By Tobias Carroll When you think of batteries and the materials used to make them, what comes to mind? Nickel is one ingredient that’s become somewhat ubiquitous; the same is true for lithium. But one group of researchers is attempting to use an unexpected source for their next-generation batteries: wood. While the idea of wooden batteries can seem absurd on the surface, the science behind this endeavor makes more sense than you’d think. A new article by Scooter Doll at Electrek outlines the thinking that informed this project. The initiative comes from the Swedish company Northvolt, whose fou…