In a landmark advancement that could shape India’s clean energy future, scientists at the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) in Bengaluru have created a fast-charging sodium-ion battery with massive potential for electric vehicles, grid storage, drones, and rural electrification.
A Breakthrough in Battery Chemistry
The battery, developed under the guidance of Prof. Premkumar Senguttuvan and Ph.D. scholar Biplab Patra, leverages a NASICON-type structure and a uniquely engineered anode:
Na₁.₀V₀.₂₅Al₀.₂₅Nb₁.₅(PO₄)₃
Key innovations include:
- Nanosizing particles to reduce ion travel distance
- Carbon coating for enhanced conductivity
- Aluminium substitution for improved electrochemical stability
These refinements allow the battery to charge up to 80% in just six minutes and deliver over 3,000 charge-discharge cycles—with over 80% capacity retention.
Why It Matters for India
India largely depends on imported lithium for battery manufacturing, making the country vulnerable to geopolitical risks and supply chain volatility. Sodium, on the other hand, is abundantly available in India, making this discovery crucial to the Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
This sodium-based battery technology offers a cheaper, safer, and scalable alternative to lithium-ion batteries—especially suited for:
- EVs and electric 2-wheelers
- Solar grid energy storage
- Emergency backup systems
- Rural clean energy projects
- High-temperature environments (thanks to its thermal stability)
Rigorously Tested and Ready for Scaling
The prototype has already undergone electrochemical validation and quantum-level simulations, showing strong promise for safety, efficiency, and longevity. Although commercial deployment will take time, the innovation has already captured attention in scientific and policy circles.
As the global lithium market remains uncertain—with China, Chile, and Australia dominating the supply—India’s sodium-ion alternative positions the country to become a technology leader in next-gen battery innovation.
Looking Ahead
Housed under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), the JNCASR’s advancement not only boosts indigenous R&D but also strengthens India’s role in the global clean tech movement. If commercialized at scale, this battery could power India’s journey towards a sustainable, electrified, and self-reliant future—free from critical mineral dependency.
