SODIUM-ION BATTERY (SIB)

NEWS: Indian scientists working under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) have developed a super-fast charging Sodium-Ion Battery (SIB) that: Charges 80% in just 6 minutes, lasts for over 3000 charge cycles

Definition

• A Sodium-Ion Battery (SIB) is a rechargeable battery in which: Sodium ions (Na⁺) act as the charge carriers, instead of lithium ions (Li⁺) used in lithium-ion batteries (LIBs)
• Same working principle as lithium-ion batteries, different ion.

SIGNIFICANCE

• Ultra-fast charging:80% charge in 6 minutesàcrucial for electric vehicles, grid-scale energy storage
• Long battery life: 3000+ charge cyclesàlonger lifespan, lower replacement cost, less electronic waste

Advantages of SodiumIon Batteries over LithiumIon Batteries

• Cost advantage: Sodium compounds are much cheaper than lithium–>Overall battery cost can be 15–20% lower than LIBs
• Abundant and secure raw material: Sodium is widely available (sea salt, soda ash)
• Supply-chain diversification: Lithium supply chain is highly concentrated–>China dominates global lithium processing
  • Sodium availability enables: Decentralised global manufacturing
• Can be transported at zero voltage (fully discharged): Reduces fire risk, explosion hazard

Why This Matters for India?

• Supports renewable energy storage, grid stability
• Aligns with net-zero targets, clean energy transition
• Reduces dependence on imported lithium, foreign battery technology
• Boosts domestic battery manufacturing “Make in India” in clean tech