Ilika PLC (AIM:IKA, OTCQX:ILIKF) has announced positive safety test results for its Goliath solid-state battery prototypes.
Independent testing was conducted by University College London and showed that the Goliath P1 cells outperformed their lithium-ion counterparts in terms of safety, the company highlighted.
Tests involved a nail penetration test, designed to simulate a catastrophic failure scenario.
"Ilika has designed solid-state cells intended to provide a safer alternative to high-energy lithium-ion batteries,” chief executive Graeme Purdy said in a statement.
“Thanks to SafeBatt and this study, we have now observed test results which contribute to a growing body of evidence demonstrating Goliath's superior safety performance."
Importantly, the Goliath P1 cells did not explode or overheat, and their external temperature remained below 80°C. This contrasts with typical lithium-ion cells, which can swell, rupture, or catch fire, often reaching temperatures exceeding 600°C.
This effect, seen in lithium-ion batteries is known as the ‘thermal runaway’ – which occurs when damage to the battery allows chemical components to mix and react.
For the solid-state Goliath battery, the testing showed a much different effect.
The testing was carried out as part of a short collaborative study, in association with the Faraday Institution SafeBatt project, which aims to develop an improved understanding of safety in next-generation battery technologies.
James Robinson, Safebatt project leader, said that the performance exceeded expectations.
“While there is still further testing to be undertaken, there seems to be an inherent safety advantage in nail penetration tests for this cell type over conventional state-of-the-art cells,” Robinson said.
Meanwhile, Safebatt principal investigator Professor Paul Shearing added: “Embedding advanced safety testing in the development cycle for next-generation batteries is critical to accelerating their deployment, and we are delighted to work with Ilika in this study to translate our understanding of battery safety to their solid state technology."