CIC energiGUNE, the Basque research centre of reference in electrochemical and thermal energy storage and a member of the Basque Research & Technology Alliance BRTA, has begun research work on the European SUBLIME (Solid state sUlfide Based LI-MEtal batteries for EV applications) project, which aims to develop the next generation of solid state battery cells. The work is based on the use of inorganic electrolytes based on sulphides, a material that will increase the reliability, range and fast charge capacity of the electric vehicle battery.
The objective of this project, with the participation of 15 organisations and companies from Europe and with a budget of 7.8 million euros financed in its entirety by the European Framework Programme for Research and Innovation H2020, is to bring together, in a single common project, the entire solid state battery value chain to develop and demonstrate the operation of so-called fourth generation batteries (4b), consisting of a solid electrolyte together with lithium metal, giving rise to a significant increase in the energy density of the battery.
CIC energiGUNE is a key partner in this project as it leads the computational modelling process to predict and optimize the behaviour of the cells that make up the battery, ensuring the best materials are selected very efficiently. Likewise, by virtue of its extensive knowledge of solid electrolytes and state-of-the-art facilities in Europe, the Basque research centre is also leading the task of processing and integrating materials. CIC energiGUNE will also conduct a cost study for this technology to ensure compliance with market demands and, consequently, market entry at competitive prices.
The SUBLIME project, coordinated by the German engineering company FEV, has a 4-year timeframe for execution, with an end date of April 2024. To deliver its objectives, the project proposes the usage of high capacity and high voltage electrode materials to obtain an inherently safe and low-cost battery. The kick-off meeting was held online last Tuesday.
The members of the SUBLIME consortium, composed of 8 companies and 7 research centres, have set themselves the goal of making high-capacity, high-voltage solid-state battery technology available at the pre-commercial manufacturing stage by the completion of the project. In addition, SUBLIME will deliver a roadmap to 2030, enabling eventual market entry through the involvement of highly relevant European partners, and contributing to an effective transition to electromobility.
