Alternative battery technologies

In the research field of alternative battery technologies, the use of less scarce and more cost-effective materials is being researched, which do not replace the lithium-ion battery, but are intended to cover application areas with different requirements. For example, in the home energy storage sector, a lower energy density is sufficient, but a longer service life is necessary.

„Our approaches are very diverse and range from 'A', like 'aluminum', to 'Z', like 'zinc'.“

Dr. David Ensling, Manager Advanced Technology VARTA AG

Research projects

Development of a low-cost nickel-zinc double-flux battery for use as a stationary electricity storage system.

The goal is to realize the first demonstration of a rechargeable zinc-manganese battery (ZMB) in neutral to slightly acidic electrolyte with at least 50 charge/discharge cycles in AA format.

The aim of the project is to develop a raw material-optimized, recyclable and rechargeable zinc-air battery for stationary applications.

TransDIB is pursuing the development of a new cell technology that is
based on the concept of the dual-ion battery (DIB). The aim is to transfer this technology to VARTA's industry-related pilot lines.

The goal of the ZIB2 project is to advance the commercialization of aqueous zinc-ion batteries based on Prussian blue analogs. The feasibility of this project will be underlined by the construction of an industrial-scale full cell demonstrator with TRL 5.

In the "VisEl" project, the consortium is focusing on developing visualization of electrolyte movement and electrode expansion of a lithium-ion cell. VARTA expects a better understanding of the filling process and thus more efficient cell production.

Building on the previous project "FeEnergy", the consortium is dedicated to the further development of iron slurry/air storage systems as stationary energy storage systems.

Further research areas

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