As world provide chain challenges and uncertainty round lithium provides persist, sodium-ion batteries will stay an interesting resolution given the plentiful nature of sodium. Nevertheless, as prices for lithium-ion batteries come down, the long run for sodium-ion batteries could also be unsure. In functions in transport and mobility, the decrease power density of sodium-ion batteries is a problem. However in stationary storage and lengthy period functions, the problem of offering sturdy long-lasting options can also current a higher alternative if sodium-ion batteries are capable of ultimately cut back their prices.
Even throughout the class of sodium-ion batteries there are a number of various chemistries and methods to design the cell to attain particular outcomes. Sodium-ion battery producers are utilizing totally different cathode and anode supplies, and a few are growing solid-state designs. For instance, Natron is utilizing Prussian blue supplies for each their anode and cathode and the bigger channels for ions to move via permitting for speedy cost and discharge. That is optimum to be used instances that require quick response and so Natron has been working intently with prospects within the knowledge heart house to assist particular power storage and energy wants.
Peak Power is selecting a unique strategy. Their NFPP (Na₃(Fe₂PO₄)₃) design is being optimized for stationary wants on the grid scale. Basically what LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) is to lithium-ion, NFPP could be to sodium-ion. NFPP provides higher provide chains for the parts, a possible to construct out home manufacturing, and enhanced security and reliability. Nevertheless, power density once more could also be an element right here so reducing down prices for sodium-ion batteries could be important.
Comparability With Lithium-Iron-Phosphate
As extra developments are made on the sodium-ion aspect, so too are developments in different battery chemistries, notably lithium-iron-phosphate batteries. Bedrock Supplies, after doing an in depth financial evaluation, got here to the conclusion that sodium-ion batteries wouldn’t be price aggressive towards lithium-iron-phosphate chemistries, and determined to return nearly all of the $9M raised in its seed spherical again to buyers.
One of many vital conclusions described was that, in accordance with a Bedrock Supplies evaluation, even utilizing optimistic predictions, sodium cathode supplies wouldn’t be aggressive with LFP graphite cell prices, “Except the worth of lithium carbonate is above $44k/g — removed from right this moment’s lithium worth of $9.69/kg.” Estimated prices utilizing the present worth of lithium carbonate have NFM and NFPP sodium-ion prices at round $80-$100/kWh for cell stage prices with NMC and LFP lithium-ion prices at $50-$60/kWh (conclusions from CellVision: An Open-Supply Cell Visualization Instrument for Sodium-ion Batteries).
Bedrock Supplies additionally notably was wanting primarily in direction of the electrical car sector the place power density is a vital position. The EV sector additionally had tax credit that had been tied to the IRA, nevertheless, now that the One Massive Stunning Invoice (OBBB) has handed, the clear car tax credit will probably be repealed. Nevertheless, Peak Power’s concentrate on growing battery storage models manufactured within the U.S. utilizing home supplies might profit extra from the OBBB’s concentrate on requiring home content material for clear power tasks and the principles concerning materials help from prohibited overseas entities of concern (FEOC).
Trying Forward
Whereas the market shapes out, sodium-ion battery producers are persevering with to pave the best way researching and growing higher and extra superior cells. CATL and BYD are growing and enhancing their sodium-ion battery fashions in China. Innovators and researchers are exploring methods to enhance gravimetric and volumetric power density, experiment with high-capacity electrode supplies and better voltage electrolytes and enhance cycle life and sturdiness.
Some universities, just like the College of Chicago, are exploring solid-state sodium-ion batteries and Florida State College is leveraging synthetic intelligence and robotic platforms to assist with materials synthesis to develop extra environment friendly cathodes for sodium-ion batteries. Funding additionally has gone into fairly just a few start-ups this yr with Moonwatt, Salztrom, Zoolnasm and Guangde Qinga Applied sciences elevating funds and Unigrid receiving a grant to additional develop their manufacturing facility.
