Innovative battery technology from Berlin

Berlin-based researchers have developed an innovative new battery technology that is set to transform the industry. Lithium-sulfur batteries are on the rise, attracting increasing interest from researchers and industry professionals alike as a promising alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries. One of the most significant challenges associated with lithium metal foil anode batteries is the formation of dendrites during rapid charging and discharging. Dendrites are needle-like crystal structures that can form in lithium metal batteries during the charging and discharging process, representing a significant safety risk. The formation of these structures presents a significant safety risk, as they can penetrate the separating layer between the anode and cathode, causing a short circuit. Such occurrences can result in overheating, fires, or explosions. Furthermore, dendrites reduce the capacity and lifespan of the battery.

As part of its ongoing development of lithium-sulfur batteries, the Berlin-Adlershof-based battery company theion has created a polymer structure with special coatings to replace current anode materials such as graphite, silicon, or lithium metal. This development has enabled the new anode to successfully undergo more than 2,000 charge and discharge cycles, indicating its long-term stability and safety.

Innovative Solutions for Dendrite Safety

The development of a long-lasting, lightweight anode is a critical prerequisite for the advancement of lithium-sulfur batteries. These batteries offer three times the energy density at only one-third of the cost compared to today's conventional lithium-ion 

"Our new anode design represents a significant achievement for Theion and the wider industry," states Dr. Ulrich Ehmes, CEO of Theion. "Our anode structure, which has been optimized and tested over several thousand cycles, has successfully addressed the dendrite and fast charging issues associated with lithium metal foils. This is a crucial component for our high-performance lithium-sulfur cell.

Aviation applications: electric propulsion for eVTOLs and propeller aircraft

"Our breakthrough in lightweight and fast-charging battery chemistry makes lithium-sulfur batteries ideal for electric propulsion in aviation, such as eVTOLs and traditional propeller aircraft," adds Marek Slavik, co-founder of theion. "The key differentiating factor between sulfur and existing LFP, NMC, or other transfer metal-based cathodes is that sulfur, as a multi-stage redox conversion cathode, is capable of mobilizing 16 electrons, whereas an LFP cathode, for instance, can only mobilize one electron. Ultimately, the energy density of 16 electrons compared to one electron is what enables electric cars to move forward and electric airplanes to fly.

These developments are also of great importance for the Airport Region Berlin Brandenburg, as electric aircraft could represent a sustainable alternative to conventional combustion engines. Theion's technology has the potential to revolutionize the aviation industry in the region and pave the way for electric flight.

Growth of the battery industry in Brandenburg

Furthermore, the battery industry in Brandenburg has experienced significant growth in recent years. Since Tesla's decision in 2019, companies along the entire value chain of battery technology have settled in the region. As many as 33 companies with a total of around 9,300 jobs are already active in the battery value chain. These include RockTech in Guben, BASF's cathode material production in Schwarzheide, SVolt's planned battery cell plant in Lauchhammer and Microvast's final assembly in Ludwigsfelde. Further investments with a total of around 3,500 jobs are in preparation or under construction. Together with nine research institutions closely linked to battery technology, these companies and institutions are creating a solid foundation for Brandenburg to take a leading role in the German battery industry and to assert itself internationally.

Innovation on board

The transportation, mobility and logistics cluster in the German capital region of Berlin-Brandenburg is characterized by a high level of innovation and sophisticated technologies. With its concept of intelligent networking of the various modes of transportation, the region is focusing on economical and environmentally friendly solutions. Berlin and Brandenburg are the largest practical laboratory for electromobility in Germany.

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Source: Press release Theion/Press portal “Battery company theion has the solution for ultra-fast charging and safe battery anodes - validated by an independent institute”, May 17, 2024, press release WFBB “Study: Brandenburg to become center for battery industry”; the article was created with the help of ChatGPT.