Group 1 presents world's first potassium-ion battery in 18650 format

Texas-based battery tech firm Group1 has recently announced the formal introduction of what it calls as the world's first Potassium-ion battery (KIB) in the cylindrical 18650 form factor. The battery technology offers a sustainable, efficient, and cost-effective solution, adds the manufacturer, with less reliance on critical minerals like nickel, cobalt, copper, and lithium.

Group1 has started delivering sample batches of its latest battery to key tier 1 OEMs and cell manufacturers. KIB is identified by the industry experts as viable alternative to LFP li-ion batteries for demanding mobility applications, with reduced supply-chain pressures and scope for domestic manufacturing of critical battery technology.

The new battery was unveiled at the recently held 14th annual Beyond Lithium Conference at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. At the conference, Group1 highlighted the product's path from coin-cell to pouch-cell to 18650, showcasing the unique attributes and competitive advantages of KIB. 

Alexander Girau, CEO of Group1, commented on the launch, "We are excited to introduce the world's first 18650 Potassium-ion battery. This innovation represents years of dedicated research and product development. By distributing samples to our partners among Tier 1 OEMs and cell manufacturers, we are paving the way for widespread adoption of this transformative technology."

Leveraging Kristonite, Group1's flagship product, a uniquely engineered 4V cathode material in the Potassium Prussian White (KPW) class, the battery enables the best combination of performance, safety, and cost when compared to LiFePO4 (LFP)-based LIBs and Sodium-ion batteries (NIBs), according to the company. 

It is pertinent to note that the 18650 form factor is the most widely used and designed cell formats today. These new 18650 batteries use commercial graphite anodes, separators, and electrolyte formulations comprised of commercially sourced components. 

Experts opine that they offer superior cycle life and excellent discharge capability. Group 1's latest battery is said to exceed the initial performance expectations and demonstrates a practical path to achieve a gravimetric energy density of 160-180Wh/kg, which is standard for LFP-LIB.