Quantum battery tests prove extended storage life

RMIT University and CSIRO researchers have found a method to extend the lifetime of quantum batteries — 1000 times longer than previous demonstrations.

Unlike traditional batteries, which rely on chemical reactions, quantum batteries use quantum superposition and interactions between electrons and light to achieve faster charging times and potentially enhanced storage capacity.

Developing quantum batteries in the lab remains challenging. Previous devices demonstrated good charging speeds, but found rapid discharge rates difficult, losing stored energy almost as quickly as they charged.

For the study, published in PRX Energy, the research team built and studied five devices, which worked best when two specific energy levels aligned perfectly, allowing energy to be stored more efficiently.

Study co-author and RMIT PhD candidate Daniel Tibben said, “While we’ve addressed a tiny ingredient of the overall piece, our device is already much better at storing energy than its predecessor.”

The best performing device was able to store energy for 1000 times longer than the previous demonstration, improving the energy storage from nanoseconds to microseconds.

The team said while this might not sound like a long time, the breakthrough proves the concept and builds a strong foundation for future research.

Study co-author and RMIT chemical physicist Professor Daniel Gómez said, “While a working quantum battery could still be some time away, this experimental study has allowed us to design the next iteration of devices.

“It’s hoped one day quantum batteries could be used to improve the efficiency of solar cells and power small electronic devices.”

CSIRO’s Science Leader Dr James Quach, who led the previous experiment, also co-authored this paper.

“Australia is leading the way in experimental quantum battery research and this work is a significant advancement,” Quach said.

Gomez and his team at RMIT have engaged industry partners to collaborate on designing the next iteration of prototypes.

Image credit: iStock.com/hh5800