Group1 Unveils World’s First Potassium-Ion Battery in Cylindrical 18650 Format

Group1, an industry leader in advanced battery technology, has developed the world’s first Potassium-ion battery (KIB) in cylindrical 18650 form. This development looks to be a viable solution for sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective energy storage that doesn’t require the use of critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, copper, and lithium. The KIB technology is designed to integrate smoothly into existing lithium-ion battery (LIB) manufacturing processes so could be widely used almost immediately.

A Milestone in Battery Technology

This new KIB battery was officially introduced at the 14th annual Beyond Lithium Conference at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. At this event, Group1 highlighted the evolution of the KIB from its early stages as a coin-cell to its current 18650 form, explaining the battery’s unique attributes and competitive advantages.

Advanced Materials and Performance

One of the key components of the KIB technology is Group1’s flagship product, Kristonite™, a specially engineered 4V cathode material in the Potassium Prussian White (KPW) class. Kristonite™ enables the KIB to deliver a superior balance of performance, safety, and cost compared to Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4) LIBs and Sodium-ion batteries (NIBs).

“We are excited to introduce the world’s first 18650 Potassium-ion battery. This innovation represents years of dedicated research and product development. By distributing samples to our partners among Tier 1 OEMs and cell manufacturers, we are paving the way for widespread adoption of this transformative technology.”

Alexander Girau, CEO of Group1

Technical Specifications and Advantages

The 18650 form factor is one of the most widely adopted cell formats globally, known for its reliability and compatibility. Group1’s KIBs use commercial graphite anodes, standard separators, and electrolyte formulations made from commercially available components. These batteries boast superior cycle life, excellent discharge capability, and operate at a nominal voltage of 3.7V. This first version of the product is performing better than expected. It has the ability to store a good amount of energy—about 160 to 180 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg). This energy storage level is similar to what you would find in standard lithium iron phosphate (LFP) lithium-ion batteries (LIB), which are common types of batteries used in things like electric vehicles and electronics.

Pros and Cons of the KIB Technology

Pros:

1. Sustainability: KIBs eliminate the need for critical and often environmentally damaging minerals like nickel, cobalt, copper, and lithium.
2. Cost-Effectiveness: With simpler and more abundant materials, KIBs offer a more economical alternative to current battery technologies.
3. Integration: KIBs are designed to fit seamlessly into existing LIB manufacturing processes, reducing the barriers for adoption by battery manufacturers.
4. Performance: The KIBs demonstrate strong cycle life and discharge capabilities, making them suitable for demanding applications.
5. Supply Chain Resilience: By reducing reliance on critical minerals, KIBs can help alleviate supply chain pressures and promote domestic manufacturing.

Cons:

1. Energy Density: While KIBs have competitive energy densities, they are still on par with, rather than exceeding, current LFP-LIBs, which could limit their appeal in applications where maximum energy density is crucial.
2. Market Adoption: As a new technology, KIBs may face hurdles in market adoption, particularly in an industry that is heavily invested in existing LIB technologies.

Group1 & KIB Moving Forward

By offering a sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance alternative to traditional LIBs, KIBs could play a key role in the future of energy storage, particularly as the demand for environmentally friendly and resilient energy solutions continues to grow.

Glossary of Terms

1. Potassium-ion Battery (KIB):
   • A type of rechargeable battery that uses potassium ions to store and release electrical energy. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, KIBs do not rely on critical minerals such as nickel, cobalt, copper, and lithium.
2. 18650 Form Factor:
   • A cylindrical battery size (18 mm in diameter and 65 mm in length) that is widely used in various applications, including laptops, electric vehicles, and power tools. The 18650 form is a standard size for lithium-ion batteries, known for its reliability and widespread adoption.
3. Lithium-ion Battery (LIB):
   • A type of rechargeable battery that is commonly used in portable electronics and electric vehicles. LIBs store energy through the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode during charging and discharging.
4. Potassium Prussian White (KPW):
   • A class of cathode material used in potassium-ion batteries. KPW provides a stable structure for potassium ions to move during the charge and discharge cycles, contributing to the battery’s overall performance.
5. Kristonite™:
   • A proprietary 4V cathode material developed by Group1 for use in potassium-ion batteries. Kristonite™ enhances the battery’s balance of performance, safety, and cost compared to other battery technologies.
6. Lithium Iron Phosphate (LiFePO4 or LFP):
   • A type of lithium-ion battery known for its safety, long cycle life, and stable chemical composition. LFP batteries are commonly used in electric vehicles and energy storage systems.
7. Sodium-ion Batteries (NIBs):
   • A type of rechargeable battery that uses sodium ions to store and release energy. NIBs are an alternative to lithium-ion batteries and are considered for applications where cost and availability of materials are critical factors.
8. Cycle Life:
   • The number of complete charge and discharge cycles a battery can undergo before its capacity falls below a certain percentage of its original capacity. A higher cycle life indicates a longer-lasting battery.
9. Discharge Capability:
   • The ability of a battery to release stored energy over a period of time. Batteries with strong discharge capabilities can deliver energy quickly and efficiently, which is important for high-demand applications.
10. Nominal Voltage:
    • The average voltage at which a battery operates during its discharge cycle. For the KIB, the nominal voltage is 3.7V, which is typical for many lithium-ion batteries as well.
11. Watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg):
    • A measure of energy density in batteries, indicating how much energy a battery can store relative to its weight. Higher Wh/kg values are desirable for applications where weight is a critical factor, such as in electric vehicles.