Pure Lithium from Boston has reported progress in the development of lithium metal batteries. The company claims its cells have achieved more than 2,200 charge cycles with a one-hour charge-discharge cycle. After testing, the battery is said to retain more than 80 percent of its capacity.
Special anode allows for massive cost reduction
Pure Lithium uses a proprietary lithium metal anode made from inexpensive brine lithium salt. According to the company, this manufacturing process saves up to 90 percent of the cost associated with conventional lithium metal foil production. The anode is combined with a proprietary electrolyte. The company claims that its battery achieves an energy density of more than 400 watt-hours per kilogram and is non-flammable.
No need for critical materials
The cell chemistry completely eliminates materials such as graphite, nickel, cobalt, and manganese. This is expected to not only reduce production costs, but also enable an entirely North American supply chain. As a result, energy independence from international supply chains, particularly from China, could be achieved.
