Aug 12 2010
Nano-enabled (or nanostructured) batteries are an advanced generation of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries and battery systems.
The concept of nano-enabled batteries is still new and in its developing stage. Use of nanotechnology in battery production and development will enhance the compatibility of power supplies with semiconductor processes, enabling power to be integrated directly onto processors, ASICs, as well as other chip-scale designs. Fruition of such a scenario will result in a miniature power source for future high-power drain devices.
A major portion of development and marketing efforts for nano batteries are focused on transportation, stationary power, and military applications. In the automotive and military markets, nano enabled batteries are being designed primarily to supplement or replace diesel and gasoline engines. Nano energy devices when embedded within micro devices, acts as an autonomous source of power, which enables new functions. Although its use in automobiles is still not a widespread practice, the numerous advantages offered, such as, its ecological benignity, higher energy conservation through efficient exploitation of existing power sources, and physical and chemical stability, among others, promise a robust future. In stationary power applications, nano batteries are being developed to regulate and conserve the constant supply of electricity. In addition, the sector is receiving support from government in terms of financial grants and subsidies. As production increases and manufacturing processes are made more cost-effective, Nano-Enabled Batteries market are poised for further market adoption in coming years.
Conventional batteries such as lithium ion batteries, lead acid batteries, nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries, and nickel cadmium batteries, which have been existing in the market for over hundred years now, pose stiff competition to nano-enabled batteries in the marketplace. This explains the strategic positioning of the technology as a battery ‘enhancer’ rather than ‘replacer’ in the automotive applications market. Manufacturing and research companies opine nanotechnology to be a power component of a device, while batteries to be an energy component, with current focus of research agendas only geared towards getting these two technologies work together to make vehicle-to-grid technology more feasible.
The global economic recession which dented growth of several industries, until now failed to perturb the market for nano-enabled batteries, largely because this high-end technology hinges onto the cost benefits. Also, the relatively untapped potential in major end-use applications ensures that the industry has the opportunity to reach its full potential. As stated by the new market research report on Nano-Enabled Batteries, Customized Batteries continues to remain the most prominent product segment for Nano-Enabled Batteries, having accounting for a share of more than 50% of total value sales.
Key players in the marketplace include A123Systems Inc, Advanced Battery Technologies Inc, Altair Nanotechnologies Inc, Axeon Power Limited, EcoloCap Solutions Inc, Ener1 Inc, NanoEner Inc, Front Edge Technology Inc, mPhase Technologies Inc, and Valence Technology Inc., among others.
The report titled “Nano-Enabled Batteries: A Global Market Report” published by Global Industry Analysts, Inc., provides a comprehensive review of industry overview, product overview, regulatory overview, research and development activities, major alliances, product introductions/innovations, recent industry activity and profiles of major players. The study analyzes global market data and analytics in terms of annual revenues by product segments including - Large Format Modules and Customized Batteries (Wireless Power Tools, Laptops).
Source: http://www.strategyr.com/