South Korea Enhances Airport Safety Following Fatal Jeju Air Crash

Researchers from Pohang University of Science and Technology in South Korea announced a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology that could enhance energy retention and durability. According to a lab summary by Tech Xplore, this breakthrough involves the use of lithium-rich layered oxide as a cathode material, which has been shown to increase energy density by up to 20% compared to traditional nickel-based batteries. The team focused on addressing the common issues of capacity fading and voltage decay that have hindered the commercial viability of these batteries. By modifying the electrolyte composition, they effectively reduced oxygen release at the cathode interface, which substantially improves battery performance. Their results indicate an 84.3% energy retention rate after 700 charge-discharge cycles, compared to just 37.1% for traditional versions after 300 cycles. As innovations continue in battery technology, experts believe these findings could pave the way for cleaner, more efficient energy solutions for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, according to Professor Jihyun Hong.

Researchers at South Korea's Pohang University of Science and Technology have made a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology, potentially enhancing energy retention and durability. According to a report by Tech Xplore, the team focused on a lithium-rich layered oxide material to improve battery performance, aiming to address issues of capacity fading and voltage decay that have impeded commercial viability. The new cathode design, which includes modifications to the electrolyte, boosted energy retention to 84.3% after 700 charge/discharge cycles, compared to just 37.1% for traditional nickel-based batteries after 300 cycles. This innovation not only increases energy density by up to 20% but also makes the technology more economical and sustainable by reducing reliance on nickel and cobalt, as noted by the researchers. Professor Jihyun Hong emphasized the potential impact of this research, stating, “We believe this work will provide new directions for developing next-generation cathode materials.” The findings could significantly contribute to the future of electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

A fire erupted on an Air Busan passenger plane at Gimhae International Airport in Busan, South Korea, on January 28, 2025, prompting the evacuation of 176 people onboard, including 169 passengers and seven crew members. According to the National Fire Agency, the rear section of the Airbus A321 caught fire shortly before 10:30 PM, but the blaze was fully extinguished, and the evacuation was conducted safely using inflatable slides. Three individuals sustained minor injuries during the evacuation. While the cause of the fire remains unidentified, the incident marks a significant event in South Korea's aviation history, coming just a month after a tragic crash involving a Jeju Air Boeing 737-800 that resulted in 179 fatalities. The transport ministry has launched an investigation into the recent incident to determine the underlying factors leading to the fire.