The startup develops solid-state batteries utilizing a unique design of two sponges surrounding a thin ceramic separator, employing low-cost, non-flammable materials. These batteries provide energy density and safety for consumer electronics and electric vehicles, meeting the stringent requirements of the defense and aerospace sectors for reliable performance in diverse environments.
Funding
$63M raised to dateRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
LCFounders
Product
Problem
Current battery technology struggles to balance energy density, safety, and cost-effectiveness, particularly for applications requiring reliable performance in extreme conditions. Traditional lithium-ion batteries often rely on flammable electrolytes and complex systems to manage thermal runaway and prevent dendrite formation, adding to system overhead and cost.
Solution
Ion Storage Systems (ION) develops intrinsically safe solid-state batteries using a unique architecture featuring two porous ceramic structures surrounding a thin, dense ceramic separator. This design enables the use of a lithium metal anode without external compression, fire barriers, or swelling allowances. ION's solid-state batteries offer high energy density, fast charging capabilities, and wide operating temperature ranges while simplifying product integration and reducing overall system costs. The batteries are compatible with various cathode materials, including next-generation options like high-voltage, sulfur, and air cathodes.
Target Audience
ION's primary customers include manufacturers of consumer electronics, electric vehicles, and grid storage solutions, as well as defense and aerospace companies seeking safe, reliable, and high-performance battery solutions.
Features
- Nonflammable ceramic structure with a dense separator layer to prevent dendrite growth and self-discharge
- Lithium metal anode infiltrated in a porous ceramic framework for high energy density and power
- Cathode-agnostic architecture compatible with existing and next-generation cathode materials
- Simplified product integration with no volume expansion or external compression requirements
- Achieves ARPA-E and DOE VTO fast-charge goals for Li-cycling current density at room temperature
- Wide operating temperature range without the need for cooling systems
- Potential for reuse/recycling at end-of-life