Researchers Developed Coordination Polymer for Batteries
The new CuNi(CN) material shows promise for long-lasting, grid-relevant aqueous proton energy storage.
Updated on Oct. 8, 2026 in Energy
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Scientists have engineered a CuNi(CN) coordination polymer designed to improve charge storage in aqueous proton batteries. This material utilizes a topochemical proton-storage mechanism to achieve rapid proton transport.
Why it matters
The development provides a viable pathway for creating grid-relevant energy storage systems that function effectively in acidic electrolytes. This could lead to more durable and efficient battery technologies for large-scale energy applications.
The CuNi(CN) material delivered 130 mAh/g at 1 A/g, while the full cell retained 80% capacity over 8,000 cycles at high rates. It also maintained 98% Coulombic efficiency after 2,000 cycles at 8 A/g.
The details
The polymer enables dual-metal charge storage through multisite proton-coupled electron transfer, supporting efficient operation in 0.5 M HSO electrolyte concentrations. The full cell configuration maintains high performance, delivering 114 mAh/g at 1 A/g and 86 mAh/g at 8 A/g.
Timeline
The research was published on October 8, 2026.
The Big Picture
This study advances the development of grid-relevant energy storage by providing a new material candidate for acidic electrolyte systems. The findings challenge existing limitations in rapid proton transport and dual-metal charge storage paradigms.
This research could lead to the development of longer-lasting, more stable battery technologies for renewable energy grids. These advancements aim to improve the durability and efficiency of energy infrastructure, potentially reducing long-term maintenance needs.
The takeaway
The successful implementation of this polymer marks a significant step toward solving the degradation issues common in aqueous proton batteries. Future research will likely focus on scaling these laboratory results into practical, industrial-sized battery units.
Further reading
For additional context on storage innovations, explore the latest developments in Energy.
More information
Access the full findings in the Nature peer-reviewed research article.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Nature.
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