Solid-State Batteries European initiative for the industrialization of solid electrolytes

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To become more independent from batteries from Asia, Europe needs more expertise in battery technology. However, lithium-ion batteries are no longer in demand. Perhaps solid-state batteries from European production will soon follow.

With the founding of Argylium, Syensqo (Belgium) and Axens (France) are combining their expertise to address a key bottleneck in battery technology: the industrial scaling of advanced solid electrolyte materials for solid-state batteries. The new company aims to transition sulfide-based solid electrolytes from the pilot stage to market-ready production – a crucial step for the next generation of energy storage in Europe.

Solid-state batteries as a key technology

Solid-state batteries are considered one of the most promising advancements of today's lithium-ion systems. Replacing liquid electrolytes with solid materials offers several advantages. On the one hand, significantly higher safety as flammable liquids are eliminated. On the other hand, higher energy density as well as the potential for faster charging cycles.

Despite intensive research, widespread industrial use has often failed due to the complexity of the materials and the lack of scalability of production processes. Often with sulfide-based solid electrolytes, which offer high ionic conductivity but are demanding in manufacturing and processing.

Building on pilot projects and years of research

Argylium builds directly on the groundwork laid by Syensqo. The company has been operating a pilot plant for solid-state batteries in La Rochelle, France, for several years and can draw on over a decade of research and material development at its laboratory in Aubervilliers near Paris. This technological foundation is now set to be specifically developed further towards industrial demonstration plants. The focus is on accelerating the industrialization of sulfide solid electrolytes for so-called All-Solid-State Batteries (ASSB). The goal is to establish reproducible, scalable processes that enable the transition from laboratory and pilot quantities to industrial production volumes.

In addition to Syensqo, Axens contributes its extensive experience in process development and industrial scale-up. The company has over 50 years of experience in the construction and operation of chemical industrial plants and is internationally established, particularly in inorganic chemistry. The consortium is complemented by the French research institute IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPEN), which brings in-depth expertise in inorganic chemistry as well as in the processing of oxide and sulfide powder materials.

Contribution to the European battery strategy

Argylium positions itself clearly within the context of the European battery and electrification strategy. Through close collaboration with research institutes, automotive manufacturers, battery producers, and energy technology partners, the company aims to contribute to building a competitive, sustainable value chain for solid-state batteries in Europe.

In the long term, the project aims to establish the prerequisites for commercial production of solid electrolytes by around 2030, thereby reducing Europe's dependence on non-European battery technologies. (mr)