Summary
- 24M Technologies, a battery developer backed by Volkswagen, has introduced Impervio separator technology to reduce the risk of EV battery fires
- The technology is part of the company’s unique SemiSolid lithium-ion battery cells, which offer benefits like reduced production area and CO2 emissions during battery production
- In partnership with Volkswagen, 24M announced a new approach to battery recycling called Liforever and has been working on advancements in EV battery cell development
- Impervio technology prevents dendrite formation and internal shorts in battery cells, reducing the risk of fires and explosions
- The technology has been demonstrated in real-time tests showing impressive results in preventing overcharging-related fires in EV battery cells, with the potential to enhance overall battery safety in the future.
Article
Volkswagen-backed battery developer 24M Technologies has developed a unique Impervio separator technology that aims to reduce the risk of EV battery fires. The company has shared test data showing the effectiveness of this technology in preventing battery overheating and fires. 24M Technologies, a US-based startup spun out of MIT, has redesigned traditional battery cells using SemiSolid lithium-ion technology, offering benefits such as reduced production area, efficient product recycling, and lower CO2 emissions during battery production. Volkswagen Group invested in 24M Technologies as part of partnerships to advance EV battery cell development and related technologies.
With the financial support from Volkswagen, 24M Technologies introduced a novel approach to EV battery recycling known as Liforever. This approach is integrated into the battery manufacturing process and aims to recycle all active battery materials like lithium iron phosphate (LFP) more efficiently and cost-effectively, avoiding the creation of black mass entirely. In January 2024, the company unveiled the Impervio separator technology as a solution to the growing concern of battery fires in EVs, energy storage systems, and consumer applications. The technology helps prevent dendrite formation and internal shorts that can lead to fires and explosions in battery cells.
24M Technologies recently shared test data showcasing the effectiveness of the Impervio separator technology in preventing EV battery fires. The company explained that overcharging a battery cell can lead to dendrite formation and internal shorts, resulting in a fire or explosion. The Impervio separator controls the cell at the individual electrode level, preventing dendrites from propagating and causing faults. The technology can also prevent thermal runaway by monitoring the cell’s electrochemistry and implementing failsafes in case of a short circuit. A side-by-side performance test of two NMC/graphite cells, one with Impervio technology and one with a conventional separator, showed that the Impervio separator prevented overheating and fire during overcharging.
The video demonstration of the Impervio technology by 24M Technologies shows the potential of this innovative solution in enhancing battery safety for EVs and other applications. The company’s president and CEO emphasized the importance of battery safety for the widespread adoption of EVs, highlighting the need for new innovations like Impervio to prevent battery fires and create opportunities for further battery innovation. EV fires remain a significant concern for OEMs and consumers, making advancements in battery safety crucial for the continued growth of the electric vehicle market.
As 24M Technologies continues to develop and scale its Impervio separator technology, there is excitement about the potential impact it could have on the EV industry. By addressing concerns about battery safety and reducing the risk of fires, this technology could help accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles and remove barriers to their widespread acceptance. The success of Impervio in preventing battery fires and enhancing overall safety could lead to new opportunities for innovation in battery technology and contribute to a more sustainable energy future.
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