US-based Factorial and LG Chem signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to develop solid-state lithium-ion battery cells for next-generation applications.

The pair also announced the potential for licensing and material supply partnerships down the line if initial talks are deemed successful.

Solid-state cells have long been touted as the next generation of lithium-ion battery to unlock greater energy densities and electric vehicle (EV) ranges through the use of silicon, and ultimately, lithium metal anodes. They also have the potential to be safer, lighter and to provide faster charging capabilities than cells using traditional electrolytes. However, manufacturing solid-state cells that achieve the desired performance credentials remains a key hurdle ahead for the industry. Not only is the manufacturing of materials itself a challenge, but solid electrolytes suffer from poorer ionic conductivity and the cells can exhibit poor cycle life when compared with traditional counterparts. Significant work is underway to overcome these challenges, but progress for commercialisation will take time and financial investment.

This partnership therefore represents a positive step forward for both parties, leveraging Factorial’s technology and LG Chem’s extensive experience with lithium-ion battery manufacture to produce reliable cells for the EV market. In addition, as many solid-state batteries often do not use industry-standardised materials, raw material sourcing is seen as a potential bottleneck for scaling up the various technologies. Using LG Chem’s wide manufacturing and material supplier network would therefore aid with cell development and full-scale commercialisation within the US.

Based in Massachusetts, Factorial is developing polymer electrolytes for “quasi” solid-state cells using its Factorial Electrolyte System technology (FEST) for an electrode agnostic solution to next-generation batteries. Such a platform would allow beneficial flexibility when it comes to anode choice, not only to tailor for particular applications, but also for supply chain flexibility as the underlying technologies mature. It is expected that initial solid-state cells will primarily utilise silicon anodes as a way to introduce the solid-state system in a commercial setting. As the technology becomes more established, lithium metal anodes would be the next step towards greater energy densities.