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Li-ion batteries, to date the most popular in the worldhave always had a huge security problem; when hit by strong shocks they can catch fire, or even explode. The search for safer alternatives led to the development of solid-state batteriestherefore deprived of the liquid electrolyte which is in fact the risk component.
But it has recently been developed too a drop-in additive to be added to liquid batteries.
The product is called Safire (Safe Impact Resistant Electrolyte) and the production license was granted exclusively to the homonymous start-up byOak Ridge National Laboratorywho summarized it.
The additive is capable of change the chemistry of the electrolyte ensuring that, in the event of an impact, is able to change from liquid to solid state blocking the contacts between the electrodes and preventing the electrolyte from catching fire.
A similar technology is found currently application also in anti-bullet devicesbut Safire sees the main markets for it in electric mobility.
“Safire will transform the automotive industry, particularly as we move towards electric vehicles”said John Lee, co-founder and chief executive officer of the company. Lee and Mike Grubbs, the other cofounder of Safire, are also collaborating with government agencies and industry to develop the technology for eVTOLs, aircraft, e-bikes and other lithium-ion powered equipment.
“The additive is easy to incorporate into existing battery manufacturing processes and offers users a safer, lighter and more effective alternative to conventional battery protection, resulting in higher performance and lower total cost of ownership”Lee added.
The research team behind the Safire was formed in 2014 and was led by Gabriel Veitfather of the additive: “This team had a rheologist, a potter, an electrochemist, mechanics, materials testers – all together they make this technology work.”.
Safire plans to start developing prototypes with strategic partnersalso supported by FedTech’s Startup Studio and Lab Technology Innovation Program, a venture capital firm program dedicated to advancing deep technology.
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