TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) has partnered with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) upon researching and developing third generation battery technology.

“This type of battery is lighter, higher energy capacity, and safe from the risk of catching fire,” said ITB Rector Kadarsah Suryadi to Tempo on Monday, November 12.

The battery in question is known to be a solid state battery which is planned to be applicable in cars, motorcycles, and other battery-powered electronic devices. “Battery research for ships has yet been conducted,” said Kadarsah.

The joint research project is part of the Sustainable Higher Education Research Alliances (SHERA) program that is funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID).

The program has established partnerships with a number of campuses in Indonesia since its ratification in September 2017 which focuses its research on public health and infectious diseases, food security, environmental issues, energy, maritime affairs, and innovative technologies.

ITB was appointed to lead the consortium upon the creation of electrical modes that include the third generation battery technology that is deemed to be vital in the future.

The consortium comprises of researchers from the Sriwijaya University, Dipenogoro University, Kalimantan Institute of Technology in Balikpapan, and Lambung Mangkurat University, Sam Ratulangi University, and the Sebelas Maret University of Surakarta.

ANWAR SISWADI