Scientists at St. Petersburg State University (SPBU) have developed a new type of polymer-based solid battery, which can be recharged in a few seconds, the press service of SPBU informs, RIA Novosti reports.

According to Oleg Levin, a professor at the Department of Electrochemistry of St. Petersburg State University, to develop this battery, scientists synthesized a polymer based on a nickel-celenium complex, which has a molecular structure that allows for simultaneous high power, capacitance and low-temperature properties. In addition, unlike the cobalt-based batteries commonly used today, it has nothing that can catch fire or explode. It also contains dozens of times less environmentally hazardous metals.

The battery is not without its drawbacks, however, and at this stage it has a capacity of 30% to 40% less than lithium batteries. oleg says efforts are underway to improve this indicator while maintaining the charge and discharge rates.

It is understood that the developers of this new type of battery are now applying for a patent for its invention, which will go to St. Petersburg State University.