Li-S Energy announced the completion of the development of a 20-layer battery cell that uses its third-generation (GEN3) semi-solid state lithium sulphur technology.
According to the company, the cells are built using a low-flammable electrolyte, which is expected to make them safer than traditional lithium sulphur and lithium-ion cells that use a higher flammable electrolyte.
The cell also uses the company’s patented Li-nanomesh technology and Boron Nitride Nanotubes (BNNTs) to reduce dendrite growth and further improve the cell’s safety and life cycle.
The cells were produced at the company’s semi-automated Phase 2 facility in Geelong, Victoria, with test cell production capacity anticipated later in the year when Li-S’ Phase 3 facility is completed.
Compared to the GEN2 version of the battery, the GEN3 version significantly improves volumetric energy density due to a lower porosity cathode material.
Additionally, the new battery has a higher gravimetric energy density because of the company’s optimised cathode material composition.
The upgraded battery offers the potential to reduce the physical size of the battery packs needed for the same energy stored or significantly increase the energy stored in a given space compared to GEN2 lithium sulphur cells.
According to the company, the upgrades mean that its cells are now the same size as existing batteries but at half their weight.
“The development of these new battery cells is another validation of the strength of our scientific and technical teams and our collaboration with Deakin University and other Australian and international institutions,” Li-S CEO Lee Finniear said.
“This outcome demonstrates the strength of our progress over the last year. In the coming months we look forward to commencing the production of commercial samples for our partners,” he added.
The company’s development team is currently working to develop the cell cycle testing and characterisation results to produce an industry-standard datasheet on the new 20-layer cells.
