Scientists have developed a safer sodium-ion battery using a special nonflammable electrolyte that forms a protective barrier when temperatures rise. This heat-triggered polymer layer blocks reactions that normally cause thermal runaway, the dangerous process behind battery fires and explosions. In tests, the batteries remained stable even under extreme conditions like high heat and physical damage, while still delivering strong performance. The breakthrough could lead to safer batteries for electric vehicles, energy storage, and other high-power uses.
