Conamix, founded in 2014 and based in Ithaca, New York, develops innovative lithium-sulfur (Li-S) battery technology aimed at making electric vehicles more accessible to mainstream consumers. The company focuses on creating cost-effective battery solutions that eliminate expensive materials while streamlining supply chains. Their approach combines advanced materials chemistry with sophisticated cell design to overcome traditional limitations of Li-S batteries. By utilizing sulfur, an abundant material that’s a byproduct of oil and gas production, Conamix addresses both cost and sustainability concerns in EV battery manufacturing.
Battery Technology
Conamix’s Li-S battery technology represents a significant advancement in energy storage solutions. Their batteries achieve energy densities exceeding 400Wh/kg, surpassing conventional lithium-ion batteries’ capabilities. This increased energy density translates to extended driving ranges for electric vehicles. The company’s technical innovations span multiple areas, including cathode active design, electrolyte improvements, and water-based processing methods.
The battery architecture features enhanced microstructures that improve power output and longevity while minimizing thermal management requirements. Their design enables rapid charging capabilities, allowing batteries to reach 80% capacity in under 20 minutes. Through advanced cell and system engineering, Conamix has developed high-capacity designs that prevent active material loss, addressing one of the primary challenges in Li-S battery development.
A notable aspect of their technology is the elimination of cobalt and nickel dependencies, which reduces production costs by up to 30% compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. This approach also minimizes supply chain risks associated with these materials, which often face geopolitical and ethical sourcing challenges.
Recent Projects
In recent developments, Conamix has collaborated with EaglePicher Technologies and Ionic Materials on a strategic initiative supported by the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA). This partnership focuses on developing advanced sulfur-based batteries for aerospace, defense, and commercial vehicle applications. The company’s CEO, Charlotte Hamilton, has also participated in discussions about the Inflation Reduction Act’s impact on domestic battery material production, emphasizing the importance of material science innovation for affordable EVs.
Investors
Conamix has secured $16.19 million in funding through its Series A stage. Notable investors include:
- Plug and Play Detroit
- Volta Energy Technologies
- Catalus Capital
- Excell Partners
The company also received support through the Paycheck Protection Program. Volta Energy Technologies’ investment brings valuable technical expertise and connections with Argonne National Laboratory.
Business Details
Location: Ithaca, New York, USA
Website: https://conamix.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/conamix/
