Theion Launches Solid State Sulfur Battery Center

German battery company theion has recently inaugurated a cutting-edge Technology Centre in Berlin, signaling the commencement of customer evaluation for its innovative sulfur battery cells. Situated in the science and technology park in Adlershof, the theion centre is dedicated to the development of solid-state sulfur-crystal cathodes. These cathodes are designed to significantly enhance energy density, while simultaneously reducing cell cost and the CO₂ footprint compared to current battery technologies.

The primary focus of theion's technological advancements lies in the electric aircraft sector, particularly targeting eVTOL air taxis. These battery cells boast an impressive energy density of 1000Wh/kg and a lifespan of 1000 cycles, making them ideal for the demanding requirements of electric aviation.

Recent breakthroughs by theion include the successful development of a patented lithium metal anode chemistry. Third-party testing conducted by a leading independent research institute in Germany confirmed the capability of these batteries to endure 2000 charging and discharging cycles. This achievement sets the stage for the production of safe, high-energy-density batteries that support fast-charging capabilities, revolutionizing lightweight and sustainable battery solutions for electric mobility and stationary storage.

Utilizing a groundbreaking technique known as Direct Crystal Imprinting (DCi), the company is able to grow pure sulfur wafers from molten sulfur within seconds. This method eliminates the need for slurry coating, solvents, water, or drying processes. The flexibility of this approach allows for the creation of sulfur wafers in various geometrical shapes, with a preference for a hexagonal shape due to its superior spatial efficiency. The Technology Centre serves as a hub for collaborating with customers to tailor solid-state sulfur battery cells to meet specific requirements.

Ulrich Ehmes, CEO of theion, expressed his enthusiasm about the new facility, stating, “With this state-of-the-art facility, we are now fully operational and ready to welcome customers to experience firsthand our game-changing sulfur crystal battery technology. We look forward to collaborating with industry leaders as we push the boundaries of what’s possible in energy storage.”

The state-of-the-art laboratories within the new tech centre include a fully equipped synthesis lab, glovebox lab, and cycling lab. These facilities enable the semi-automatic assembly of 1 MWh of cells, providing customer samples for evaluation and testing. Dr. Gerhard Cromme, Chairman of theion, emphasized the significance of the Technology Centre, highlighting its role in accelerating the development of transformative battery technology that will shape the future of electric mobility and energy storage.

In recognition of theion's contribution to the battery industry, Franziska Giffey, Berlin's Mayor and Senator for Economic Affairs, Energy, and Enterprises, remarked, “Batteries play a major role in our current and future energy consumption. The opening of theion's Technology Centre in Berlin marks an important milestone for both the city and Germany's position in the global battery industry.”