Enovix successfully raised $45 million to mass produce 3D silicon lithium-ion batteries

(Image source: Enovix official website)

According to foreign media reports, Enovix has successfully raised $45 million to produce 3D silicon lithium-ion batteries and promote their commercialization.

The new lithium-ion battery developed by Enovix uses a patented 3D cell structure combined with a 100% active silicon anode to improve energy density and cycle life. In addition, Enovix uses proprietary laser patterning and high-speed stacking tools to replace the electrode winding process in the standard lithium-ion battery production process, thereby increasing production line capacity by 30%.

The patented 3D cell structure stacks high-capacity silicon negative electrodes, anodes and separators vertically on an inherently planar structure. Unlike the horizontally wound structure of traditional lithium-ion batteries, in the 3D structure, stacking pressure is applied by integrating stainless steel constraints to keep the silicon particles connected for uniform discharge. The result is a significant increase in energy density and cycle life.

Enovix will use most of the funds to build a high-capacity battery factory, about 75% of which is the same as the equipment and processes used in standard soft-pack lithium-ion battery production. The factory is expected to achieve mass production by the end of the year and reach an annual production capacity of 8 million units in 2021 and 2022.

This type of 3D silicon lithium-ion battery technology has been successfully applied to portable electronic devices. Currently, Enovix is ​​working with leading international automakers to develop patented battery technology for the electric vehicle market. Initial studies have shown that the battery's weight energy density is greater than 340 Wh/kg, and the cost is equivalent to or lower than current industry forecasts. It is expected to be supplied to the electric vehicle market within 5 years.