John Goodenough: The Man Who Revolutionized Battery Technology
The world has lost a brilliant mind. John Goodenough, a US materials scientist and Nobel Prize winner, passed away at the age of 100. His groundbreaking research and discoveries have shaped the very essence of our modern lives, particularly in the realm of lithium-ion batteries.
Goodenough's contributions to battery technology have had an indelible impact on our everyday lives. Whether it's a smartphone, laptop, electric vehicle, or any other high-powered mobile device, we owe their existence to Goodenough's pioneering work. As a professor at the University of Texas, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in chemistry in 2019, becoming the oldest recipient in history.
According to a statement from the University of Texas, Goodenough's research in the 1970s and 1980s revolutionized the field of energy storage. His groundbreaking work led to the development of the lithium-ion battery, which has become an integral component of virtually every portable electronic device in the world. From smartphones to laptops and electric vehicles, Goodenough's inventions have improved the lives of billions of people worldwide.
In addition to his contributions to battery technology, Goodenough's research in material science and energy storage solutions had far-reaching applications. His countless patents and papers continue to shape the way we manage power today. Furthermore, his Nobel Prize recognized his foundational work in random access memory (RAM) during his time at MIT's Lincoln Laboratory.
Despite his immense contributions and the impact he has had on our future, Goodenough lived a modest life and selflessly signed away most of his rights. According to an obituary in the New York Times, even in his later years, he remained active and published a paper in 2017 on a glass battery, a promising alternative to lithium-ion batteries that owe their existence to his research.
Rest in peace, Dr. Goodenough.
Find out more about the batteries that power our mobile lives:
