Photo-Assisted, Self-Charging Batteries

• 24 Mar 2025

Source: PIB 

Researchers have developed a photo-assisted, self-chargeable energy storage device that enhances charge storage using light and atmospheric oxygen. 

Photo-Assisted, Self-Charging Energy Storage Devices: 

• About: Photo-Assisted, Self-Charging Energy Storage Devices are advanced energy storage systems (batteries) that integrate solar energy conversion with self-recharging capabilities using atmospheric oxygen. 
• Different from Photo-Assisted Batteries: Photo-assisted batteries are batteries that combine solar energy capture with storage, enabling direct energy conversion and retention, but require external charging due to incomplete energy storage, low-light dependence, and limited charge retention. 
• Key Features:  
  • Dual Charging Mechanism: Utilizes both photo-assisted charging (solar energy) and air-assisted charging (oxygen from the atmosphere). 
    • The air cathode facilitates oxygen-assisted self-charging, while the charge-separating layer enhances light absorption and energy storage, enabling efficient dual charging and improved energy retention 
  • High Energy Storage Efficiency: The device enhances energy storage by 170% under light exposure at 0.02 mA/cm², reaching 0.9V open circuit potential (OCP) in 140 seconds, with a peak OCP of 1V. 
• Potential Applications: Potential for large-scale applications in renewable energy storage, electric vehicles, and off-grid power solutions. 

Read More: Electric Batteries and Electrochemical Cells