MIT researchers found that subtle chemical patterns persist in conventionally manufactured metal alloys, despite the mixing involved. The surprising finding could be used to tune metallic properties for aerospace, energy, and more.

As affordable alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) face problems such as safety issues, limited lifespan, and electrolyte incompatibility with high-capacity electrodes. A non-flammable electrolyte using fluorinated triethyl phosphate (FTEP) as a weakly solvating solvent to create an anion-rich solvation sheath around potassium ions was developed. This innovation facilitates stable potassium plating, efficient K⁺ insertion into graphite, and prevents aluminum corrosion, paving the way for safer and more durable PIBs.