Alternative Energies
Extending a battery’s lifetime with heat

Over time, the electrodes inside a rechargeable battery cell can grow tiny, branch-like filaments called dendrites, causing short circuits that kill the battery or even ignite it in flames. But thanks to new experiments and computer simulations, researchers have explored in detail how higher temperatures can break down these dendrites — and possibly extend battery lifetimes.

Shifting winds: An early warning for reduced energy

Chinook winds can precede large shifts in wind power output from wind farms — a challenge for companies seeking to provide a constant stream of green energy to consumers. By establishing a connection between local meteorological events and power grid output, the researchers hope that they may ultimately help grid operators more accurately predict fluctuations in flow and manage the grid accordingly.