Lithium-ion batteries have become commonplace in tools and technology today, from laptops to cell phones and more. What is next? Researchers are working to engineer a new type of electrolyte that is just as efficient and powerful as lithium-ion technology, but is also more stable and abundant. One such approach is solid-state sodium-ion batteries. Olivier Delaire, associate professor of mechanical engineering and materials science, is leading a new “Beyond the Horizon” project that seeks to bridge that gap in understanding and make sodium-ion batteries a reality. Duke Engineering launched the Beyond the Horizon initiative to provide interdisciplinary teams with substantial investment to begin pursuing extremely high-risk, high-reward projects that have the potential for deep, transformative societal impact. READ MORE.