Crabs, with their resistant and fascinating shell, are not only a symbol of marine biodiversity, but are now becoming protagonists of a green turn which could change the world of energy. Thanks to chitosana biodegradable substance extracted from their shells, a new generation of ecological, efficient and environmentally friendly batteries has been created. A solution that not only reduces electronic waste, but transforms what would otherwise have been discarded into a precious resource.
Traditional batteries, with their difficult-to-dispose components, pose a threat to the planet. But chitosan batteries open a different path. Thanks to approximately two-thirds biodegradability, these batteries can decompose in the soil in a few monthssignificantly reducing the environmental impact.
In addition to sustainability, there is performance: these batteries, based on zinc and chitosan, guarantee almost total energy efficiency, maintaining the 99.7% capacity even after 1,000 charging cycles. A characteristic that makes them perfect both for accumulating energy from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, and for powering small electronic devices.
From sea to land: when waste becomes a resource
Every year, the food industry produces tons of crustacean shells. Instead of considering these wastes as useless, science has found a way to transform them into one resource for the technology of the future. Chitosan, made from the chitin found in crab shells, has been processed to become a gel electrolyte. This natural component improves ion conduction without the use of toxic substances or heavy metals.
The result is a battery that not only respects the planet, but is inspired by the concept of circular economyusing what nature offers to create cleaner and more sustainable energy. Crab shells, often forgotten, thus demonstrate that even the simplest of marine life can become a symbol of innovation.
