A new battery could transform energy storage on Mars. Researchers at USTC developed a Mars battery to harness CO₂ for energy storage. It uses Mars’ carbon dioxide-rich atmosphere as fuel for its reactions. This innovation relies on electrochemical and materials science principles. Powder technology plays a growing role in space exploration.

How Powder Science Powers the Mars Battery

At the core of this battery is a lithium-carbon dioxide (Li–CO₂) reaction. Lithium carbonate forms and breaks down in a controlled cycle. Precise powder engineering is key to making this process work. By designing electrodes with high surface area and optimal porosity, researchers improved efficiency. Prof. Peng Tan’s team at USTC ensured stable energy conversion.

Mars’ extreme temperatures, from 0°C to 60°C, create challenges for energy storage. However, optimized powder-based materials improve performance under these conditions. This battery delivers 373.9 Wh/kg at 0°C and lasts 1,375 hours. That equals roughly two Martian months.

 

 

Boosting Performance with Advanced Powders

The battery’s success depends on its advanced electrode structure. Using innovative powder processing, the team designed a flexible 2×2 cm² pouch cell. This design increases energy density to an impressive 765 Wh/kg. The key lies in controlling particle size and surface properties. These adjustments improve lithium carbonate formation and breakdown during charge cycles.

By fine-tuning the reaction process, the battery stays efficient over time. It also reduces unwanted chemical reactions that could impact performance. The result is a stable and durable power source. This reliability makes it ideal for long-term space missions.

What This Means for Mars Exploration

This breakthrough shows that CO₂-driven energy storage is not just possible but revolutionary. A reliable, rechargeable battery like this could power Mars missions. Robotic and human explorers would gain a sustainable energy source. This reduces reliance on Earth-based resupply missions and enhances mission feasibility.

Beyond a technological achievement, this research highlights powder science’s role in space exploration. Fine-tuning electrode composition improves efficiency and stability in extreme environments. Powder technology continues to be a crucial factor in advancing energy storage solutions.

References for Mars battery to harness CO₂ for energy storage

Xu Xiao, Zhuojun Zhang, Aijing Yan, and Peng Tan, A high-energy-density and long-cycling-lifespan Mars battery, Science Bulletin, June 28, 2024. DOI: 10.1016/j.scib.2024.06.033