The Perfect Battery Material Is DANGEROUS

This video dives into the surprisingly explosive journey of creating a high-energy rechargeable battery, from basic chemistry and the first lithium cells to modern lithium-ion powerhouses. You’ll learn how tiny metal “needles” called dendrites can short-circuit cells, why batteries sometimes burst into flames, and how researchers managed to tame one of the most volatile metals for record-breaking energy density.

Along the way, Derek Muller teams up with top scientists and engineers (plus a cameo from General Motors) to unpack every twist in battery history—complete with lab demos, blow-up experiments, and credit to the massive production crew that made it all possible.

Watch on YouTube