In which we discuss safer, more efficient, and better rechargeability batteries with two experts, Professors Feng Lin and Lou Madsen of Virginia Tech. We discuss the basics of how electricity and batteries work, the components of a battery, the problems of conventional nickel-cadmium and lead-acid batteries, and the advantages of lithium ion batteries. Feng Lin describes his recent work on oriented microparticles for lithium ion batteries that lead to faster recharging and longer lifetime. Lou Madsen explains his invention of a solid-state electrolyte for lithium ion batteries that is more durable and non-flammable. Hosted by Felicia Etzkorn (Virginia Tech) and Jamie Ferguson  (Emory & Henry College), with music by Wendy Godley of The Kind.

Feng Lin’s paper: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41467-019-13884-x

Lou Madsen’s paper: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1002/adma.201505183