Axens Group, Syensqo, and public research organization IFP Energies nouvelles (IFPEN) have formed a joint venture to develop next-generation electrolytes for solid-state batteries in Europe.
The new company, Argylium, has been established to support the development, scale-up, and commercial demonstration of solid-state battery materials. Its initial focus will be on the industrialization of sulfide-based solid electrolytes designed for all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs).
Argylium will build on Syensqo’s experience in operating a solid-state battery pilot line in La Rochelle, France, using technology developed at the company’s research laboratories in Paris. The Paris research center will be used to define and prototype a portfolio of sulfide electrolyte materials, while the La Rochelle site will focus on advancing pre-industrial manufacturing processes.
Axens Group will contribute its expertise in process design, industrial scale-up, and chemical plant engineering, while IFPEN will provide know-how in inorganic chemistry and advanced materials, including oxide and sulfide-based particulate materials, drawing on research capabilities at its Lyon center.
Solid-state batteries have attracted growing interest from the automotive and stationary energy storage sectors due to their potential advantages over conventional lithium-ion technology. By replacing liquid electrolytes with solid materials, the technology promises improved safety, higher energy density, and the potential for faster charging. However, commercialization has proven challenging, as current production remains limited in scale, keeping costs high on a per watt-hour basis. Industry participants expect costs to decline as manufacturing scales and markets mature.
Commenting on the launch, Thomas Canova, Head of Research and Innovation at Syensqo, said the establishment of Argylium marks “an important step forward in bringing solid-state battery materials to market readiness.”
“By joining forces with Axens and IFPEN, we are enhancing the prospects for successfully scaling up Syensqo’s pilot innovations and contributing to the advancement of Europe’s electrification and energy storage ambitions,” Canova added.
