Concrete, a fundamental material in construction, is evolving with the introduction of a groundbreaking variant known as electron-conducting carbon concrete (ec3), developed by researchers at MIT. This innovative material not only retains its primary function of structural support but also has the potential to serve as a battery, capable of storing and releasing electrical energy through its unique composition. By mixing cement, water, ultra-fine carbon black, and electrolytes, ec3 forms a conductive network that allows standard architectural elements like walls and sidewalks to function akin to large-scale batteries.
Recent advancements have significantly enhanced the energy storage capacity of ec3, overcoming previous limitations related to voltage and scalability. The MIT research team has demonstrated that approximately five cubic meters of this specialized concrete could potentially store enough energy to fulfill the daily electricity requirements of an average household. This breakthrough was made possible through the application of high-resolution 3D imaging techniques, which provided invaluable insights into the behavior of the carbon network and its interaction with various electrolytes. According to Damian Stefaniuk, a research scientist involved in the project, their findings indicate a broad range of potential electrolytes, including seawater, which could open new avenues for applications in coastal constructions, such as supporting offshore wind farms.
In addition to enhancing energy storage capabilities, the researchers have optimized the process of integrating electrolytes into the concrete mix, allowing for the creation of thicker electrodes. Although ec3 may not compete directly with traditional batteries in terms of energy density, its ability to be seamlessly incorporated into building structures presents a significant advantage, as it could potentially last as long as the buildings themselves. To illustrate this synergy between structural integrity and energy storage, the team successfully constructed a miniature arch that not only bore its own weight but also powered an LED light, showcasing the promising future of ec3 in sustainable architecture.
Source: Building materials are getting closer to doubling as batteries via MIT Technology Review