Every generation seems to have a technology which defines its progress.  Internal combustion engines, transistors, and computer chips have been technical innovations which defined not only the use of technology but also how society functioned.  The United States corporate and academic communities mastering of these technologies fostered the economic progress which helped yield the high living standard of her population.  What will be the area of technology which will be the pathfinder for the future? Will it be solar energy, aerospace engineering, new software? I suggest it may very well be batteries.

Although the concept of generating electricity from a chemical reaction was discovered by the ancients the practical use of batteries did not come about until 1836 when wet cell batteries consisting of glass jars filled with electrolytes where used to power telegraph systems.  At the end of the 19th century the electrolyte solution was replaced with paste and the jars were changed to metal containers to form the early forms of the modern dry cell battery.

Modern battery systems are much smaller and powerful than their early counterparts.  However many current technological advancements including military equipment, medical devices, electric cars and other high tech items are awaiting improvements in battery technology. 

The latest types of batteries are the lithium ion types which have been used in cameras and laptop computers. Unfortunately these are composed of volatile materials and have a tendency to sometimes overheat and catch fire.  Lithium ion batteries are not good for military or vehicle use because a puncture of their shell can start a chain reaction called “thermal runaway” which can lead to an explosion.