Quantum dots have developed quite a reputation for themselves, in next-generation displays and photovoltaics. However, in the field of battery technology, they’re less heralded.
Nonetheless, research has shown that if you add quantum dots, which are semiconducting metal nanoparticles, to a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery, it’s then possible to charge the battery completely in 30 seconds. While that sounds great, it turns out that this fast-charging trick can be executed for only a couple of cycles before the quantum dots start to interact with the electrolyte and it stops working.
Now researchers at Vanderbilt University have discovered a way to forestall that interaction by making the quantum dots out of iron pyrite, otherwise known as “fool’s gold”.
In research published in the journal ACS Nano, the Vanderbilt researchers added iron pyrite quantum dots of varying sizes to standard Li-ion button batteries like those used in watches. The results showed that they could achieve those fast recharging times with no negative effect on performance after dozens of cycles.
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