Researchers at Northwestern University have developed a technology for lithium-ion rechargeable batteries that allows them to hold a charge ten times longer than current batteries, and charge ten times faster, according to R&D Magazine.  Going forward, the engineers are looking to develop a new safety mechanism for lithium-ion batteries prompting them to automatically and reversibly shut off at high temperatures.

With these batteries having become indispensable components of portable electronics and electric vehicles, both of which represent growth markets, demand for lithium will likely continue to soar, making current efforts to boost domestic production through new technologies all the more timely.

Successes in research like this one underscore that technological progress and resource development go hand in hand. As applications for many high-tech, as well as mainstay metals continue to grow, so does dependency on these elements.  A nation that fails to overhaul its critical mineral strategy accordingly, and fails to explore and develop the resources it has, runs the risk of being marginalized in the global race for resources.