Sigma Lithium - Lithium Anode Battery Technology

Manufacturing advances and miniaturisation are typically focussed upon as key enablers for
new technologies, however this has led to a paradoxical state where manufacturing
capabilities exceed our ability to power devices. In this increasingly mobile world, the focus
has shifted to batteries as the key to the realisation of the next generation of autonomous
robotics, computing, utilities, and flight.
In 2010, the Zephyr, an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, (UAV) made by the UK firm QinetiQ
achieved continuous flight for over 2 weeks setting an undefeated global record. After its
success, the team noted that one of the most significant innovations incorporated within their
design was a new, highly efficient battery design with dramatically increased energy density.
This reduced Zephyr’s weight while allowing the plane to store more charge, so that it could
charge by day to fly continuously within the night.
With the next generation of batteries, planes like the Zephyr will be able to fly continuously
for months or years at end serving as readily deployable quasi-satellites which can relay
communications in disaster zones, closely monitor ocean weather for hurricanes, and assist in
search and rescue efforts by offering real-time mapping coverage. These batteries will also be
able to power the next generation of prosthetics by powering more power-intensive,
sophisticated control electronics. These myoelectric and neuroprosthetics will give wearers
greater independence by lasting throughout their day without needing charge while offering
precise control and feedback.
Sigma Lithium (SL) is developing a new electrode which will enable these applications and
more by doubling the energy density of Li-ion batteries. Unlike exotic chemistries, SL’s
advances can be directly integrated with existing cells to boost capacity in a relevant timescale
today.