SOLiTHOR has made advancements in the development of its lithium solid-state batteries, which are designed to help the aviation and maritime industries accelerate their electric transition.

The latest advancements include improvements in cyclability, energy density and readiness for industrialization.

Recent testing of SOLiTHOR’s pouch cells, conducted at a moderate temperature of 25° C and with external pressure below 72 psi/4.9 atm, has resulted in 1,000 full charge discharge cycles with a coulombic efficiency above 99.2 %. The testing measured endurance, which is a key performance requirement for long-lasting aviation and maritime applications.

The company’s thin Gen-1 solid electrolyte combined with thin lithium metal and high-loading nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) cathodes enables specific energy of 384 Wh/kg and energy density of 1,026 Wh/l at stack level obtained on a different set of cells. These gravimetric energy values are significant for the aviation and maritime sectors, which require lighter, safer and more powerful batteries.

Relative discharge capacity as a function of number of full cycles for a representative Lithium metal-solid state pouch cell based on NMC / Gen 1 Solid Electrolyte / Li metal components

SOLiTHOR’s solid-state technology is fully compatible with commercial cathode components manufactured in the lithium-ion battery industry. This will enable the rapid industrialization of its products in the coming years by leveraging lithium-ion battery production lines at low cost, according to the company.

SOLiTHOR has manufactured 3 Ah pouch cell prototypes, which it is running through its internal performance and safety testing protocols. Its short-term plan is to send those prototypes for external validation and testing at 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. 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,” said Huw Hampson-Jones, the company’s CEO.

Source: SOLiTHOR