With the participation of CIDETEC Energy Storage, the prototypes obtained will make Europe a benchmark in the manufacture of this type of batteries.

The European project IMAGE (Innovative Manufacturing Routes for Next Generation Batteries in Europe, GA 769929) aims to develop the technology to manufacture solid-state batteries in Europe to replace the current liquid-electrolyte-based lithium-ion batteries.

The initiative focuses on lithium as an anode, combining it with solid concepts and studying its assembly and manufacturing possibilities to achieve a competitive battery industry at European level. The prototypes obtained are expected to pave the way to lower costs and achieve an increase in specific energy of more than 300 Wh/kg.

CIDETEC Energy Storage has developed a formulation and manufactured the NMC622 cathode electrode from aqueous inks, UMICORE active material and ARKEMA binder. The centre has also carried out the addition of electrolyte additives in collaboration with Hydro Quebec and the adjustment of the gelation process in situ, as well as the scale up to the manufacture of pouch cells, obtaining prototypes with lithium from Hydro Quebec and polymer electrolyte from ARKEMA. These developments were subsequently tested by partners AVL, BMW and VARTA Storage.

The project, set within the Horizon 2020 initiative and launched in November 2017, ends after four years and a budget of almost € 5 million. Coordinated by AVL, in addition to CIDETEC Energy Storage, the following have also participated: VUB, BMW Group, VARTA Microbattery, UMICORE, ARKEMA France, Hydro-Quebec, CIC energiGUNE, RWTH Aachen, TU Graz, VARTA Storage and MANZ Italy.