The STARBATCH project, conducted in cooperation with Exergy Storage, the University of Twente, and the Institute for Sustainable Process Technology (ISPT), focuses on the development of new battery technology. This initiative aims to replace lithium with sodium in battery production, addressing both sustainability and strategic autonomy for the Netherlands and Europe.

Batteries are pivotal in the energy transition, with lithium-based batteries currently dominating the market. However, lithium's limited availability and the high costs associated with its extraction pose significant challenges. Recent research suggests that sodium battery cells, specifically those based on sodium tetrachloroaluminate (NaAlCl4), could offer a viable alternative with comparable or superior performance.

Sodium as a sustainable alternative

Sodium, unlike lithium, is abundantly available and can be easily extracted from salt (NaCl). The project partners have demonstrated that NaAlCl4 can be produced more sustainably and efficiently at lower temperatures by mixing sodium chloride, aluminum, and chlorine in a reactor. This process not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers the carbon footprint.

Strategic independence and energy efficiency

The innovative production process uses raw materials produced by electrical processes, such as chlorine, significantly reducing the carbon footprint. The abundant availability of raw materials like sodium chloride ensures strategic independence for the Netherlands and Europe in energy storage. The project aims to establish a new battery value chain in the Netherlands, from salt extraction to battery production.

Technology development and scaling up

Supported by TKI Energy, the STARBATCH project focuses on enhancing the efficiency and scalability of the production process. Key activities include developing and testing a new reactor, testing NaAlCl4 in laboratory batteries, and drafting a conceptual process design and economic analysis. Preparations for scaling up to pilot production are underway, with commercial production expected before 2030.