Lithium, which is the lightest and most electronegative metal in the periodic table, is a natural choice as anode.
However, because lithium metal is highly reactive it was sidelined during much of the 1990s and 2000s and replaced with Li-ion batteries that do not contain lithium metal. With recent advances in electrolyte, lithium metal is making a strong comeback.
SolidEnergy was founded in 2012 during the turmoil of the lithium-battery industry crisis to introduce transformational changes in battery safety, energy density and a new business model.
SolidEnergy is developing a renaissance technology, electrolyte and anode materials for safe and ultra-high-energydensity Li-Metal batteries.
And because the Li-Metal batteries enabled by its materials can be manufactured using existing Li-ion manufacturing facilities, the company is also developing a renaissance business model by building an open ecosystem, strategically partnering with established companies to accelerate the commercialization of disruptive technologies in the battery industry.
SolidEnergy’s mission is to power people’s lives, whether they are communicating with loved ones on a phone or driving with their family in an electric car.
Li-ion can no longer satisfy our insatiable thirst for higher energy density, and even with the best engineering it is approaching its theoretical limit.
If we refuse to let battery technology limit our desire for smarter devices and cleaner transportation, we must focus on the next practical solution, Li-Metal.
Although challenges to Li-Metal remain daunting, the current renaissance in technology and new business model give us confidence that Li-Metal will soon reclaim its rightful spot in the industry.