19th April 2023 "Condensed battery" could power aircraft Contemporary Amperex Technology Co., Limited (CATL) has today launched a new "condensed battery" with up to 500 Wh/kg. This ultra-high energy density could enable the electrification of passenger aircraft.
Founded in 2011, CATL has grown to become the world's largest producer of lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, with a market share of nearly 35%. It has formed partnerships with many foreign automakers including BMW, Daimler, Tesla, and Volkswagen. Today, at the Auto Shanghai exhibition, CATL has launched a new cutting-edge battery technology, offering both high energy density and safety, which the company says can achieve mass production in a short time. The energy per unit mass of 500 Wh/kg is around twice that of typical Li-ion batteries. In addition to doubling the range of EVs, this could enable longer-haul electrified aviation, reducing air pollution.
To address changes in the materials resulting from electrochemical reactions, CATL's new battery uses what the company describes as "highly conductive biomimetic condensed state electrolytes" to construct a micron-level "self-adaptive net structure". This can adjust the interactive forces among the chains, improving the conductive performance of the cells, and in turn, the efficiency of Li-ion transport, while boosting stability of the microstructure. The semi-solid state battery integrates a range of innovative technologies – including ultra-high energy density cathode materials, new anode materials, separators, and manufacturing processes, offering excellent charge and discharge performance, as well as good safety. According to CATL, the launch of this cutting-edge technology "breaks the limits that have long restricted the development of the battery sector and will open up a new scenario of electrification centring on high level of safety and light weight."
CATL is already cooperating with partners in the development of electric passenger aircrafts, practicing aviation-level standards and testing in accordance with aviation-grade safety and quality requirements. In addition, the company will launch an automotive-grade version of condensed batteries, which are expected to go into mass production by the end of 2023. "Meeting customers' requirements is the core driving force that drives technological innovation for CATL," said Wu Kai, Chief Scientist. As electrification extends from land to the sky, aircraft may soon become cleaner and smarter. The launch of condensed batteries could usher in an era of universal electrification in transportation, opening up more possibilities for development of the industry, and helping achieve global carbon neutrality goals.
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