BASF and Group14 Technologies have introduced a commercially viable silicon anode solution designed to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries. This collaboration leverages BASF’s Licity® 2698 X F binder and Group14’s advanced silicon material, SCC55®, to create an anode that offers approximately four times the capacity of traditional graphite-based counterparts.
The newly developed solution is engineered to be a drop-in replacement for existing graphite anodes, significantly improving battery performance. Batteries utilizing this silicon-dominant anode exhibit faster charging times, increased energy density, and enhanced durability even under demanding conditions. In standard room temperature tests, these cells have demonstrated the ability to maintain over 80% of their capacity for more than 1,000 charge cycles. Additionally, at elevated temperatures of 113°F (45°C), the cells have sustained over 500 cycles while still delivering nearly quadruple the capacity of graphite anodes.
“The future of energy storage powered by silicon batteries is here, and our collaboration with BASF is driving mainstream adoption at unprecedented speed,” said Rick Luebbe, CEO and Co-Founder of Group14 Technologies. “By combining technologies, we are giving battery manufacturers the power to deliver high-performance, scalable silicon batteries faster than ever to help meet today’s soaring energy needs.”
BASF’s Licity® 2698 X F binder, specifically designed for silicon-rich anodes, plays a crucial role in stabilizing the electrode structure under the most challenging conditions. The partnership enhances BASF’s binder technology with Group14’s SCC55®, ensuring a robust cycle life and significant performance improvements.
“Silicon is now an attractive technology without the limitations of the past,” said Dr. Dirk Wulff, Global Technical Battery Binder Manager at BASF. “By combining our expertise, we achieved an anode cell chemistry that not only meets but exceeds industry requirements.”
“Strong and capable lithium batteries are crucial for electric mobility’s mass adoption. Our BASF dispersions business provides Licity binders that push this technology further.” added Prof. Dr. Thomas Schiele, Vice President in charge of BASF’s battery binder business in EMEA.
This collaboration underscores the ongoing efforts to innovate within the battery industry, aiming to meet the increasing demands for higher energy density and longer-lasting batteries essential for various applications, including electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
Source: Group14 Press Release
