Lithium-ion batteries are widely used, but they are not ideal for all applications. They are relatively slow to recharge, flammable and temperature sensitive. Empa researchers Dr. Moritz Futscher and Dr. Abdessalem Aribia are developing a new type of thin-film solid-state battery that can be charged and discharged in one minute, has a high energy density and delivers reliable energy even at extreme temperatures. Together with Dr. Yaroslav Romanyuk, head of Empa’s “Thin Films and Photovoltaics” laboratory, they founded the spin-off BTRY in 2023 to bring this technology to market. 

Until now, thin-film batteries could only store little energy. The founders have succeeded in stacking the thin-film cells, which are only a few micrometers thick, into more powerful batteries. They have developed a process that uses high-precision vacuum coating and no toxic solvents. The production uses advanced, but proven and scalable techniques to ensure efficiency and quality. 

The applications for BTRY’s solution are diverse. They can be used in consumer electronics such as smartphones and smartwatches, as well as in sensors, robots, drones and satellites. 

BTRY founders Dr. Moritz Futscher and Dr. Abdessalem Aribia will use the new funds to produce the first battery cells on selected pilot lines. Customer feedback will be collected to iteratively improve the product and tailor it to the needs of the target group.