Factorial silent on lithium metal use in EV battery

Lithium use

Two weeks ago, we reported on Karma Automotive, Inc. and Factorial, Inc. announcing the launch of the first solid-state battery production program in the US for passenger vehicles, batteries that will use lithium metal.

Going over a white paper from Factorial line by line failed to adequately address how the volatile metal is kept under control. We also reached out to discuss the issue with them and have not received a response.

So, here’s what we know. From the white paper, Factorial’s advanced quasi-solid-state lithium metal batteries, branded as FEST (Factorial Electrolyte System Technology), combines a lithium-metal anode, quasi-solid electrolyte, and a high-capacity cathode. This proprietary cell design merges the performance and safety advantages of solid-state electrolytes with the manufacturability of conventional lithium-ion batteries.

According to the company, the technology would provide more energy-dense, lighter, safer, and more powerful batteries. Looking at the image to the right, the battery’s safety will rely on the proprietary separator, which is simply not addressed or discussed in the paper.

The semi-solid electrolyte also plays a large role by reducing the risk of thermal runaway.

 

Regardless of whether or not we can get a deeper answer to our concerns, Factorial continues forward with Karma as well as Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Hyundai Motor Co., and Kia Corp.

Follow this link to learn more.

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