INTERVIEW WITH STEPHAN ROGER – ARKEMA
Choosing safe and abundant materials like sulfur and carbon is vital for the next generation of batteries because it addresses both supply chain resilience and intrinsic battery safety.
Stephan Roger explains in this interview the role of ARKEMA in the TALISSMAN project as well as the necessary resources to produce lithium-suplhur batteries on a large scale.
What special materials is Arkema providing to the TALISSMAN project?
Arkema, a recognised leader in battery materials development for over 30 years, is primarily involved in developing and optimising the active materials for Generation 2027 and 2030 cathodes. Specifically, within the TALISSMAN project, Arkema is responsible for the development of high-performance sulfur/porous carbon composites with an intimate mixing structure. This encompasses both the materials science aspects and the corresponding manufacturing processes required to produce these composites for both generations of electrode cells.
Why is it so important to choose safe and abundant materials for future batteries?
Choosing safe and abundant materials like sulfur and carbon is vital for the next generation of batteries because it addresses both supply chain resilience and intrinsic battery safety. Using non-toxic, readily available elements reduces environmental impact and ensures thermal stability, while simultaneously making future battery technology economically viable for mass production.
How does your work help make these batteries easier to produce on a large scale?
Our work at Arkema is fundamental to making these new batteries, particularly Lithium-Sulfur systems and solid-state batteries, easier to produce on a large scale. Arkema does not just develop materials; we design solutions that are easily integrated into existing or future production lines. Our position as a global leader in speciality materials allows us to ensure reliable supply worldwide, which is an essential prerequisite for mass production. With over 30 years of experience, Arkema works in close collaboration with the entire battery value chain. Our R&D goes beyond the material itself: it includes process transfer. We collaborate with our partners to validate our materials within their own production environments to ensure that the transition from lab to factory is achieved as quickly and efficiently as possible.
In summary, our work aims to remove the chemical complexity from the industrial process, transforming innovative materials into standard products ready to be manufactured in millions of units.