Recyclable battery that can’t catch fire made at UMD [Video]

BELTSVILLE, Md. — A Maryland-grown company has ramped up production of a battery that cannot catch on fire and is dramatically better for the environment, according to supporters.

ION Storage Systems of Beltsville hit a major milestone this week as it commissioned a new production line, with VIPs — including members of the U.S. Senate and House — saying the technology has the potential to fundamentally change the existing lithium-ion battery business globally.

“Our battery is completely non flammable,” said ION Storage System’s CEO Ricky Hanna, who noted the technology does not rely on elements such as nickel and cobalt, which are linked to environmentally and socially harmful mining practices in countries like Russia and The Republic of Congo. “When we drive an EV, we want to think we’re doing great things for the environment. The dirty little …