For decades, scientists have sought ways to counter our dependence on lithium-ion batteries. These traditional, rechargeable batteries energize today's most ubiquitous consumer electronics—from laptops to cell phones to electric cars.

Lithium-ion batteries have an internal chemistry that leads to major fires and toxic pollutants when they combust. What role can consumers play in keeping themselves and the general public safe?

The debate over whether or not Halstead should get a battery energy storage system is heating up. Residents gathered at a community meeting last night over the potential construction of the facility in city limits. Several concerns were raised, including the potential for the lithium-ion battery storage facility to pollute nearby farmland.

Researchers at the Dincă Group from Princeton University have developed a sodium-ion battery that utilizes a new organic cathode material, bis-tetraaminobenzoquinone (TAQ), which has shown remarkable energy performance.