Ultra-Thin High Performance Batteries

In order to reduce our CO2 emissions and transition to a more sustainable future, the electrification of various aspects of our lives is crucial. This includes the need to store renewable wind and solar energy efficiently. One key component in achieving this goal is the development of batteries that are not only efficient but also recyclable and sustainable. The demand for batteries is rapidly increasing, leading to a higher consumption of raw materials like lithium. Recognizing this challenge, ETH spin-offs BTRY and 8inks are at the forefront of developing innovative battery technologies for the future.

Traditional lithium-ion batteries, commonly found in smartphones and notebooks, contain a liquid electrolyte that makes them sensitive to temperature changes. This sensitivity can lead to safety concerns, especially in terms of flammability at high temperatures. Additionally, these batteries often have longer recharge times. To address these issues, Moritz Futscher and Abdessalem Aribia from BTRY have engineered a solid-state battery composed of thin layers that significantly reduce charging times. By eliminating liquids from both the manufacturing process and battery components, the solid-state batteries offer enhanced stability against temperature fluctuations.

The manufacturing process of BTRY's solid-state batteries involves a unique coating technique originally used in semiconductor production. Thin battery cells are stacked on top of each other in a vacuum, resulting in a finished product that can be recharged in approximately one minute. Moreover, the battery's structure promises a lifespan about ten times longer than conventional batteries. The thin coats used in production make the final battery product thinner than a hair. Futscher envisions scaling up production to establish a global presence in the battery market, with applications ranging from IoT sensors to space operations.

On the other hand, ETH spin-off 8inks is revolutionizing battery production with its innovative "multilayer curtain coating" technology. This approach aims to replace the traditional slot die technique that has dominated lithium-ion battery manufacturing for the past three decades. Founder Paul Baade's method involves applying multiple thin layers of the active material storing lithium ions, allowing for customization based on specific requirements. The flexibility in layer thickness and material properties supports the scaling of solid-state batteries and accelerates the coating speed of battery electrodes to meet the growing demand.

By pushing the boundaries of battery technology, BTRY and 8inks are paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient energy storage solution. With a focus on recyclability, sustainability, and performance, these innovative approaches offer promising alternatives to traditional lithium-ion batteries. As the world transitions towards a greener future, advancements in battery technology play a crucial role in enabling the widespread adoption of renewable energy sources and reducing our carbon footprint.