MIT's Nano Storage Could Replace Hybrid Batteries

mattnyc99 writes "Last week we discussed Popular Mechanics' reporting from MIT, but missed one of the coolest breakthrough of all, something scientists have been working on quietly as Detroit spends money elsewhere. The Lab for Electromagnetic and Electronic Systems has been doing some mega-efficient work with ultracapacitors, which store drastically less energy than a battery but have essentially none of the drawbacks — especially via carbon nanotube arrays. Automotive experts say the new research is enough to start replacing batteries in hybrid cars, and plug-in vehicles might not be far behind. From the scientist who thinks ultracapacitors are potential competitors for the pack in his Toyota Prius: 'I try to contain myself, because it hasn't been proven yet, but it could be a real paradigm change.'"

Comments

Re:Did anybody elses Science Teacher

[eln]

Those were for my lunch, you insensitive clod!

Re:Ka Booooooom!!!

[fahrbot-bot]

If anything pierces the dielectric, all the energy stored in the capacitor will discharge violently in milliseconds.

I hear something like this happens with condoms too.

Re:Paradigm?

[HTH NE1]

paradigm change Change for a pair of dimes
See also "nickel and dime you to death".