AnteoTech – Development of silicon anode lithium-ion battery technology 

Summary

Need

AnteoTech has developed an innovative technology that facilitates the use of high silicon anodes in lithium-ion batteries (LiBs). Currently, LiBs use graphite-based anodes. LiB manufacturers have a strong interest in transitioning from graphite to silicon anodes due to the higher energy density that silicon anodes provide, lower material cost and reduced supply chain risk. However, current anode technology is generally limited to a maximum of 5-10% silicon content before cell degradation becomes prohibitive.  

AnteoTech has developed proprietary technology which is able to reduce degradation rates in anodes, and supports the adoption of high silicon content technology.

Action

The Project will involve the procurement and installation of a roll-to-roll (R2R) coating line which will allow AnteoTech to scale-up its current coin cell anode prototypes to pouch cell size, with these pouch cell prototypes to be tested internally (incremental refinement of anode composition) and externally, by potential customers. 

Outcome

The objectives for the Project will be achieved through the following outcomes:  

• accelerated commercialisation of AnteoTech’s silicon anode technology, which will reduce the cost of energy storage;  
• explore licence agreements with partners and customers for access to AnteoTech’s high silicon anode design.  

Additional impact

Once commercialised, AnteoTech’s high-silicon anodes will enable: 

• a 50% reduction in the anode active material costs for LiBs  
• reduced supply chain risks (AnteoTech uses readily available crude silicon with an existing supply chain that exists outside of China) 
• a 25% increase in energy density by volume allowing a smaller footprint for stationary batteries or increased capacity for EV application.