Epsilon and Daejoo collaborate to enhance EV battery performance with silicon-graphite composite

Nov 08, 2024

Both companies aim to qualify the jointly developed SiOx-Graphite composite materials with their customers.

Epsilon Advanced Materials (EAM) and Daejoo Electronic Materials (Daejoo) announced a joint development program on November 7, 2024, to create a Silicon-Graphite composite for lithium-ion batteries (LiB). This partnership seeks to improve the discharge capacity and lifespan of LiBs by over 50% using EAM’s Graphite and Daejoo’s Silicon material. The companies aim to achieve a capacity of 450-600 mAh/g, signifying a notable advancement in battery technology.

EAM, a leading global manufacturer of LiB anode and cathode materials, and Daejoo, a top global producer of Silicon Anode Materials for LiB, are collaborating to develop a Graphite-rich composite. Nagase, a Japanese trading company, played a crucial role in establishing the partnership. The joint effort aims to create a Gen-1 Graphite-rich Silicon composite exceeding the performance of existing LiB materials.

The partnership involves EAM supplying synthetic Graphite to Daejoo for creating and evaluating SiOx-Graphite composites. Daejoo will reciprocate by providing samples to EAM for tailoring and testing in their labs. Both companies aim to qualify the jointly developed SiOx-Graphite composite materials with their customers. EAM anticipates completing the first stage of development and evaluation by the end of 2024, followed by material qualification with cell manufacturers.

Vikram Handa, Managing Director of Epsilon Group said, “We are excited to announce our partnership with one of the world's leading producers of Silicon Anode materials to develop revolutionary battery material technology. This collaboration shows our dedication to accelerating India's & global transition to clean energy and sustainable mobility. Through continuous R&D efforts like these, we are committed to pioneering advancements in battery innovation. Upon successful completion of our rigorous in-house evaluation processes, we will be well-equipped to meet the evolving needs of the mobility industry by providing high-performance, safe battery solutions.”

Advancement in lithium-ion battery technology

Silicon-Graphite battery materials represent a significant advancement in lithium-ion battery technology. By combining the high capacity of silicon with the stability of Graphite, these materials offer a superior alternative to traditional Graphite Anodes, meeting the increasing demands for higher performance, longer life, and fast charging in modern battery applications. This makes them particularly well-suited for the evolving needs of the automobile industry and other high power demand sectors.

Dae Woon Park, Managing Director of Daejoo Electronic Materials said, “This partnership marks a significant step forward in our mission to innovate and enhance battery performance. Collaborating with EAM, not only strengthens our presence in the rapidly growing Indian market but also aligns with our global strategy of developing advanced materials tailored to the diverse needs of customers and the market. With EAM, we aim to develop cutting-edge battery materials that will drive sustainable progress and deliver unparalleled value to our customers and stakeholders.”

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