Elcora states that its expertise in graphene and lithium-ion battery technology will assist in this project, and that it is presently working with strategic partners (as well as in its in-house Lithium-Ion R&D Battery Lab) in development of applications.
Elcora may improve Lithium-ion battery performance by optimizing thermal and electrical conductivity of the electrodes. Battery electrodes use carbon black as a conductivity promoter. The carbon black used in traditional electrodes may be replaced/supplemented with graphene produced using Elcora's environmentally friendly processing techniques. The highly conductive graphene should influence charge transfer kinetics, allowing for faster charging times compared to conventional electrode formulations.
Unlike carbon black, high-quality graphene has a relatively short shelf life (weeks if not days) and requires understanding of proper dispersion techniques. Elcora can produce its own graphene, that can be used in electrode formulation experiments immediately after fabrication. According to Elcora, this synergy ensures that the graphene is of the highest quality before being infused into the battery electrode. Elcora's goal is to develop proprietary battery technology that can store more capacity and deliver more power at lower cost.
Commented CEO Troy Grant, "We believe Elcora's production of both graphene and anode powder along with our expertise and strategic relationships with third parties is a perfect fit to our end goal of addressing the energy storage market."