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Researchers at Queen’s University Belfast have unveiled a significant innovation that may transform the storage of green energy. As nations strive toward a net zero future, a major obstacle remains: how to store electricity when the sun is not shining or the wind is not blowing. The solution appears to be the ‘flow battery,’ a device that stores energy in liquid chemicals. Historically, these batteries have been prohibitively expensive, often costing up to £3,000. Furthermore, they typically rely on vanadium, a rare metal produced in only a few locations globally. However, Dr. Hugh O’Connor has pioneered a far more affordable alternative using 3D-printing technology. His innovative design substitutes rare metals with iron, reducing the production cost to approximately £74. Since iron is significantly more available than vanadium, this breakthrough could make renewable energy technology much more accessible. The project originated during Dr. O’Connor’s PhD studies. Faced with a limited budget that could not cover commercial equipment, he began experimenting with his own designs. After extensive trial and error, he successfully created a 3D-printed cell that delivered impressive performance. Despite the potential for personal profit, Dr. O’Connor and his supervisor chose to share the design with the international research community at no cost. To facilitate global adoption, they have provided a comprehensive, step-by-step assembly guide, which Dr. O’Connor likens to an Ikea-style manual. The kit includes several components, such as membranes and electrodes, which must be assembled with precision. By making this technology open-source, the team aims to standardize research procedures worldwide. They believe that if all scientists utilize the same equipment, experimental results will be more reliable and easier to compare. This development serves as a perfect example of innovation born from necessity. Because Dr. O’Connor could not afford traditional tools, he invented a more sustainable and cost-effective version that benefits the environment. By prioritizing collaboration over financial gain, this team may have accelerated the global transition to renewable energy.

1. What is the main purpose of the article?

• A.To criticize the high cost of current renewable energy technologies.
• B.To explain how a new 3D-printed battery could make green energy storage cheaper.
• C.To argue that iron is a more efficient energy conductor than vanadium.
• D.To describe the educational background of a famous scientist.

2. According to the text, why is the new battery more accessible than previous models?

• A.It is made of materials that are found all over the world.
• B.It was designed by a student rather than a large corporation.
• C.It can be purchased at furniture stores like Ikea.
• D.It does not require liquid chemicals to function.

3. What inspired Dr. O’Connor to create his own battery design?

• A.He wanted to prove that 3D printing was better than traditional manufacturing.
• B.He was asked by his supervisor to find a way to use iron.
• C.He lacked the financial resources to buy professional research equipment.
• D.He intended to start a company and sell the design for profit.

4. What is the researchers’ attitude toward their discovery?

• A.They are worried that other scientists might steal their ideas.
• B.They are more interested in scientific cooperation than making money.
• C.They are disappointed that the battery is not yet available to the public.
• D.They are confident that their design is the only solution for net zero.

5. In the context of the article, what does the word ‘standardize’ mean?

• A.To increase the speed of scientific experiments.
• B.To ensure that all researchers use the same methods and equipment.
• C.To make a product look more attractive to consumers.
• D.To lower the quality of a product to save money.