HELENA Project: Pioneering Advances in Solid-State Battery Technology

Dew Briefs:

European HELENA project achieves milestone in transforming energy storage for electric aviation.
Project creates first complete cells for solid-state batteries using halide electrolyte.
Significant progress made in improving electrolyte’s electrochemical properties.

Diver Insights :

Halide electrolyte demonstrates high thermal stability for safe battery operation.
Electrolyte’s conductivity allows for high current cycling at lower temperatures.
Protocols established for safe handling and testing, meeting European safety standards.
Advanced recycling concept developed for safe and sustainable battery disposal.
HELENA aims to create safe and efficient solid-state batteries with high energy density and power.
Technology will enhance electric mobility for long distances and quick charging.
Project led by CIC energiGUNE research center, involving 15 European companies.
Consortium includes 14 other entities, such as research institutes and technology companies.

The European HELENA project, focused on transforming the energy storage sector for applications like electric aviation, has reached a significant milestone by assembling the first complete cells for solid-state batteries with halide electrolyte. This achievement was made possible after 20 months of collaborative work by 15 European companies and entities led by CIC energiGUNE. The project is funded by the EU through the Horizon Europe program.

Key advances include establishing high conductivity of the halide electrolyte, enabling cycling at high currents and lower temperatures, and demonstrating the possibility of working with the halide in dry room conditions for industrial applications. The thermal stability of the electrolyte ensures safe and reliable battery operation. The first complete cells of the project feature a lithium metal anode, halide electrolyte, and NMC622 cathode with a charge of up to 4 mAh/cm2.

HELENA has also developed protocols for safe handling and testing of materials and cells, ensuring compliance with European safety standards and regulations. An advanced recycling concept has been created for these batteries, focusing on safety and sustainability. The project aims to develop solid-state batteries with high energy density and power, benefiting electric mobility with improved performance for long distances and fast charging, while reducing manufacturing costs.

The consortium includes CIC energiGUNE and 14 other entities such as AIT-Austrian Institute Of Technology GMBH, Saint Gobain Recherche SA, Umicore SA, and others. The project is on track to achieve its objectives within the set timeframe, offering promising advancements in energy storage technology.

source: Helena Project