Fraunhofer IPA patents technology for aluminum-anode batteries

Fraunhofer Institute for Production Technology and Automation (IPA), in collaboration with the University of Stuttgart, has patented a new cell and electrode technology designed to stabilize aluminum anodes in batteries.

While aluminum has long been considered a promising anode material due to its low cost, high availability, and high storage capacity, technical challenges have prevented its industrial use. Previously, the volume changes in aluminum during charging and discharging cycles caused mechanical stress, leading to cracks, pores, and the pulverization of electrode material. This resulted in decreased capacity and limited cell lifespan.

The new patented innovation stabilizes the aluminum anode during repeated charge and discharge cycles, maintaining electrical contact within the electrode. This development aims to make aluminum-anode technology practically viable, combining high energy density with a sustainable, safe, and cost-effective cell architecture that can be manufactured using existing production facilities.