Advancements in rare earth materials and sodium-ion battery technology

Recent research highlights advancements in clean energy materials, specifically regarding hydrogen production and battery technology. A review published in Scientific Reviews explores how rare earth elements (REEs) can enhance various hydrogen-generation pathways. By utilizing the unique magnetic, optical, and catalytic properties of the 17 REEs, researchers aim to improve thermochemical, electrochemical, and photocatalytic processes. These materials can assist in water-splitting, electrolysis, and biomass-gasification, potentially reducing the reliance on fossil-fuel-based hydrogen production.

In the field of energy storage, researchers in China have developed an iron-mediated strategy to improve sodium-ion batteries. By incorporating iron into a manganese-magnesium-iron layered oxide cathode, the team achieved a 15.8 Ah pouch cell with an energy density of 206 Wh/kg. This method improves the reversibility of lattice-oxygen redox reactions, which typically suffer from poor stability in anionic-redox cathodes, thereby reducing capacity loss during cycling.