8inks AG is a Swiss startup focused on transforming the battery manufacturing industry by introducing innovative production techniques. Based in Schlieren, Switzerland, this ETH Zurich spin-off was established in 2022, bringing together a team of skilled researchers and industry experts. Recognizing the growing demand for high-performance batteries, particularly in the shift towards electrification, 8inks concentrates on scaling up lithium-ion and solid-state battery production with improved efficiency and sustainability. The company collaborates with multiple partners to create advanced solutions designed to strengthen the global energy storage infrastructure.
Battery Technology
The core technological development from 8inks is its multi-layer coating process for battery electrodes. Borrowing methodologies from industrial sectors such as paper and photographic production, this process revolutionizes conventional single-layer manufacturing. By applying multiple thin layers of active materials during electrode production, the company achieves higher energy density in batteries, enhances overall cell performance, and drives significant cost reductions.
Key features of this methodology include a lower energy footprint, efficient material usage, and production flexibility that accommodates various electrode chemistries, such as silicon anodes, LFP cathodes, and solid electrolytes. Utilizing this approach leads to a 30% reduction in both capital and operating costs, while increasing production speeds by more than two times. The process also minimizes factory floor requirements, reducing space needs by approximately 75%.
The technology is suitable for a broad range of applications that rely on advanced energy storage solutions. These include electric vehicles, grid-scale energy storage, and smaller consumer electronics. Additionally, the multi-layer process is versatile enough for various battery sizes, ranging from small coin cells to large-format packs for automotive and industrial uses. The company supports the production of next-generation solid-state batteries, which are lauded for their potential to deliver greater safety, faster charging, and higher energy efficiency.
Recent Projects
In 2023, 8inks focused on scaling its multi-layer technology to industrial levels. The company secured new collaborations with automotive manufacturers to pilot its electrode coating method for larger-format cells used in electric vehicles. Its proprietary process was also adapted for advanced solid-state battery designs, demonstrating compatibility across varied battery chemistries and applications. Moreover, 8inks worked on integrating its production solutions into platforms designed for grid energy storage systems, adding to its contributions to renewable energy efforts.
Investors
8inks successfully closed a pre-seed funding round to support the development and commercialization of its manufacturing technologies. This funding effort raised nearly three million euros from notable investors, including Founderful and Übermorgen Ventures. Other supporters in this round included Angel Invest, another.vc, and the ETH Foundation. Additionally, organizations such as Innosuisse, Switzerland Innovation, and the Gebert Rüf Foundation also contributed to the company’s growth. These funds have enabled 8inks to transition from a startup to an industrial-scale solution provider, further establishing its role in the energy storage value chain.
Location: Schlieren, Switzerland
Website: https://8inks.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/8inks/
