Forge Nano Inc. is a materials science company based in Thornton, Colorado, specializing in Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) technology. The company has developed a distinctive surface engineering platform called Atomic Armor, which enhances materials at the atomic level. Since its founding in 2011 by Paul Lichty, Forge Nano has focused on improving product performance across various industries, including batteries, semiconductors, and pharmaceuticals. The company’s technology enables the creation of more efficient, durable, and sustainable products through precision nano-coating processes. With annual revenue of $12.5 million and approximately 103 employees, Forge Nano continues to expand its influence in material enhancement technologies.
Battery Technology
Forge Nano’s Atomic Armor technology represents a significant advancement in battery material enhancement. This proprietary process applies ultra-thin, uniform coatings at the atomic scale to improve various aspects of battery performance. The technology specifically enhances the characteristics of lithium-ion batteries by increasing energy density, extending cycle life, and improving safety features.
The company’s subsidiary, Forge Battery, is developing high-energy lithium-ion cells with an impressive energy density of 300 Wh/kg. These advanced cells are specifically designed for demanding applications in defense, aerospace, and specialized electric vehicles. Through a collaboration with General Motors, Forge Nano is also working on enhancing cathode active materials, which aims to improve the overall performance and longevity of electric vehicle batteries.
The manufacturing process utilizes high-throughput ALD equipment, making particle coating commercially viable on a large scale. This scalability allows Forge Nano to serve both research and commercial production needs while maintaining precise control over coating thickness and uniformity.
Recent Projects
In early 2024, Forge Nano secured a $10 million investment from GM Ventures to enhance battery materials for future electric vehicles. The company’s subsidiary, Forge Battery, has finalized a $100 million contract with the U.S. Department of Energy to support the expansion of its North Carolina lithium-ion battery gigafactory to 3 GWh/year. Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2025, with production starting in 2026. This facility will focus on producing high-performance lithium-ion cells using Atomic Armor technology.
Investors
Forge Nano has attracted substantial investment from notable companies and venture capital firms. Recent investors include Hanwha Corporate Venture Capital, Orion Infrastructure Capital, Catalus Capital, and Ascent Funds through their Series C funding round. The company has also received strategic investments from major industry players including GM Ventures, Volkswagen, Mitsui Kinzoku, LG Technology Ventures, Sumitomo Corporation of Americas, Air Liquide, and SBI Investment. Total funding to date exceeds $100 million.
Business Details
Location: Thornton, Colorado, USA
Website: https://forgenano.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/forge-nano/
