Advantages and Disadvantages of Magnesium Batteries for Energy Storage

Are rechargeable magnesium batteries a viable energy storage solution?

Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) are gaining attention as promising energy storage solutions due to their high volumetric capacity (3833 mAh/cm 3), inherent safety from dendrite-free anodes, cost-effectiveness (∼$2/kg), and environmental sustainability [1, 5, 150].

How durable is a magnesium battery?

Magnesium battery is durable since it has always a protective cover which is naturally formed on the surface of the magnesium anode. The magnesium battery generally loses its capacity of storage once it has been partially discharged and that is why it is not very suitable for using in long-term intermittent applications.

Why are magnesium batteries better than lithium ion batteries?

Magnesium batteries offer ~3833 mAh/cm³ capacity, nearly twice that of lithium-ion batteries. Magnesium enables dendrite-free operation, improving battery safety and lifespan. New cathodes and electrolytes address issues like Mg²⁺ diffusion and anode passivation. Mg batteries suit EVs, grid storage, aerospace, and portable devices due to low cost.

What is the energy density of a rechargeable magnesium battery?

Energy density and power Rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs) excel in volumetric energy density; for instance, MgFeSiO 4 cathodes deliver over 300 mAh/g at 2.4 V vs. Mg/Mg 2+ (at 1C and 25 °C), yielding an energy density of 720 Wh/L, comparable to the 700 Wh/L of commercial lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) [55, 105].

Do unwanted reactions affect the performance of rechargeable magnesium batteries?

Unwanted reactions in rechargeable magnesium batteries Unwanted reactions impair the performance of rechargeable magnesium batteries (RMBs), notably in Mg/S systems, which experience a 50 % capacity decline (from 800 to 400 mAh/g) over 50 cycles at 0.1C due to the irreversible formation of MgS and Mg 3 S 8 .

What is the energy density of a magnesium air battery?

Magnesium–air batteries possess a high theoretical energy density of approximately 3910 Wh/kg significantly exceeding that of LIBs (∼400 Wh/kg). However, practical energy densities are currently limited to ∼1000 Wh/kg due to polarization losses and moderate Faradaic efficiencies (typically around 60–70 %).