Battery developer SOLiTHOR reports progress in the development of its next-generation lithium metal solid-state batteries (SSBs) designed to meet the demands of the maritime industry and accelerate the electric transition.
These developments include major improvements in cyclability, energy density, and industrialisation readiness, which SOLiTHOR believes gives it a position among the leaders in the solid-state battery sector.
Recent testing of SOLiTHOR’s pouch cells, conducted at a moderate temperature (25°C) and with external pressure (below 72 psi/4.9 atm), has resulted in 1000 full charge discharge cycles with a coulombic efficiency above 99.2%. Under these conditions, the test measured endurance, seen as a key performance criterion for long-lasting maritime applications. The result was said to be well above the accepted commercial target.
SOLiTHOR technology features thin proprietary Gen-1 solid electrolyte, paired with thin lithium metal and high-loading NMC cathodes. This combination enables energy densities of 384 Wh/kg and 1,026 Wh/l at stack level obtained on a different set of cells. Such gravimetric energy values are crucial to enable the electric transition of industry sectors which require light, safe and powerful batteries. The solid-state technology is compatible with commercial cathode components manufactured today in the established Li-ion battery industry. This will enable the rapid industrialisation of the company’s products by leveraging existing Li-ion battery production lines whilst accelerating the transition to solid-state battery technology with minimal cost and in a timely manner.
As a stepping stone to real-scale technology demonstrators, SOLiTHOR has successfully manufactured 3Ah pouch cell prototypes which are currently running through internal performance and safety testing protocols. The short-term plan is to send those prototypes for external validation and testing with industry partners.
Dr Fanny Bardé, CTO SOLiTHOR, said: “This exceptional cyclability result underpins the durability and compatibility of our innovative thin solid electrolyte with both thin lithium metal and conventional cathode components. Research over many decades has sought to reach such cyclability for thin lithium metal battery technologies and we are among the few companies to have demonstrated it in a solid-state configuration. It also proves the dexterity of our team to deliver breakthrough innovations.”
Compared to existing solutions, lithium metal SSBs offer greater energy density and long-term cycling stability. With 384 Wh/kg and ongoing improvements in cycle life, SOLiTHOR is well on track to set new standards in the industry, offering a compelling solution for electrification of the sector.
Huw Hampson-Jones, CEO SOLiTHOR said: “SOLiTHOR is in partnership with both aviation and maritime manufacturers. Aviation and Maritime vessels require high power and high energy to provide the necessary electrification to safely transport aircraft and ships over longer distances. The achievements above demonstrate our capability. One of SOLiTHOR’s long term objectives is to partner with battery manufacturers to mass produce the cells, for both our aviation and maritime clients.”
Image: SOLiTHOR batter development (source: SOLiTHOR)
