LiCAP releases near-mass production-level solid-state electrode production technology

Overseas media recently reported that LiCAP Technologies has expanded its technology portfolio related to its proprietary activated dry electrode (Activated Dry Electrode), opening up a cost-effective and sustainable path to the commercialization of solid-state batteries.

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) have the potential to be safer, more specific, and more energy-dense than conventional lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). However, the conventional wet coating method used to manufacture LIB electrodes is not compatible with the room-temperature drying process of moisture-sensitive solid electrolyte materials.

LiCAP has successfully applied the Activated Dry Electrode technology to the SSB electrode manufacturing process and produced the first positive electrode electrolyte (catholyte) sample. Since the trial in February 2022, LiCAP has developed several SSB electrode formulations using NMC and sulfur-based electrolyte materials. These materials are processed into independent active layer films and laminated onto aluminum current collectors. At the current stage of development, LiCAP can process SSB electrode samples with an area mass loading between 26-60 mg/cm2 and high electronic conductivity. However, LiCAP's engineering team made it clear that the SSB electrodes it developed can be expanded to large-scale pilot production, close to existing lithium-ion battery and supercapacitor electrode production lines.

“This process will help the solid-state battery industry achieve its performance and cost-effectiveness goals, paving the way for commercialization,” said Dr. Katharina Gerber, LiCAP’s director of business development. “LiCAP’s pilot equipment is already being used for customer SSB material feasibility projects at its facility in Sacramento, California.”