Lithium batteries have been a boon for the modern world replacing the heavier, single-use alkaline type in everything from wristwatches to jumbo jets. <br /><br /> Unfortunately, these rechargeable batteries are already struggling to keep up with our ever-increasing energy needs, especially for mobile phones, and they are also far from environmentally friendly. <br /><br /> Now researchers at Stanford University in California have unveiled what they claim is the first high-performance aluminium battery rechargeable in as little as one minute.<br /><br /> What’s more, it is allegedly more durable than rivals, and can withstand upwards of 7,500 charge cycles without loss of capacity, compared with 1,000 for Lithium batteries. <br /><br /> Its other remarkable feature is that it is bendable: “It’s possible to have a bendable cell phone. With a bendable screen you have bendable batteries on the back and it’s great,” says Stanford University graduate student, Ming Gong. <br /><br /> The new batteries are made of aluminium and graphite, mat
