A new study published in Science brings scientists one step closer to developing a lithium-air battery, which could someday be lighter and last longer than the lithium-ion batteries currently found in cell phones, laptops, and hybrid cars.

Lithium-air batteries are a hot area of investigation—a handful of research institutions and companies are currently exploring the technology for use in vehicles. However, the technology is in its infancy and many challenges to a practical rechargeable lithium-air battery remain.