rates are slow. Through nanotechnology, faster diffusion rates can be achieved. Nanoparticles require shorter distances for the transport of electrons, which leads to faster diffusion rates and a higher conductivity, which ultimately leads to a greater power density. Advantages of nanotechnology Using nanotechnology to manufacture of batteries offers the following benefits: Increasing the available power from a battery and decreasing the time required to recharge a battery. These benefits are achieved by coating the surface of an electrode with nanoparticles, increasing the surface area of the electrode thereby allowing more current to flow between the electrode and the chemicals inside the battery. Nanomaterials can be used as a coating to separate the electrodes from any liquids in the battery, when the battery is not in use. In the current battery technology, the liquids and solids interact, causing a low level discharge. This decreases the shelf life of a battery. Disadvantages of nanotechnology Nanotechnology provides its own challenges in batteries: Nanoparticles have low density and high surface area. The greater the surface area, the more likely reactions are to occur at the surface with the air. This serves to destabilize the materials in the battery. Owing to nanoparticle's low density, a higher interparticle resistance exists, decreasing the electrical conductivity of the material. Nanomaterials can be difficult to manufacture, increasing their cost. While nanomaterials may greatly improve the abilities of a battery, they may be cost-prohibitive to make. Active and past research Much research has been performed surrounding lithium-ion batteries to maximize their potential. In order to properly harness clean energy resources, such as solar power, wind power and tidal energy batteries, capable of storing massive amounts of energy used in grid energy storage, are required. Lithium iron phosphate electrodes are being researched for potential applications to grid energy storage. Electric vehicles are another technology requiring improved batteries. Electric vehicle batteries currently require large charge times, effectively prohibiting the use for long-distance electric cars. Nanostructured anode materials Graphite and SEI The anode in lithium-ion batteries is almost always graphite. Graphite anodes need to improve their thermal stability and create a higher power capability. Graphite and certain other electrolytes can undergo reactions that reduce the electrolyte and create a SEI, effectively reducing the potential of the battery. Nanocoatings at the SEI are currently being researched to stop these reactions from occurring. In Li-ion batteries, the SEI is necessary for thermal stability, but hinders