ADELPHI, Md. — U.S. Army scientists have developed a new surface treatment that could lead to more efficient and longer-lasting batteries for military applications.
The team at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory, known as DEVCOM ARL, created a process that treats multivalent metal electrodes with an acidic solution, creating an ultra-thin protective layer that improves overall battery performance.
“This quick, commercially viable treatment process creates a unique interphase layer that’s thinner than a human hair, yet significantly impacts how rechargeable zinc batteries perform,” said Dr. Travis Pollard, a chemist at DEVCOM ARL. “For Soldiers, this could eventually mean more reliable and longer-lasting power for their essential equipment.”
The research team’s work focuses on next-generation battery technology that goes beyond current lithium-ion capabilities. Their approach includes applying an acidic solution to the battery’s metal electrode, followed by a controlled drying process that creates a specialized thin protective layer.
Potential applications include:
- Military energy storage systems
- Portable electronics
- Electric vehicles
- Grid-scale energy storage
- Advanced defense systems
- Portable power solutions
The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office published the patent application (20240387882) on Nov. 21, 2024, following the team’s May 21, 2024, filing. The research team includes Drs. Lin Ma, Marshall A. Schroeder, Oleg A. Borodin, Travis P. Pollard and Kang Xu. The technology, as part of a growing portfolio of disclosures related to zinc/multivalent rechargeable batteries, will soon be available for licensing through the Army’s technology transfer program, offering opportunities for commercial development and broader applications beyond military use.
“We don’t just do research here; we try to make sure that our breakthroughs have the widest possible impact,” said AnnMarie Martin, team lead, Technology Transfer. “Through our technology transfer programs, we look for partners in industry, whether it’s big corporations or small startups, to take our ideas and develop them into commercial products.”
Martin said the new battery tech could be used in everything from military equipment to electric cars.
“This is a great way to ensure our taxpayer dollars have the biggest impact,” she said.
For information, visit the lab’s webpage on patent license agreements, or reach out to the laboratory via the contact us page.
By U.S. Army DEVCOM Army Research Laboratory Public Affairs
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