Iron Pyrite Quantum Dots
USED IN THE qSAFE CATHODE

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An intercalation reaction in the qSafe battery involves the lithium ions (yellow) moving between the microscopic shelves of the iron pyrite quantum dots (blue).

The cathode of the qSafe power cell is made of iron pyrite quantum dots (QDs). These QDs are energy efficient due to their lightweight nature. The cathode of the qSafe power cell will go through an intercalation reaction, as shown in the diagram above. Currently, technological limitations prevent this intercalation reaction from taking place with iron pyrite QDs, causing a much more unstable conversion reaction to occur instead. With future technological advances, the more stable intercalation reaction can be used with iron pyrite QDs in the qSafe power cell, allowing for a more efficient and stable battery.

​qSafe's Ethical Solution

​A typical lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery consists of a cathode
made of cobalt. Cobalt is most commonly mined in
​the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

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Thousands of men, women, and children work in the cobalt mines in the Congo.
These mines have few safety precautions and are also prone to cave-ins
due to roughly built supports. The majority of the miners have no hard hat
or other safety equipment to wear, and children are often the ones to go into
​the mines because they can fit into the narrow tunnels.
​ 
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Instead of cobalt, the qSafe power cell uses iron pyrite, which is far more common and readily accessible. Utilizing this alternative metal in the cathode makes 
the qSafe a more ethical and economical battery choice. ​

For further information on child mining in the Congo, watch this video by MintPress News regarding a report by Amnesty International.