State-owned i-CATS University College has been urged to explore the possibility of developing a more environmentally friendly battery material as a substitute for the lithium battery.

Sarawak Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg said that in the age of electrification, batteries which are mostly made from lithium are currently pivotal to powering our gadgets and electric cars.

He said although lithium battery is efficient for storing power, it is not the most environmentally friendly as it is difficult to dispose of.

“After five to ten years, you have to dispose of the (lithium) battery and lithium being a major part of the battery is not easily disposed of,” he said in his speech at the opening ceremony of Fuya Energy Sdn Bhd new plant here, today.

“At the moment, research has been undertaken by scientists to look at the possibility of using substitute material from lithium, they are also looking into zinc ion as a substitute,” he said.

— BERNAMA

Source: BERNAMA News Agency