Litona GmbH, established in August 2023 in Karlsruhe, Germany, specializes in producing Prussian White cathodes for sodium-ion batteries. Founded by battery engineer Sebastian Büchele and chemist Tom Bötticher, the company addresses the growing need for sustainable battery solutions. Their innovative approach focuses on replacing traditional lithium-ion technology with sodium-based alternatives, offering a more cost-effective and environmentally conscious solution for energy storage.
The company emerged from Sebastian Büchele’s research at Dalhousie University in 2021/22, where he identified a significant gap in the commercial availability of sodium-ion cathode materials. Through collaboration with the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology (KIT) and the Post Lithium Storage Cluster of Excellence (POLiS), Litona developed its specialized production processes.
Battery Technology
Litona’s primary focus lies in the development and production of Prussian White, a cathode material composed of sodium, iron, and manganese. This material serves as an essential component in sodium-ion batteries, presenting several advantages over conventional lithium-ion systems. The technology offers comparable energy densities to entry-level lithium-ion batteries while providing superior charging capabilities and excellent performance in low-temperature conditions.
The company’s sodium-ion technology addresses critical industry challenges, including resource scarcity and cost considerations. By utilizing abundant raw materials, Litona’s approach reduces dependency on scarce lithium resources and minimizes geopolitical supply risks. The production process results in significantly lower battery cell costs, making sustainable energy storage more accessible.
The technical specifications of their Prussian White cathodes demonstrate strong potential for applications in both electric vehicles and stationary energy storage systems. This versatility, combined with the material’s sustainable characteristics, positions Litona as a significant contributor to advancing battery technology in Europe.
Recent Projects
In early 2024, Litona launched its first production facility in Ulm, Germany, marking a significant expansion of its manufacturing capabilities. The company began commercial sales of its cathode materials to research institutions and industry partners worldwide. In March 2024, Tom Bötticher assumed the role of Co-Managing Director, strengthening the company’s leadership structure.
Investors
While specific investor information remains private, Litona GmbH is actively engaged in discussions with deep-tech investors to support its growth initiatives. The company maintains strong connections with academic institutions, including the Karlsruhe Institute of Technology and Dalhousie University, which contribute to its research and development capabilities.
Business Details
Location: Karlsruhe, Germany
Website: https://litona-batteries.de
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/96620142
