Novacium, a subsidiary of HPQ Silicon Inc., has entered into a strategic collaboration with the French Army’s Technical Section (STAT) to develop high-capacity silicon-based batteries for military applications. The partnership aims to produce prototypes of ultra-high-capacity batteries utilizing Novacium’s advanced silicon-based anode material, which increases battery capacity by over 30%. This significant enhancement is expected to extend the range and endurance of various military equipment, including surveillance systems, electronic sights, anti-drone systems, telecommunications devices, and autonomous vehicles.
The new batteries will be built with high-capacity 18650 cells incorporating Novacium’s silicon-based anode material. By increasing battery capacity, soldiers can reduce the frequency of charging and the number of batteries they need to carry, thereby improving mobility and operational effectiveness in the field.
“We are excited to collaborate with STAT to demonstrate the potential of our silicon-based materials in critical applications such as tactical communications,” said Dr. Jed Kraiem, Chief Operating Officer of Novacium. “This initiative aligns with our vision of delivering sustainable, high-performance solutions to cutting-edge industries.”
The first prototypes are currently in production and are expected to be delivered to STAT before the end of the first quarter of 2025. These prototypes will feature Novacium’s GEN3 cells, or potentially GEN4, and will undergo thorough testing by the French Armed Forces.
“This strategic collaboration with STAT marks an important first step toward the commercialization of our silicon-based anode materials,” said Bernard Tourillon, President and CEO of HPQ Silicon Inc. and Novacium SAS. “It exemplifies how our innovative battery solutions address the growing demand for higher-capacity lithium-ion batteries.”
In a related development, HPQ Silicon Inc. announced that it has acquired full ownership of the patent for high-throughput fabrication of silicon-based anode materials. The company has purchased all rights, titles, and interests held by the inventors in the patent and associated intellectual property. The acquisition was completed through the issuance of 1,009,343 units of the company’s capital stock, valued at $260,000. Each unit consists of one common share and one-half warrant, with each whole warrant granting the holder the right to purchase one common share at $0.315 per share for a period of four years.
“Having full ownership of the patent addresses a key question raised by potential technical and financial partners interested in our silicon-based anode materials,” Mr. Tourillon added.
Novacium is a research and development company based in Lyon, France, specializing in next-generation materials and processes essential to the renewable energy transition. It is a partnership between HPQ Silicon Inc. and three research engineers: Dr. Jed Kraiem, Dr. Oleksiy Nichiporuk, and Dr. Julien Degoulange.
Source: Novacium