St. Berchmans Autonomous College (SB College), Changanassery, has won an Indian patent for developing Rechargeable Magnesium Ion Coin Cell. Developed by Manuja M. and Jijo Jose from the college’s Physics department, this innovation offers a safer and cost-effective alternative to conventional lithium-based batteries.An official statement said the magnesium-ion battery, designed for sensors and low-power electronic devices, offers multiple advantages. Magnesium is abundant, and far less prone to fire or explosion than lithium. The technology also allows higher energy storage in a compact form.A critical breakthrough was the development of a new piezoelectric cathode, paired with a piezoelectric polymer electrolyte, which significantly enhances battery performance. The coin cell comprises pure magnesium as the anode, the piezoelectric cathode, and the piezoelectric polymer electrolyte.The patent, numbered 569664, was secured rapidly through the expedited examination process under Section 24C (1) (h) of the Indian Patents Act.Published - September 11, 2025 07:59 pm IST