Vedanta Group's Hindustan Zinc, India's largest and the world’s second-largest integrated zinc producer, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras).

The company stated that this strategic collaboration is focused on developing a pioneering 1 kWh electrically rechargeable zinc-air battery prototype, emphasizing the shared commitment of both institutions to advancing sustainable energy solutions.

Although lithium-ion batteries currently dominate the market, challenges such as high costs, limited resource availability, and safety concerns are significant. The company highlighted that zinc-based alternatives could effectively address these issues.

Arun Misra, CEO of Hindustan Zinc, noted that zinc, a vital metal for various industries, is poised to play a key role in the global energy transition. He explained that zinc offers a sustainable and economically viable alternative to lithium in energy storage technology. Misra added that the partnership with IIT Madras would propel research into zinc-air battery technology, which could transform the future of energy storage. By exploring new applications of zinc in this field, the company is committed to contributing to a greener, more sustainable future for future generations.

Aravind Kumar Chandiran, who leads the research team at IIT Madras and heads the Hyundai Hydrogen Innovation Hub, will leverage his extensive expertise in energy storage solutions, including solar cells and zinc-air batteries. His team has already developed a prototype of a rechargeable zinc-air battery and holds three Indian patents for innovations in leak resistance, anode recharging, and anode replacement design.

This collaboration aims to enhance energy storage systems, with potential applications in renewable energy, data centers, and telecommunications.