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SUNSHINE Coast company Nano-Nouvelle has raised $3.7 million to support its development of a 3D nano-structured, porous electrode.
The Nanode electrode from the company is intended for use in high-energy and high-power batteries which Nano-Nouvelle hopes will exceed the limitations of today’s batteries, with faster charging, and longer periods between recharging.
Nano-Nouvelle has been at work on the technology since 2008, but turned its attention to battery applications in 2011. The company hopes its technology allow it to take advantage of the wave of renewable energy solutions, which is estimated by the International Renewable Energy Agency's REmap 2030 report to make up 45 percent of the electricity sector by 2030.
To be truly effective, renewables will require effective battery storage to smooth out the power generation vs consumption patterns. Battery technology will play a key role in the future of renewable, while power-hungry consumer devices will also maintain demand for battery technology.
Thus far, the Nano-Nouvelle team has successfully found a polymer-base membrane compatible with the electrolytes of the battery chemistries being researched, from membrane supplier DreamWeaver International. The companies have agreed to collaborate, allowing the Australian company to customise the polymer structure for optimal functionality.
The company is also working on developing scalable manufacturing processes and controlling the costs of the materials, evaluating equipment and chemical suppliers and working with them to design prototype manufacturing equipment and test systems.
Nano-Nouvelle has four international patents pending, and worked with is investors and advisers to raise $3.7 million from 12 new and existing investors. It has received a grant from BioSA.