SOLiTHOR

Cell & Pack Manufacturing

SOLiTHOR, a 2021 imec spin-off in Sint-Truiden, Belgium, develops advanced solid-state lithium batteries using proprietary nano-SCE technology. Targeting aviation, urban air mobility, and aerospace, their batteries offer superior energy density, enhanced safety, and sustainable manufacturing for next-generation electromobility solutions.

Share This Post

SOLiTHOR, established in 2021 as a spin-off from imec, develops and commercializes safe, clean, and environmentally responsible solid-state lithium battery technology. The company emerged from imec’s extensive research in nanoelectronics and digital technologies, bringing innovative battery solutions to the electromobility sector. Based in Sint-Truiden, Belgium, SOLiTHOR concentrates on applications in aviation, urban air mobility (UAM), and aerospace industries.

The company’s mission centers on advancing electromobility through next-generation solid-state lithium battery technology. Their solutions aim to exceed traditional lithium-ion batteries in performance, energy density, safety, and manufacturing efficiency while maintaining strict environmental standards.

Battery Technology

SOLiTHOR’s primary innovation lies in its all-solid-state lithium batteries, which utilize a proprietary nano-Solid Composite Electrolyte (nano-SCE) technology. This unique electrolyte composition, neither sulfide, oxide, nor polymer-based, enables superior lithium-ion conductivity without requiring high operating temperatures. The technology delivers energy densities exceeding 384 Wh/kg and 1,026 Wh/l, setting new standards for battery performance.

The company’s solid-state batteries feature enhanced safety characteristics through the elimination of liquid electrolytes, significantly reducing fire risks and thermal runaway concerns. This makes them particularly suitable for aviation and maritime applications, where safety requirements are stringent.

Manufacturing processes incorporate sustainable practices, minimizing solvent usage and reducing CO2 emissions. The batteries demonstrate excellent cycling stability, maintaining over 80% capacity retention after 1000 charging cycles – a significant achievement in solid-state battery development.

Recent Projects

In early 2024, SOLiTHOR appointed Rodrigo Navarro as CEO, bringing nearly two decades of experience in EV battery supply chains. The company received a Cellisafe grant of 1.8 million euros from the Flemish government in January 2024, supporting continued development of their solid-state battery technology.

SOLiTHOR maintains an active partnership with Sonaca to advance electric regional aircraft and urban air mobility solutions, demonstrating practical applications of their battery technology in aviation.