Non-flammable laptop batteries being developed

Scientists are hoping to develop laptop batteries that do not contain flammable materials to eliminate the risk of the devices exploding.

In 2006, several computer manufacturers including Lenovo, Apple and Dell recalled laptops following concerns over the lithium-ion content in batteries.

But German researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Silicate Research in Wurzburg have released details of a non-flammable lithium-ion battery based on a polymer electrolyte, reports Vnunet.com.

Unlike the liquid electrolyte used in conventional lithium-ion batteries, polymer electrodes are not flammable.

"We have succeeded in replacing the inflammable organic electrolytes with a non-flammable polymer that retains its shape," said team leader Dr. Kai-Christian Möller.

"This considerably enhances the safety of lithium-ion batteries. What’s more, because it is a solid substance, the electrolyte cannot leak out of the battery."

Although the researchers have a prototype of the new battery, it is not expected to be used by consumers for another three to five years.