AI-driven computing and the growth of clean energy adoption are increasing demand on power infrastructure. Batteries, as key parts of that infrastructure, are under particular strain.
SuperDielectrics, based in Cambridge, has developed a zinc-based battery technology to address these challenges. This water-based system is intended to help manage power surges caused by variable renewable energy input and the high energy demands of data centres.
The company has reported independent test results indicating that its battery technology outperforms both standard and next-generation lithium-ion batteries across several performance measures. The testing was carried out by the UK defence organisation QinetiQ and highlighted improved safety, longer cycle life, and faster charge-discharge performance under high-power conditions.
The core of SuperDielectrics’ approach is a proprietary polymer. In testing, the batteries did not show thermal runaway, fires, or explosions even under severe stress conditions, unlike some lithium-ion systems.
Temperature-dependent performance comparisons showed the following results:
- Charge performance at -0°C: around 48 times better
At room temperature:
- Cycle life increased by up to 13 times under intensive cycling
- Discharge performance around 10 times higher, while maintaining over 85% capacity at 100°C
- Charge performance about 8 times better, maintaining nominal capacity at elevated temperatures
The technology is positioned as a potential grid-level energy storage option, with applications in AI computing infrastructure and grid stabilisation. It is presented as an alternative to lithium-ion systems for high-demand use cases, with reduced energy footprint and cost implications.
SuperDielectrics states that its polymer technology could play a role in future energy storage systems, enabling safer and more compact power solutions for modern computing and energy networks.
