Blue-jeans indigo dye could make future solid-state batteries greener

Researchers at Concordia University have discovered that indigo dye, historically used for coloring denim, can significantly improve solid-state lithium-ion batteries. Unlike traditional liquid electrolytes, solid-state batteries use solid materials for lithium-ion movement, enhancing safety and energy capacity. The study found that indigo not only stores and releases lithium ions but also activates the solid electrolyte, creating a synergistic effect that boosts the battery’s overall capacity beyond what either component could achieve alone. Additionally, these batteries maintain stable performance even at temperatures as low as minus ten degrees Celsius, addressing a common limitation of organic-material-based batteries. This breakthrough is notable because organic materials typically struggle with instability when integrated into solid-state batteries due to excessive interactions with solid components. However, the controlled reaction between indigo and the electrolyte in this research enables steady and predictable battery chemistry, which is crucial for developing greener, more sustainable energy storage solutions. The use of natural molecules like indigo could simplify supply chains, reduce costs, and support the transition to more accessible