News Chemistry

Extreme cold is no match for a new battery

The rechargeable cells still work even at –70° C

battery in snow

CHILL OUT  A new type of battery that works at extremely low temps could help build sturdier consumer electronics or power vehicles on other planets.

Kseniia Sukhanova/Shutterstock

By Maria Temming

- More than 2 years ago

A new type of battery can stand being left out in the cold. 

This rechargeable battery churns out charge even at –70° Celsius, a temperature where the typical lithium-ion batteries that power many of today’s cell phones, electric cars and other devices don’t work.