MIT’s Sodium-Air Fuel Cell Could Revolutionize Electric Aviation
MIT’s Sodium-Air Fuel Cell Could Revolutionize Electric Aviation
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MIT researchers have developed a groundbreaking sodium-air fuel cell with three times the energy density of lithium-ion batteries, potentially enabling regional electric flights, New Atlas reported. Led by Prof. Yet-Ming Chiang, the system uses liquid sodium metal reacting with humid air via a ceramic electrolyte, generating electricity while producing sodium oxide as a byproduct.
Unlike conventional batteries, this fuel cell’s exhaust could benefit the environment: sodium oxide absorbs atmospheric CO₂, eventually forming harmless baking soda that may help reduce ocean acidification. The design allows rapid “refueling” by swapping sodium cartridges—addressing recharge limitations of earlier sodium-air batteries.
With an energy density of 1,000 watts per kilogram, stacked cells could power passenger aircraft. Sodium production is feasible using abundant salt, melting at just 98°C (208°F). A brick-sized 1,000-watt-hour prototype for drones is expected within a year, commercialized by MIT spin-off Propel Aero.
Chiang acknowledges the concept may seem “crazy” but emphasizes its revolutionary potential. The research, published in Joule, could mark a leap toward sustainable aviation.
