(Invited) The Scale-up and Commercialization of a High Energy Density Na-Ion Battery Technology

Abstract

Na-ion batteries represent an attractive alternative to their Li-ion counterparts [1,2]. Faradion Limited, a UK-based startup, has developed this battery technology to a point where its performance characteristics, such as specific energy, rate and cycle life, are competitive with commercial Li-ion cells. In addition, the company has built an extensive patent portfolio [3]. Prototype Na-ion cells are manufactured on existing, commercial Li-ion production lines using readily available equipment and proven battery designs. Cylindrical, prismatic and pouch cells are all under development [4]. In this presentation we will demonstrate the performance characteristics of prototype Na-ion cells constructed using a proprietary layered oxide cathode NaaNi(1-x-y-z)MnxMgyTizO2 and a hard carbon anode material [5]. In this configuration the cathode material delivers a reversible specific capacity of over 150 mAh/g and the cell generates an average discharge cell voltage of around 3.2 V. The cell cycles with low polarization and with excellent charge and energy (round-trip) efficiency. To demonstrate the commercial viability of Na-ion batteries, Faradion has worked with its commercial partners to scale-up its Na-ion cell chemistry to the 40 Wh and 80 Wh pouch cell level. These prototype cells deliver a specific energy of around 140 Wh/kg under full depth-of-discharge conditions and have been incorporated successfully into E-Bike, E-Scooter (>750 Wh) and other demonstrator applications [6,7]. These developments will encourage rapid penetration into new market opportunities. Further performance, cost and safety characteristics of the Faradion Na-ion cells and batteries will be presented. Detailed 3-electrode cell performance data will also be discussed.