Japan Releases World’s First Sodium-Ion Power Banks
Japanese company Elecom has launched sales of the world’s first sodium-ion power banks. The devices are declared frost-resistant and fire-safe, which is something lithium-ion batteries, which are used in the vast majority of portable energy storage devices, cannot boast of. The company’s supply is limited, which prevents one person from buying more than three devices.
The device has a capacity of 9000 mAh and recharges in about two hours. The power bank is capable of delivering up to 45 W via the USB-C PD port and 18 W via the USB-A port. Dimensions are 87 x 31 x 106 mm and weighs 350 g.
Unlike lithium-ion counterparts, the devices are declared fireproof and do not explode. Uninterrupted performance is promised at temperatures from -35° to 50°C during discharging and from 0°C to 40°C during charging.
Sodium is more abundant in nature and is easier to mine compared to lithium, the extraction of which pollutes water and land. Sodium is also safer than highly toxic lithium in the event of its return to the environment.
The DE-C55L-9000BK model comes in a black case, while the DE-C55L-9000LGY comes in a light gray case. The cost of these Elecom power banks in Japan is 9,980 yen ($68), which is significantly more expensive than similar devices with lithium-ion batteries.
