UPBEAT
An advanced K-ion battery technology for high‑energy‑density applications
Overview
Potassium-based batteries using innovative chemistries, offering high energy density and a low environmental footprint.
Laure MONCONDUIT (Institut Charles Gerhardt)
Current lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) dominate portable electronics and electric vehicles, but their reliance on critical metals and environmental impact necessitate alternatives. Potassium-ion batteries (KIBs) are emerging as a promising solution, combining high energy and power density, abundant materials (free of Co, Ni, Li), lower cost, and enhanced safety. Despite the larger size of K⁺ ions, KIBs could rival graphite||LiFePO₄ LIBs. Building on the expertise of four CNRS laboratories and the CEA, the UPBEAT project aims to address persistent challenges: potassium reactivity, material optimization (Prussian Blue analogues – PBAs, graphite), and safety. Two generations of KIBs will be developed. The second generation will refine all components (stable PBAs, graphite/durable carbon composites, electrolyte, stabilized interfaces) to reach competitive energy densities (228 Wh/kg and 422 Wh/L). A key focus is on electrolyte chemistry and safety (preventing HCN formation).
Keywords
K-ion batteries, high energy density, sustainability, fast charging, electrochemical mechanisms, aging processes, Prussian Blue analogues, carbon-based materials
Related news
Pas d’actualités
Tasks
Our research
Materials development
Optimize electrode and electrolyte formulations and their combinations. Develop a GEN‑1 prototype KIB using state-of-the-art materials (graphite and PBA electrodes with KPF₆/KFSI electrolytes in alkyl carbonates). Explore improved GEN‑2 combinations based on optimized materials.
Electrode synthesis and cell assembly
Validate GEN‑1 standard electrodes and electrolytes, then implement improvements (GEN‑2) using CEA’s scale-up platform.
Battery aging studies
Identify aging mechanisms and assess the safety of GEN‑1 and GEN‑2 batteries.
The consortium
3 academic laboratories and 2 CEA institutes.
UPBEAT is an interdisciplinary research project at the intersection of solid-state chemistry, solid (inorganic)/liquid (organic) interface chemistry, and electrochemistry. Its aim is to develop new high-energy KIBs, based as much as possible on sustainable materials. UPBEAT builds on a fundamental understanding of the “Composition–Structure–Properties” relationship. The project will generate knowledge on: (i) the optimal composition, structure, and morphology of PBA- and carbon-based electrode materials for KIBs; (ii) the optimal formulation for each type of electrode material; (iii) a deeper understanding of the electrochemical mechanisms and physico-chemical processes of KIBs through the use of advanced characterization techniques; and (iv) the safety issues associated with KIBs.
UPBEAT will be at the forefront of post-LIB research for the development of low-cost, environmentally friendly K-ion cells, notably eliminating the use of critical metals (Li, Co, Ni).
Training of 4 PhD students, 2 post-doctoral researchers, and 1 engineer.
Les autres projets PEPR
