Battery Breakthroughs: India's Advancements
in Lithium-ion Battery Technology
IIn today's world, driven by innovation and sustainability, energy storage solutions are at the forefront of technological advancements. Lithium-ion batteries, with their high energy density and long lifespan, have emerged as the power source of choice for everything from portable electronics to electric vehicles. Recognising this potential, India is making significant strides in lithium-ion battery technology and a key player in this endeavour is the CSIR-ICeNGESS project.
Lithium-ion Batteries in (a) Cylindrical, (b) Pouch Cells formats and (c) Sodium-ion Battery.
ICeNGESS: A Catalyst for Indigenous Battery Production
Launched by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), ICeNGESS stands for "CSIR Innovation Centre for Next Generation Energy Storage Solutions." This flagship project is spearheaded by the CSIR-Central Electrochemical Research Institute (CSIR-CECRI) and is a testament to India's commitment to "Make in India" and "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-reliant India) initiatives. The recently inaugurated 18650-type cylindrical Li-ion battery fabrication facility at CSIR-CECRI's Chennai centre marks a significant milestone in this journey.
A World-Class Facility for Innovation
This first-of-its-kind facility boasts a production capacity of 1000 cells per day, serving as a crucial bridge between pilot-scale research and the upcoming facility planned for Phase II of the ICeNGESS project. The emphasis here is not just on large-scale production, but also on fostering innovation. The facility will function as a demonstration platform, showcasing the potential of lithium-ion battery technology and paving the way for future advancements.
Empowering Indian Industries: A Multi-pronged Approach
The ICeNGESS project goes beyond simply building a battery production facility. It aims to create a robust ecosystem for indigenous lithium-ion battery technology in India. Here's how:
• Nurturing MSMEs: ICeNGESS provides crucial support to Indian industries and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by encouraging them to adopt indigenous fabrication techniques for lithium-ion cells.
• Technical Incubation: The project envisions creating avenues for technical incubation, providing budding entrepreneurs with the resources and guidance needed to establish lithium-ion battery startups.
• Knowledge Transfer: CSIR-CECRI plays a pivotal role in knowledge transfer, offering training and handholding support to ensure sustainable research and development (R&D) efforts in the field of energy storage solutions.
• Building a Domestic Supply Chain: ICeNGESS actively promotes the development of an indigenous supply chain for lithium-ion battery components, fostering collaboration between research institutions and private sector industries.
Beyond Lithium-ion: Exploring the Future of Energy Storage
The ICeNGESS project adopts a future-oriented approach. While focusing on lithium-ion technology, it also explores possibilities for next-generation energy storage solutions. Research is ongoing in areas like sodium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, with a vision to develop even more efficient and sustainable options. Additionally, the project recognises the importance of a circular economy for batteries. By promoting recycling and refurbishing practices, ICeNGESS aims to ensure a sustainable future for energy storage.
Synergy for Success: Partnerships Powering Progress
The success of ICeNGESS hinges on collaborative efforts. The recent transfer of CSIR-CECRI's lithium-ion battery technology know how to Tata Chemicals Ltd. (TCL) is a prime example of this synergy. This partnership allows TCL to leverage CSIR-CECRI's expertise and infrastructure to scale up cathode material production, a critical component of lithium-ion batteries. Furthermore, the MoU signed between CSIR-CECRI and TCL paves the way for joint exploration of new cathode chemistries, fostering innovation and accelerating India's progress in the field.
Looking Ahead: A Brighter Electric Future
The ICeNGESS project and its associated collaborations hold immense promise for India's future. By promoting indigenous battery production, ICeNGESS will contribute to:
• Reduced Carbon Footprint: Widespread adoption of electric vehicles powered by locally produced batteries will significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels and curb vehicular emissions.
• Megawatt Capacity Factories: ICeNGESS by nurturing industries and start-ups paves the way for establishing large-scale battery production facilities in India, meeting the growing demand for energy storage solutions.
• Economic Growth: The project fosters the development of a domestic battery industry, creating new job opportunities and boosting economic growth.
