Global EV battery maker SK On now has a joint development agreement with Sakuu, the “world’s first manufacturing platform for printing battery electrodes.”
Sakuu 3D prints fully functional batteries in custom shapes and sizes with patterned openings for thermal management in a fully dry process that doesn’t use solvents. The San Jose-based company says its Kavian 3D printing platform (pictured) can cut the cost of battery production nearly in half. It asserts that the batteries will last longer and be easier to recycle than current lithium-ion batteries.
SK On, the world’s fifth-largest battery maker, is among the first to partner with Sakuu in developing the Kavian platform. SK On currently operates two EV battery plants in Commerce, Georgia. It’s further expanding its presence in the US Southeast by constructing additional EV battery plants through joint ventures with Ford and Hyundai.
SK On is rapidly ramping up battery production plans in the US – earlier this week, the South Korea-headquartered battery maker had signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ExxonMobil for a multiyear offtake agreement of up to 100,000 metric tons of Arkansas lithium.
Some exciting developments in battery manufacturing could come from this partnership – it’s one to watch.
