Swiss battery developer Leclanché SA has introduced the XN50, the world’s first lithium-ion cell featuring niobium-based anode material XNO from Echion Technologies. This innovative cell is specifically designed for heavy-duty applications in rail transport, shipping, and mining. The development was part of a collaboration between Leclanché and Echion Technologies.
Benefits of the XN50 Lithium-Ion Cell: Higher Energy Density and Longer Lifespan
Compared to conventional lithium-titanate-oxide technologies (LTO), the XN50 offers 50% higher energy density. It also boasts an exceptionally long lifecycle of more than 10,000 charge cycles. After 1,000 charge/discharge cycles at 45°C, the cell experiences less than 3% capacity loss, and its resistance increases by less than 15%. According to Leclanché, the XN50 could be a commercially viable solution to replace traditional LTO technologies in energy storage systems.
Environmentally Friendly XN50 Manufacturing
Another key advantage of the XN50 cell is its environmentally friendly production. It uses a water-based cathode formulation that is PFAS-free, resulting in reduced environmental impact.
