Japanese electronics brand Elecom has introduced the world’s first power bank powered by a sodium-ion battery. Elecom’s DE-C55L-9000 resembles a typical power bank with its compact, rounded-brick design. Inside, however, lies a 9,000-mAh sodium-ion battery, capable of delivering 45-W USB Type-C and 18-W Type-A charging.
The key advantage of sodium-ion batteries is their reliance on sodium instead of lithium, cobalt, and copper, reducing dependence on resource-intensive mining operations. Additionally, these batteries offer improved safety, as they are far less prone to catching fire than their lithium-ion counterparts.
Sodium-ion batteries work similarly to lithium-ion batteries but use sodium salts for the electrolyte and sodium-based cathode materials. One of their primary benefits is their extended cycle life, boasting 5,000 charge cycles—far beyond the typical 500 to 1,000 cycles seen in lithium-ion cells. Another significant advantage is their ability to function in extreme conditions, operating efficiently in temperatures ranging from -30°F (-34°C) to 122°F (50°C). This makes them an ideal choice for outdoor workers and users in harsh environments.
Another major advantage of sodium-ion technology is its cost-effectiveness. Sodium is widely available in sea salt and the Earth’s crust, making it a more sustainable and accessible alternative to lithium. Additionally, sodium-ion cells can be transported at zero volts, greatly reducing fire hazards during shipping.
Despite its groundbreaking technology, Elecom’s sodium-ion power bank comes at a premium price. Retailing at 9,980 JPY (approximately $67), it is notably more expensive than comparable 10,000-mAh lithium-ion power banks, which range from $16 to $24. It is also heavier, weighing 12.3 oz (350 g) compared to similar Anker power banks that range between 7.5 oz and 8.6 oz (212 g – 244 g). The weight difference is due to sodium-ion batteries’ lower energy density, which remains one of the key challenges preventing their widespread adoption, particularly in electric vehicles.
While sodium-ion technology is still in its early stages, it has immense potential for stationary energy storage solutions and low-range electric vehicles. The introduction of this power bank signifies a promising future for battery technology, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
With continued advancements, sodium-ion batteries could soon revolutionize energy storage across multiple industries.
