Daily Current Affairs : 7-August-2024
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has made a sizable advancement in energy storage technology by developing a new type of battery that can function effectively in sub-zero temperatures. This innovation is particularly beneficial for both defence forces and civilians living in high-altitude areas, where severe cold can make conventional batteries unreliable.
Key Features of the New Battery
The new battery developed by CSIR is designed to tackle the challenge of energy storage in extremely cold environments. Here are the key features of this innovative battery:
- Durable Cathode Catalyst: The battery uses a durable cathode catalyst, which ensures that the battery continues to perform well even in freezing conditions.
- Anti-Freezing Electrolyte: It contains an electrolyte that resists freezing, which is a common problem in conventional batteries exposed to low temperatures.
- Hybrid Cathode Material: The researchers at CSIR-Central Mechanical Engineering Research Institute (CSIR-CMERI) created a hybrid cathode material by combining cobalt and iron alloys with nanoparticles. This combination enhances the battery’s performance.
Improved Performance in Cold Weather
Traditional batteries often fail in very cold conditions, but the new CSIR-developed battery is designed to work efficiently in both liquid and solid-state zinc-air configurations. This makes it ideal for use in sub-zero temperatures where other batteries could struggle. The improved materials in the battery ensure greater durability and longer life in harsh conditions.
Versatility and Applications
This battery is not just useful for military applications, but its portability, flexibility, and lightweight design make it an excellent energy solution for various other sectors, especially in remote areas. Key benefits include:
- Portability: Easy to transport and use in different environments.
- Flexibility: Suitable for both military and civilian uses.
- Lightweight: Makes it convenient for a variety of users, especially in challenging environments.
Towards Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions
The development of this new battery is part of a larger effort to find more efficient and sustainable energy storage systems. It moves away from traditional lithium-ion batteries, exploring alternatives like metal-air batteries and electro-catalytic techniques, which are expected to have a lower carbon footprint. These advancements could help reduce the environmental impact of energy storage while providing reliable power in extreme conditions.
Important Points:
- CSIR’s Innovation: The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has developed a new battery that works effectively in sub-zero temperatures, benefiting defence forces and civilians in high-altitude regions.
- Key Features of the New Battery:
- Durable Cathode Catalyst: Ensures high performance even in freezing conditions.
- Anti-Freezing Electrolyte: Resists freezing, overcoming common issues in traditional batteries.
- Hybrid Cathode Material: Combination of cobalt and iron alloys with nanoparticles to enhance performance.
- Improved Cold Weather Performance: The battery operates efficiently in both liquid and solid-state zinc-air configurations, ensuring reliability in extreme cold conditions where traditional batteries fail.
- Versatility and Applications:
- Portability: Easy to transport and use in various environments.
- Flexibility: Suitable for both military and civilian use.
- Lightweight: Convenient for users, especially in remote and harsh environments.
- Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions:
- The battery is part of a larger effort to develop efficient and sustainable energy storage systems.
- It offers an alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, exploring options like metal-air batteries and electro-catalytic techniques for a lower carbon footprint.
Why In News
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has developed a new battery designed to function effectively in sub-zero temperatures, making it particularly beneficial for defence forces and civilians in high-altitude regions where extreme cold often compromises the performance of conventional batteries. This breakthrough technology promises to enhance energy reliability and support critical operations in challenging environments.
MCQs about CSIR Develops New Battery for Extreme Cold Conditions
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What is the primary benefit of the new battery developed by CSIR?
A. It is cheaper than traditional batteries
B. It functions effectively in sub-zero temperatures
C. It can store more energy than lithium-ion batteries
D. It has a longer lifespan than metal-air batteries
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What feature of the new battery prevents it from freezing in cold conditions?
A. Hybrid cathode material
B. Durable cathode catalyst
C. Anti-freezing electrolyte
D. Zinc-air configuration
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What combination of materials was used to enhance the battery’s performance?
A. Lithium and iron alloys
B. Cobalt and iron alloys with nanoparticles
C. Graphene and copper
D. Zinc and magnesium alloys
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What is one of the key goals of developing this new battery, besides improving cold-weather performance?
A. To reduce the cost of lithium-ion batteries
B. To explore alternatives for sustainable energy storage
C. To increase the weight of batteries for better performance
D. To use more hazardous materials in battery production
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