Hydrogen saps energy from batteries.

HYDROGEN as fuel; LITHIUM ions; CHEMICAL reactions; LITHIUM-ion batteries; RESEARCH personnel; LITHIUM cells

A study has found that dust particles blowing from Utah's Great Salt Lake contain metals that can cause inflammation if inhaled. The dust particles have higher concentrations of manganese, copper, iron, lead, lithium, and arsenic compared to dust from other nearby lake beds. These particles are also more likely to generate reactive oxygen species, which can damage living cells. While the study suggests that the dust from the Great Salt Lake could be a health concern, more data is needed to link it to public health outcomes. Another study has discovered that leaky hydrogen is one reason why rechargeable lithium-ion batteries lose their charge and become less effective over time. Unwanted hydrogen protons fill molecular slots in the positive end of the battery, leaving less room for charged lithium ions. This reduces the capacity and lifespan of the battery. The study sheds light on the chemistry inside batteries and suggests ways to adjust the chemistry to avoid hydrogen reactions. The findings could potentially contribute to innovations in longer-range electric vehicles and decrease the need for mining battery minerals. [Extracted from the article]

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