The 2019 Nobel Prize in chemistry was on Wednesday awarded to three scientists, whose contribution to the development of lithium-ion batteries has been phenomenal. The Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences awarded the 2019 Nobel Prize in Chemistry to John Goodenough, Stanley Whittingham, and Akira Yoshino. The three are expected to share the proceeds of the prize, about $900,000, amongst themselves.
Their contribution to the development of lithium-ion batteries can be traced as far back as the 1970s and 1980s. Lithium-ion batteries have since been utilized and commercialized in various industrial, commercial, and home uses. The technology behind the operation of the lithium-ion battery enables the creation of super-lightweight rechargeable batteries, which can be utilized in various portable appliances, including smartphones, computers, cameras, and even power tools.
Since their roll out in the market, they have been diversely applied in various environments, including finding their way to the International Space Station. The lithium-ion battery technology has managed to outlive other new tech developments in the energy storage industry. They are diversely applied in the process of harnessing solar power and storing it for future use. Through the lithium-ion technology, governments can foresee the future of advocacy for climate change, even as existing fossil fuels continue to cause major negative environmental impacts.
John Goodenough is a 97-year-old professor at the University of Texas. Despite being the oldest winner of the Nobel Prize, John continues to facilitate active research in related industries and sectors. Akira Yoshino, on the other hand, is a 71-year-old honorary fellow and professor at Meijo University in Japan. Stanley Whittingham, on the other hand, is a 77-year-old professor at Binghamton University in New York.
The trio’s contribution to the development of the lithium-ion battery phased out the first rechargeable lead-acid battery, which was rolled out in the 1850s. Despite the application of lead-acid batteries in various automobile purposes, lithium-ion batteries are making a huge impact on the automobile industry and are being used by electric vehicle manufacturers, such as Tesla, to store energy.
Although the lithium-ion battery does have some downfalls, especially relating to their efficiency when recharged consecutively, the technology is far more sustainable and has a promising future. Winning this Nobel Prize will certainly put the lithium-ion battery discovery at a vantage point for more global utilization. This is the surest way to ensure that the discovery fulfills its target in facilitating more tech advances.
