It looks like CATL (Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Ltd.) has finally cracked the issues with sodium-ion batteries. Sodium is the main element of sodium chloride, which is common salt, and is the most abundant mineral on Earth. It is easy to refine from salt deposits, or even from ocean water, without the by-products of hazardous chemicals that lithium mining has.
Starting in 2023 CATL will begin full production on sodium-ion batteries that surpass the 200 watt/hours per kilogram power storage of lithium-ion batteries. They are cheaper to make, are less harmful to the environment, and use readily available materials. Unlike lithium, sodium is a stable element and is not combustible. Sodium-ion batteries also work without the heat problems of lithium-ion, thus making them safer, and allowing them to be 80% charged in 15 minutes.
These new batteries can be made in the same size and dimensions of lithium-ion batteries meaning they are drop-in replaceable with current devices. Everything from your cell phone to your electric car.
This means less expensive electric cars, with better range and recharge rates.
It also means home power banks become affordable, which is great news for people living off grid. This of course, includes boaters.
Here's great 6 minute video by EyeTech that explains the technology.
Ahoy there, fellow readers! As a sailor who's also a seasoned prepper, this news about sodium-ion batteries sets my heart aflutter like a Jolly Roger in a stiff breeze.
I've been harnessing the power of the sun with my 40-foot sailboat's solar panels, and this news sails right into my wheelhouse. While we've been making do with lithium-ion batteries, the potential hazards and heat problems have always been a concern, especially when you're out at sea or hunkered down in a survival situation.
CATL's sodium-ion batteries sounds like a godsend. Being cheaper, safer, and more environmentally friendly are the kind of upgrades we all should welcome. I'm particularly excited about the quick charge feature - being able to charge 80% in just 15 minutes could be a real game changer, especially on cloudy days or during nighttime when solar power isn't an option.
Imagine having your own affordable power bank at home, or in my case, on the sailboat. This could mean a sea of change for fellow liveaboards and off-grid folks. Plus, the fact that they're drop-in replaceable with current devices just sweetens the deal.
For my fellow seafarers, consider the possibilities. Better range and recharge rates for electric boats, not to mention the peace of mind knowing your batteries won't overheat or combust.
I reckon this is a step in the right direction, y'all. Let's keep an eye on this development. In the meantime, let's all continue to be prepared, stay safe, and keep sailing towards a better future. Fair winds!
