The improvements in cell energy density that we have achieved through this project has taken the technology beyond the current state of the art commercially available for super capacitors, and the power density achieve is beyond the current state of the art for commercially available Li-ion batteries.
ZapGo C-Ion cells can therefore be effectively utilised for energy storage and delivery in a wider range of industries than was previously possible. The power tool and cleaning markets have niche sectors within them, which can quickly exploit the benefits of the fast-charging, high cycle life offered by C-Ion. A prime example is industrial assembly line applications, where the power tools are used in repetitive tasks with fast takt times. In this scenario the tools experience short bursts of activity, with periods of idle time in between each cycle – a C-Ion pack can deliver the energy required for each assembly activity and then recharge again in the ‘down-time’ in each takt period. The extended tool life, significantly reduced maintenance costs and improved health benefits from a lighter tool show the range of positive impacts that will be enjoyed by businesses employing this technology.
There are advantages for all stakeholders when C-Ion is used to replace traditional li-ion batteries:
- For business users the lifetime costs for this technology will be far lower due to its minimal transportation restrictions, modest maintenance requirements and long cycle life. The safety of the non-flammable, non-toxic cells will protect direct users of this technology.
- Society will benefit from the low environmental impact due to the materials used and their recyclability. Additionally, there will be re-lifing opportunities as the C-Ion power packs will outlast many of the products which they were originally sold with.
- For equipment manufacturers, integrating this technology into their products, will offer commercial advantages, e.g. new designs, and therefore new markets, that are only possible with this technology, changing user behaviour to reflect new fast-charging capabilities and, with the long life, enabling new business models that reflect the growing trend towards lifetime ‘pay-per-use’ platforms.
