Na-ion batteries represent an attractive alternative to their Li-ion counterparts [1,2]. Faradion Limited, a UK-based startup, has developed this battery technology to a point where its performance characteristics, such as specific energy, rate and cycle life, are competitive with commercial Li-ion cells. In addition, the company has built an extensive patent portfolio [3]. Prototype Na-ion cells are manufactured on existing, commercial Li-ion production lines using readily available equipment and proven battery designs. Cylindrical, prismatic and pouch cells are all under development [4].

In this presentation we will demonstrate the performance characteristics of prototype Na-ion cells constructed using a proprietary layered oxide cathode Na_aNi_(1-x-y-z)Mn_xMg_yTi_zO₂ and a hard carbon anode material [5]. In this configuration the cathode material delivers a reversible specific capacity of over 150 mAh/g and the cell generates an average discharge cell voltage of around 3.2 V. The cell cycles with low polarization and with excellent charge and energy (round-trip) efficiency.

To demonstrate the commercial viability of Na-ion batteries, Faradion has worked with its commercial partners to scale-up its Na-ion cell chemistry to the 40 Wh and 80 Wh pouch cell level. These prototype cells deliver a specific energy of around 140 Wh/kg under full depth-of-discharge conditions and have been incorporated successfully into E-Bike, E-Scooter (>750 Wh) and other demonstrator applications [6,7]. These developments will encourage rapid penetration into new market opportunities.

Further performance, cost and safety characteristics of the Faradion Na-ion cells and batteries will be presented. Detailed 3-electrode cell performance data will also be discussed.

References:

1. J. Barker, M.Y. Saidi and J. Swoyer, Electrochem. Solid-State Chem. 6, A1, 2003.
2. V. Palomares, P. Serras, I. Villaluenga, K. B. Hueso, J. Carretero-Gonzalez and T. Rojo, Energy Environ. Sci. 5, 5884, 2012
3. For example, US Patents US#9761863, US#9608269, US#9917307, US#10050271.
4. A. Bauer, J. Song, S. Vail, W. Pan, J. Barker and Y. Lu, Adv. Energy Materials, 2018, 1702869; doi.org/10.1002/aenm.201702869
5. J. Barker and R.J. Heap, US Patent#9474035. Doped Nickelate Compounds, Filed November 2013
6. J. Barker and C. J. Wright. Presentation at the Advanced Automotive and Stationary/Industrial Battery Conference, AABC, Detroit, Michigan, USA, June 2015.
7. Chemical & Engineering News, July 20, 2015, Vol. 93, Issue 29, pp 18-19.