Advantages of antimony batteries in energy storage

Energy storage is another area where antimony shines. Liquid-metal batteries, a promising solution for storing solar energy, depend on antimony's unique properties. These batteries enable efficient capture and distribution of excess solar power, addressing the intermittency challenges of renewable energy sources.

Pure antimony material, although energy density and power density are not as good as other materials. Its simple synthesis process can bring some economic benefits. The composite modification means can realize more considerable electrochemical performance enhancement [5, 58].

Owing to its high theoretical specific capacity, effective working voltage, and abundant raw materials, antimony sulfide (Sb 2 S 3) was regarded as one promising anode material for electrochemical energy conversion and storage, especially regarding alkali-ion (Li +, Na +, and K +) batteries.

Antimony's dual role in solar technology and defense highlights its unique importance. This underscores the need for a balanced approach to resource allocation, ensuring that both renewable energy goals and national security needs are met. The escalating U.S.-China trade war further complicates this balance.

However, the barrier to widespread adoption of batteries is their high cost. Here we describe a lithium–antimony–lead liquid metal battery that potentially meets the performance specifications for stationary energy storage applications.

Considerations are made in terms of the economics of the material and the fact that it can be commercialized. Pure antimony material, although energy density and power density are not as good as other materials. Its simple synthesis process can bring some economic benefits.