Hydrogen anions are highly reactive and polarizable, offering unique energy storage potential. But until now, no electrolyte had combined the high conductivity, thermal stability, and electrode compatibility needed for a functioning battery.
In tests, the prototype used sodium alanate as the cathode and cerium dihydride as the anode. It reached an initial discharge capacity of 984 mAh per gram and maintained 402 mAh per gram after 20 cycles. A stacked version delivered 1.9 volts and successfully powered an LED light, proving its feasibility beyond the lab.