Challenges and Opportunities: The Road Ahead
Despite the remarkable progress achieved, the ICeNGESS project faces certain challenges. One key hurdle is securing a reliable supply of lithium, a core element in lithium-ion batteries. India currently lacks significant lithium reserves and dependence on foreign imports can pose challenges. However, ongoing research into alternative battery technologies like sodium-ion batteries offers promising solutions.
Another challenge lies in developing a skilled workforce capable of handling the complexities of large-scale lithium-ion battery production. Investment in training programmes and skill development initiatives is crucial to bridge this gap.
Collaboration on a Global Stage
While ICeNGESS prioritises indigenous development, international collaboration remains essential. Partnering with research institutions and battery technology leaders from other countries can provide access to cutting-edge knowledge and expertise. Additionally, participation in international programmes focused on battery research and development can accelerate India's technological advancements and position it as a global leader in energy storage solutions.
Public Outreach: Building a Sustainable Future
The long-term success of ICeNGESS and India's lithium-ion battery ambitions hinges on public awareness and support. Engaging the public through educational campaigns and interactive workshops can foster a deeper understanding of the importance of energy storage solutions and the environ-mental benefits of sustainable technologies. Encouraging public participation in battery recycling programmes can further contribute to a circular economy for batteries.
The ICeNGESS project is more than just a battery production facility; it is a symbol of India's growing scientific and technological prowess. By fostering innovation, empowering domestic industries and promoting sustainable practices, ICeNGESS is paving the way for a brighter electric future for India. The project's success serves as an inspiration for other developing nations aiming to achieve self-reliance in the domain of clean energy solutions. As the world collectively strives towards a sustainable future, India's journey with ICeNGESS positions it as a key player in shaping a cleaner and more energy-secure tomorrow.
Interview
Dr. K. Ramesha, Director, CSIR-CECRI
Karaikudi, Tamil Nadu
Q. What steps are being planned to scale up the 18650-type lithium-ion battery production facility from 1,000 cells per day to accommodate larger industrial demands?
A. CSIR-CECRI (Central Electrochemical Research Institute) and M/s. Godi Energy Pvt. Ltd. have entered into a public-private partnership through a MoA, to operate and maintain the Lithium-ion cells manufacturing facility created under ICeNGESS project (Phase-I) in Chennai. Godi Energy will produce 1000 cells on a daily basis. Further CSIR has a plan of establishing another facility (Phase-II) under ICeNGESS that aims to establish the infrastructure to produce cells of different chemistries (LFP & NMCs), technologies (Sodium-ion and Solid-State Batteries) and various form factors, including cylindrical 21700/32140 type (3-15 Ah), pouch (10-20 Ah) and prismatic (20-100 Ah) types.
Q. What advancements are being pursued in next-generation energy storage solutions, such as sodium-ion batteries and supercapacitors, within the ICeNGESS project?
A. The prime focus of ICeNGESS Phase-II is demonstration of next generation batteries mainly Sodium-ion and Solid-state batteries. The development of next generation technologies not only contributes to the advancement of battery technology but also ensures that we remain on par with global developments, preventing any lag behind. This strategic approach maintains competitiveness in the rapidly evolving battery market, positioning us at the forefront of innovation and technological progress.
Q. Can you share any upcoming project or initiative by CSIR-CECRI aimed at further advancing energy storage technologies and promoting sustainable practices?
A. An interesting upcoming initiative by CSIR is the mission mode project on "Battery to Battery: Recovery of Metal Values from Spent Lithium-ion Batteries and Fabrication of New Lithium-ion Batteries - A Circular Economy Approach" aiming at the recovery of metal values from spent Lithium-ion batteries and reuse them in the fabrication of new Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) as part of a circular economy approach. In this project, three CSIR labs, CSIR-NML, CSIR-IMMT and CSIR-CECRI have joined hands to develop efficient, sustainable and scalable processes for recovery of metal values from used Li-ion batteries and reuse the metal salts in fabricating battery materials or components. India has a very limited known reserves of lithium, as well as other important constituents such as cobalt, nickel, etc. So CSIR is looking into these aspects as battery recycling technology development that provides India with a great opportunity to overcome challenges such as limited critical metal resources and also to prevent environmental hazards associated with improper disposal of batteries.
Contributed by: Science Media Communication Cell (SMCC), CSIR-NIScPR, New Delhi.