The South Korean companies POSCO Future M, Kumho Petrochemical, and BEI have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly develop new battery technology. Their focus will be on an anode-free lithium-metal battery design. According to the companies, this technology will enable higher energy densities and faster charging times.
Eliminating Anode Material to Increase Energy Density
Unlike traditional batteries, the planned battery does not use conventional anode material. The resulting extra space is used to achieve a higher energy density, which is expected to be 30 to 50 percent higher than that of conventional lithium-ion batteries. During charging, lithium ions deposit directly onto a metallic current-collecting foil. This process is also expected to more than double charging speed.
Proposed applications include drones, air mobility, electric vehicles, and robotics, which would benefit most from the increased energy density. Additionally, the technology is said to be compatible with existing production equipment. According to the companies, this will reduce investment costs and process complexity.
Division of Responsibilities within the Partnership
POSCO Future M will contribute its cathode material technology to the collaboration. Kumho Petrochemical will supply conductive carbon nanotubes designed to improve electrical conductivity and battery life. BEI will then handle integrating the technology into finished battery cells and providing production capacity. The collaboration aims to bring the concept all the way to commercialization. No specific timelines were provided.
