But we are still far from comprehensive solutions for next-generation energy storage using brand-new materials that can dramatically improve how much energy a battery can store. Research supported by the DOE Office of Science, Office of Basic Energy Sciences (BES) has yielded significant improvements in electrical energy storage. DOE Office of Science Contributions to Electrical Energy Storage Research Over time, the lack of a complete reversal can change the chemistry and structure of battery materials, which can reduce battery performance and safety. Scientists study processes in rechargeable batteries because they do not completely reverse as the battery is charged and discharged. For example, they are developing improved materials for the anodes, cathodes, and electrolytes in batteries. Scientists are using new tools to better understand the electrical and chemical processes in batteries to produce a new generation of highly efficient, electrical energy storage.

Once charged, the battery can be disconnected from the circuit to store the chemical potential energy for later use as electricity.īatteries were invented in 1800, but their complex chemical processes are still being studied. During charging or discharging, the oppositely charged ions move inside the battery through the electrolyte to balance the charge of the electrons moving through the external circuit and produce a sustainable, rechargeable system. When the electrons move from the cathode to the anode, they increase the chemical potential energy, thus charging the battery when they move the other direction, they convert this chemical potential energy to electricity in the circuit and discharge the battery. In a rechargeable battery, electrons and ions can move either direction through the circuit and electrolyte. Electrons move through the circuit, while simultaneously ions (atoms or molecules with an electric charge) move through the electrolyte. To accept and release energy, a battery is coupled to an external circuit. Batteries consist of two electrical terminals called the cathode and the anode, separated by a chemical material called an electrolyte. Similarly, for batteries to work, electricity must be converted into a chemical potential form before it can be readily stored. Gasoline and oxygen mixtures have stored chemical potential energy until it is converted to mechanical energy in a car engine. For example, logs and oxygen both store energy in their chemical bonds until burning converts some of that chemical energy to heat.

Batteries use chemistry, in the form of chemical potential, to store energy, just like many other everyday energy sources. Batteries and similar devices accept, store, and release electricity on demand.

Inside a d battery