A significant stride in the introduction of Tungsten into battery technology

H.C. Starck Tungsten Powders, a Germany-based subsidiary of Masan High-Tech Materials, has taken a major step forward in the development of tungsten-based coatings in the production and use of batteries. Positive results in the research process of H.C. Starck Tungsten Powders on batteries come amid strong demand for electric vehicles.

According to the latest press release, H.C. Starck Tungsten Powders and the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research Baden-Württemberg (ZSW) have been jointly investigating the use of tungsten-based cathode coatings in lithium-ion batteries. After various tungsten precursors were first systematically examined for their suitability, the first coating tests have now started. This will be followed by electrochemical investigations.

"We know from the current scientific literature that tungsten-based coatings significantly increase the cycle stability of a lithium-ion battery even with very small weight fractions," says Julia Meese-Marktscheffel, Head of Technology & Innovation Global at the company. "There is also strong evidence that tungsten-coated cathode materials can reduce gas development within the battery and thus increase its safety. In a first step, in cooperation with the ZSW, we want to understand these modes of action comprehensively. If the results are positive, in a second phase we plan to develop tailor-made tungsten chemicals for improved performance and safety in batteries”.

The encouraging research findings of H.C. Starck come at a time when electric vehicle technology is exploding, necessitating a ‘speed up’ in battery technology to keep up with that growth rate. Many manufacturers are currently in heated competition to develop the most advanced battery technology for the future, indicating bright prospects for this field.

Deputy CEO of Masan High-Tech Materials, CEO of H.C. Starck Hady Seyeda adds: “We see this collaboration as an important step in the evolution of elements such as tungsten in battery development and use. With the global EV push, making batteries safer and improving their performance is a critical element of wider adoption and application”.