Sodium-Sulfur Battery
2Na + 3S → Na2S3
Overview
Sodium-sulfur batteries operate at 300–350°C with molten sodium anode, molten sulfur cathode, and a solid beta-alumina ceramic electrolyte that conducts Na⁺ ions. Cell voltage is about 2.0 V with energy density of 150–240 Wh/kg. Both sodium and sulfur are abundant and cheap, making NaS attractive for grid storage.
Participants
Everyday Example
Japan uses NaS batteries for grid-scale energy storage, with over 200 MW of installed capacity stabilizing the power grid.
Industrial Importance
NaS batteries are deployed in grid-scale energy storage (MW-scale), peak shaving, and renewable energy integration.
Properties
- Type
- Electrochemical
- Reversible
- Yes
- Energy
- Exothermic
- ΔH
- -420.0 kJ/mol
Related Reactions
Alkaline Battery Discharge
Anodizing of Aluminum
Cathodic Protection (Zinc Sacrificial Anode)
Chlor-Alkali Electrolysis
Chrome Electroplating
Copper Electroplating
Daniell Cell (Zinc-Copper Galvanic Cell)
Electrochemical CO₂ Reduction to CO
Electrochemical Machining (ECM)
Electrolysis of Molten NaCl (Downs Process)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the equation for Sodium-Sulfur Battery?
The balanced equation is: 2Na + 3S → Na₂S₃.
What type of reaction is Sodium-Sulfur Battery?
Sodium-Sulfur Battery is a electrochemical reaction. It is reversible under certain conditions.
Is Sodium-Sulfur Battery exothermic or endothermic?
Sodium-Sulfur Battery is exothermic (releases energy). The enthalpy change (ΔH) is -420.0 kJ/mol.