First Working Quantum Battery Proves Bigger Really Does Mean Faster
Australian scientists have developed the first working quantum battery prototype, a device that uses quantum physics—rather than chemistry—to charge, store, and release energy. The prototype, made from layered organic materials, charges wirelessly via a femtosecond laser pulse and stores energy for nanoseconds. Unlike conventional batteries, which charge more slowly as capacity increases, quantum batteries exhibit “superabsorption”: the more molecules they contain, the faster each charges. Mathematically, charging time scales as 1/√N, meaning that doubling the size nearly halves the charging time. This key property, confirmed through prior theory and partial demonstrations, is now realized in a device that both charges and discharges at room temperature, unlike some cryogenic rivals. Although the current prototype stores only billionths of electron-volts, suitable mainly for quantum computing applications, it marks a major step by enabling energy extraction as electrical current. The research opens new avenues for future development, with CSIRO seeking partners for further progress.
