High-tech component for lithium-ion batteries

PCC SE: Climate-neutral production of silicon metal in Iceland

Fraunhofer Institute for Solar Energy Systems ISE, Freiburg, Germany: Development of a silicon-carbon composite material for lithium-ion batteries with scale-up to industrial mass production.

The silicon-carbon composite developed by PCC SE and Fraunhofer ISE significantly increases both the energy density and the fast-charging capability of lithium-ion batteries. The new composite material thus enables a substantial increase in battery capacity and, as a result, much longer drives without charging stops in automotive applications.

The composite material is designed as a drop-in solution, allowing graphite to be easily replaced with the new high-end material and thus facilitating its introduction into existing cell production.

Development of an additional application area in battery technology for the silicon metal produced by PCC BakkiSilicon hf. in Iceland. This application area has high demand potential due to the general trend toward CO2-neutral applications (climate protection goals in Germany, the EU, and internationally).

The performance improvements in lithium-ion batteries achieved through the innovation by PCC SE and Fraunhofer ISE are in high demand, particularly for applications in the field of electric mobility, a key application for a climate-neutral economy.

For PCC SE, this partnership represents another step in its strategy to further develop its portfolio of sustainable key solutions that help address global challenges, particularly climate change.

2021:
On December 21, 2021, PCC SE and the Fraunhofer ISE signed agreements for a long-term research and development partnership.

2022:
Founding of the startup PCC Thorion GmbH to develop and market innovative battery components based on nano-silicon powder.