SOLIDBAT Partner Insights - Specific Polymers

As an SME specialised in high-performance polymer materials, Specific Polymers brings key expertise in monomers, binders, additives, and polymer electrolyte components to the SOLIDBAT project. In this interview, Specific Polymers explains how its advanced ion-conducting materials, water-processable binders, and halogen-free flame-retardant additives are helping bridge the gap between laboratory research and scalable, more sustainable solid-state battery technologies.

Why did you join the SOLIDBAT project?

We joined SOLIDBAT project to bring our expertise in monomers and polymers to the development of next-generation solid-state lithium batteries. We believe this project is particularly valuable because it brings together complementary expertise across the value chain to accelerate the emergence of safer, more sustainable and higher-performing battery technology. This collaboration is great opportunity to demonstrate the value of our products in real battery applications while contributing to a more sustainable energy future.

Which innovative concept will be developed by SP within SOLIDBAT?

Within SOLIDBAT, we are developing a new generation of materials that serve as key components for solid-state batteries. Our innovations include ion-conducting monomers and crosslinkers, hydrosoluble polymeric binders and flame-retardants additives for gel-polymer electrolytes and water-processable cathodes. From lab-scale design to kilogram-scale production, we help bridge the gap between research and pilot-scale manufacturing.

Which is your main exploitable result?

Our main exploitable result is a library of advanced materials ready for use by research groups and battery manufacturers. These will be commercialized through direct sales for R&D and technology licensing for industrial applications.

How will your development contribute to sustainability and recycling KPIs of SOLIDBAT?

Our water-processable binders support the transition from solvent-based to water-based cathode manufacturing, eliminating harmful organic solvents and reducing environmental impact. In addition, supplying innovative crosslinkable components and halogen-free flame-retardant additives contribute to create safer and more sustainable electrolytes.

What would you say is a realistic timeframe to see SOLIDBAT batteries on the market?

Developing solid-state lithium batteries for large-scale automotive applications is a challenge that requires both scientific breakthroughs and industrial validation. Within SOLIDBAT, we expect to achieve significant progress toward industrial readiness, with first pilot-scale demonstrator cells by 2028 and potential market introduction toward the end of the decade - depending on how performance, cost and safety targets evolve.