Researchers 3D Print Custom-Sized Lithium-Ion Batteries (engadget.com) 18
An anonymous reader quotes a report from Engadget: [N]ew research published in ACS Applied Energy Materials shows that it's possible to 3D-print lithium-ion batteries into whatever shape you need. The problem that has stood in the way of 3D-printed lithium-ion batteries (at least, until now) is that the polymers traditionally used in this kind of printing aren't ionic conductors. The goal was to find a way to print custom-sized lithium-ion batteries in a cost-effective way using a regular, widely available 3D printer. In order to make the batteries conductive, the team led by Christopher Reyes and Benjamin Wiley infused the polylactic acid (PLA) usually used in 3D printing with an electrolyte solution. The researchers also incorporated graphene and carbon nanotubes into the design of the case to help increase conductivity. After these design modifications, the team was able to 3D print an LED bracelet, complete with a custom-sized lithium-ion battery. The battery was only able to power the bracelet for about 60 seconds, but the researchers have ideas for how to improve the capacity. For those interested, Engadget has a short video on the subject.
So they 3d printed the sealed steal case ? (Score:2, Insightful)
You know the one that keeps your battery safe and stops it from exploding ?
The copper contacts ?
I suppose that I should just chalk this up to pandering infotainment, but really how hard is it to understand that if you are going to make a significant amount of anything you need to use techniques geared to making significant amounts.
err steel (Score:2)
NT
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Steel? What the hell are you talking about, granpa? Copper contacts?? Uh, what?
I know it's hard to help your level of ignorance especially since you are belligerently ignorant. But here goes
Step 1: Take the back off your phone
Step 2: Take the battery out
Step 3: Look at it.
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I'm waiting for 4D printing (Score:2)
with 4D printing the volume extends into another dimension so it doesn't take up much space in your pocket
Re: (Score:1)
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with 4D printing the volume extends into another dimension so it doesn't take up much space in your pocket
4D printing: 3D printing that takes time.
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You know the one that keeps your battery safe and stops it from exploding ?
The copper contacts ?
I suppose that I should just chalk this up to pandering infotainment, but really how hard is it to understand that if you are going to make a significant amount of anything you need to use techniques geared to making significant amounts.
If you are talking about short-circuit which causes Li-ion batteries to explode, then you should at least read this [consumerreports.org] site.
My point is, the 3D printing is nice to create a custom-size batteries, but I hope that those who create their own battery size know what they are doing. The design is the key and that they need to know how a Li-ion battery works in the first place, or there is a high risk of making an easily explode custom-sized battery.
Takes advantage of empty space? (Score:2)
As for the publisher, at first I thought it was just a blank page until I scrolled down, then it looked like it was made for display on a phone. Then another whole page of blank space before more content... turns out that was all ad space, thank goodness for ad blockers, althoug
How much (Score:2)
for a 1MW battery? (Mega Watt, not Milli Watt)
Could you 3D print it in the shape of a shed for my backyard, far from my house, with a fire suppression system and heat venting, with room for feeds from solar and wind power?