different materials inside. By analyzing the patterns of absorption, scientists can create a 3D image of the battery and observe the movement of the lithium ions.

This breakthrough could have significant implications for the development of new battery technologies, particularly for electric cars and renewable energy storage. By improving the performance and lifespan of batteries, we can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and move towards a more sustainable future.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/scientists-use-x-ray-beams-to-observe-tiny-movements-deep-inside-a-lithium-battery

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Florida has spent $1.5 million developing smartphone ID apps that hardly anyone is using

Florida has been working on developing smartphone ID apps for quite some time now. The state has invested $1.5 million in developing these apps, but unfortunately, hardly anyone is using them.

The idea behind these apps was to make it easier for people to access their identification documents without having to carry physical copies with them. The apps were designed to be secure and easy to use, but it seems that the people of Florida are not interested in using them.

One of the reasons why these apps are not being used is that people are not aware of their existence. The state has not done enough to promote these apps and educate people on how to use them. Another reason is that people are not comfortable with the idea of storing their personal information on their smartphones.

Despite the lack of interest in these apps, the state of Florida is not giving up on them. Officials are working on improving the apps and making them more user-friendly. They are also planning to launch a marketing campaign to promote the apps and educate people on how to use them.

Overall, the idea behind these smartphone ID apps is a good one. They have the potential to make life easier for people by eliminating the need to carry physical copies of identification documents. However, the state needs to do more to promote these apps and educate people on their benefits.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/florida-has-spent-1-5-million-developing-smartphone-id-apps-that-hardly-anyone-is-using

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Twitter's Shadow Workforce Sues Over Musk's Mass Layoffs

Twitter's shadow workforce, made up of contract workers who perform tasks such as content moderation, is suing the company over mass layoffs that were announced in October 2018. The lawsuit, which was filed in San Francisco Superior Court, alleges that Twitter violated California labor laws by failing to provide proper notice and severance pay to the affected workers.

The layoffs, which affected approximately 350 employees, were part of Twitter's efforts to streamline its operations and improve profitability. However, the shadow workforce claims that they were unfairly targeted and that Twitter failed to provide them with the same benefits and protections as full-time employees.

The lawsuit also alleges that Twitter violated California's Private Attorneys General Act, which allows employees to sue on behalf of the state for labor law violations. The shadow workforce is seeking damages for lost wages, benefits, and emotional distress.

The lawsuit has drawn attention to the growing trend of companies relying on contract workers to perform essential tasks, such as content moderation, without providing them with the same benefits and protections as full-time employees. This practice, known as the "gig economy," has been criticized for creating a two-tiered workforce and exacerbating income inequality.

Twitter has not yet commented on the lawsuit, but the company has previously defended its use of contract workers, stating that they provide flexibility and cost savings. However, the shadow workforce argues that they are essential to Twitter's operations and deserve the same protections as full-time employees.

The outcome of the lawsuit could have significant implications for the gig economy and the rights of contract workers. It remains to be seen whether Twitter will be held accountable for its treatment of the shadow workforce.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/twitters-shadow-workforce-sues-over-musks-mass-layoffs

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New 'smart layer' could enhance the durability and efficiency of solid-state batteries

Solid-state batteries are a promising technology for the future of energy storage. They offer higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. However, one of the challenges of solid-state batteries is their durability and efficiency over time.

Researchers at the University of Michigan have developed a new "smart layer" that could address this challenge. The smart layer is made of a material called lithium germanium phosphate (LGP), which is a solid electrolyte that can conduct ions between the battery's electrodes. The LGP layer is coated with a thin layer of graphene, which acts as a protective barrier against degradation and corrosion.

The researchers tested the smart layer in a solid-state battery and found that it improved the battery's performance and durability. The battery was able to maintain its capacity over 100 charge-discharge cycles, which is a significant improvement over previous solid-state batteries.

The smart layer also has the potential to improve the safety of solid-state batteries. The graphene coating can prevent the formation of dendrites, which are tiny metal fibers that can grow inside the battery and cause short circuits. Dendrites are a major safety concern for lithium-ion batteries, and the smart layer could help prevent them from forming in solid-state batteries.

The development of the smart layer is an important step forward for the commercialization of solid-state batteries. With improved durability and safety, solid-state batteries could become a viable alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries in a wide range of applications, from electric vehicles to grid-scale energy storage.

Overall, the new smart layer developed by the University of Michigan researchers is a promising development for the future of energy storage. It could help overcome some of the challenges of solid-state batteries and pave the way for their widespread adoption.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/new-smart-layer-could-enhance-the-durability-and-efficiency-of-solid-state-batteries

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Introducing a novel solution for carbon dioxide capture utilization and storage

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is a greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. The increase in CO2 emissions from human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, has led to a rise in global temperatures. To combat this issue, researchers have been working on developing solutions for carbon dioxide capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS).

A new solution has been introduced that involves using a novel material called metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) for CO2 capture. MOFs are porous materials that can selectively capture CO2 from a mixture of gases. They have a high surface area and can be tailored to capture specific gases.

The MOFs are used in a process called pressure swing adsorption (PSA), where the gas mixture is passed through a bed of MOFs. The CO2 is selectively captured by the MOFs, while the other gases pass through. The CO2 is then released from the MOFs by reducing the pressure, and the MOFs are ready to capture more CO2.

The captured CO2 can then be utilized in various ways, such as in the production of chemicals, fuels, and building materials. It can also be stored underground in geological formations, such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs or saline aquifers.

This new solution has several advantages over traditional CCUS methods. MOFs have a high selectivity for CO2, which means they can capture CO2 more efficiently than other materials. They are also reusable, which reduces the cost of the process. Additionally, the captured CO2 can be utilized in various ways, which provides economic benefits.

Overall, the use of MOFs for CO2 capture, utilization, and storage is a promising solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.

https://www.lifetechnology.com/blogs/life-technology-technology-news/introducing-a-novel-solution-for-carbon-dioxide-capture-utilization-and-storage

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