Salty batteries: Sodium-oxygen batteries have improved cycle life due to highly concentrated electrolytes

Smartphones, laptops, electric cars — whatever the device, an efficient battery is high on any user’s wish list. The search for the next-generation battery has recently focused on sodium- oxygen batteries. Theoretically, these should provide previously unattainable efficiency but their practical implementation has proven to be a stumbling block. Researchers now report that a highly concentrated electrolyte solution may make the sodium-oxygen battery more stable, and therefore more practicable.