New SOLiTHOR Battery Aims for 850Wh/l Energy Density

SOLiTHOR, a pioneering company based in Belgium, has recently achieved a significant milestone in the development of its first-generation solid-state lithium metal prototype pouch cell. The company announced that the prototype has successfully completed 500 cycles at full charge-discharge, demonstrating less than 7% capacity loss. This achievement marks a major advancement in the field of solid-state battery technology.

The ongoing tests conducted in SOLiTHOR's laboratories have been crucial in evaluating the performance of the pouch cells under various conditions. The tests have been carried out at ambient temperature conditions of 25ᵒC, with an external pressure of 72 psi applied to the cells. These rigorous tests have provided valuable insights into the durability and cycling capabilities of the solid-state battery cells.

Industry standards have set targets for the development phase, aiming for 700 charging cycles with a maximum capacity loss of 20%. SOLiTHOR, a spin-out of imec, is confident that it is on track to meet and even exceed these targets in the near future. The company's commitment to pushing the boundaries of solid-state battery technology is evident in its pursuit of excellence.

In addition to impressive cyclability performances, the solid-state battery cells boast an energy density of 785Wh/L and 318Wh/kg at the stack level. Looking ahead, SOLiTHOR has set its sights on achieving even higher energy densities between 850Wh/L and 900Wh/L for automotive and aerospace battery packs. These advancements hold great promise for the future of electric vehicles and sustainable transportation.

Dr. Fanny Bardé, CTO of SOLiTHOR, emphasized the significance of the recent milestone, stating, "This endurance test is a crucial stepping stone as it proves the durability of our product and the stability of our chemistry at ambient temperature, bringing long-range electric vehicles closer to consumer requirements." The company's dedication to innovation and excellence is driving the development of cutting-edge battery technology.

Huw Hampson-Jones, CEO of SOLiTHOR, highlighted the strategic importance of the company's collaboration with aircraft manufacturers and naval architects in advancing solid-state lithium metal cell technology. Hampson-Jones stated, "The collaboration with aircraft manufacturers and naval architects is providing the impetus behind these results, and provides the confidence to our clients for key performance targets in the coming two years." SOLiTHOR's commitment to collaboration and innovation is propelling the electrification of transportation.

Established in 2022 to commercialize research into solid-state composite electrolytes from imec, SOLiTHOR has rapidly grown to have over 40 employees by the end of 2024. The company's dedication to pushing the boundaries of battery technology and its focus on sustainability are driving forces behind its success. With a clear vision for the future, SOLiTHOR is poised to revolutionize the electromobility sector and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

For more information about SOLiTHOR and its groundbreaking solid-state battery technology, visit www.solithor.com.