Stratus Materials Inc. is a U.S.-based developer and manufacturer of advanced cathode active materials (CAMs) for lithium-ion batteries. Founded in 2022 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the company creates manganese-rich, cobalt-free cathode materials that enhance performance, safety, and environmental sustainability in energy storage applications. Their materials are specifically designed for electric vehicles (EVs) and similar applications, offering improved energy density and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional cathode materials. The company’s innovative approach to battery component manufacturing positions them as an essential supplier in the growing EV industry.
Battery Technology
Stratus Materials specializes in developing proprietary manganese-rich cathode materials that address traditional challenges in lithium-ion battery production. Their LXMO cathode class represents a significant advancement in battery material science, demonstrating exceptional durability by maintaining over 80% of initial capacity after 1,000 full depth-of-discharge cycles.
The company’s technology focuses on eliminating cobalt from cathode materials while maintaining high performance standards. This approach not only reduces production costs but also minimizes environmental impact and dependency on scarce resources. Their manufacturing process incorporates specific formulations that overcome historical stability and cycling issues associated with manganese-rich cathodes.
Through continuous research and development, Stratus Materials has created cathode materials that deliver superior energy density and safety characteristics. These materials are particularly well-suited for light- to medium-duty electric vehicles, where performance and reliability are essential requirements. The company maintains both laboratory-scale and pilot-scale production facilities, ensuring consistent quality and enabling rapid technological improvements.
Recent Projects
In recent developments, Stratus Materials secured nearly $3 million in funding from the Department of Energy to develop PhosCAM, an advanced high-energy-density composite cathode material. The company is also expanding its production capabilities with a new pilot line, expected to reach 30 tons per year capacity by mid-2024. Their LXMO materials are currently being tested by potential customers in the EV industry, with positive validation results supporting their performance claims.
Investors
Stratus Materials successfully completed a $12 million Series A financing round, with Breakthrough Energy Ventures, founded by Bill Gates, leading the investment. DNS Capital, representing the business interests of Gigi Pritzker, Michael Pucker, and their family, participated as a co-investor. The U.S. Department of Energy has also provided grant funding to support the company’s innovative research and development initiatives.
Business Details
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
Website: https://stratusmaterials.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/92915044
