Can Critical Resources Overcome Technical Hurdles in Solid-State Battery Race?
Critical Resources Limited has secured a strategic position within the US Centre for Solid-State Electric Power Storage, accelerating its evaluation and development of safer, higher-performance solid-state lithium-ion batteries.
- Critical Resources accepted into US Centre for Solid-State Electric Power Storage (CEPS)
- Exclusive option to evaluate advanced solid-state lithium-ion battery technologies from South Dakota School of Mines
- Access to world-class research facilities and collaboration with leading universities and industry partners
- Technologies promise safer, higher energy density batteries with sustainable manufacturing processes
- Alignment of Mavis Lake lithium project with global solid-state battery innovation networks
Strategic Entry into Solid-State Battery Innovation
Critical Resources Limited (ASX – CRR) has taken a significant step forward in the race to develop next-generation battery technologies by joining the US Centre for Solid-State Electric Power Storage (CEPS). This move follows the company’s recent exclusive option to evaluate cutting-edge solid-state lithium-ion battery technologies developed by the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology (SDM).
CEPS, backed by the American National Science Foundation, is a collaborative research hub uniting top-tier universities and industry leaders such as Honda, Mercedes-Benz, and Nissan. By becoming an industry member, Critical Resources gains privileged access to a multidisciplinary network of researchers and state-of-the-art facilities, accelerating the transition of solid-state battery innovations from laboratory research to real-world applications.
Unlocking Safer, More Efficient Energy Storage
Solid-state batteries represent a transformative leap over conventional lithium-ion systems by replacing flammable liquid electrolytes with stable solid materials. This change significantly reduces fire risks and thermal runaway, while enabling higher energy density and longer cycle life. The technologies under evaluation by Critical Resources incorporate non-sulphide electrolytes and advanced lithium-metal architectures, which also support cleaner, more sustainable manufacturing processes.
These advancements are particularly relevant for sectors demanding high reliability and safety, including electric vehicles, grid storage, data centres, defence, and heavy industry. The ability to operate efficiently at elevated temperatures opens new market opportunities where traditional batteries face limitations.
From Resource to Market – A Fully Integrated Strategy
Critical Resources’ involvement with CEPS not only accelerates its technology validation and prototype development but also strategically links its Mavis Lake lithium project in Canada to a global network of battery manufacturers and technology companies. This vertical integration positions the company to capture value across the entire battery supply chain; from raw material extraction to advanced energy storage solutions.
Managing Director Tim Wither emphasised the importance of this collaboration, noting that CEPS provides a credible and rigorous platform to benchmark and reduce technical risks associated with the new battery technologies. The partnership also enhances Critical Resources’ appeal to future manufacturing partners seeking secure, traceable lithium supply aligned with cutting-edge solid-state innovations.
Next Steps and Market Implications
Critical Resources is now finalising the scope of its research program within CEPS, focusing on milestone-driven validation activities such as electrolyte testing, interface engineering, and cathode prototyping. These efforts aim to progress towards early-stage solid-state battery prototypes, setting the stage for potential commercialisation.
As global demand intensifies for safer, higher-performance, and environmentally responsible batteries, Critical Resources’ integration into CEPS signals its commitment to innovation and sustainability. The company’s approach could well influence the future dynamics of lithium demand and solid-state battery adoption worldwide.
Bottom Line?
Critical Resources’ CEPS partnership marks a pivotal advance, but the path from prototype to market remains a critical watchpoint.
Questions in the middle?
- What are the specific timelines and milestones for prototype development under the CEPS program?
- How will Critical Resources leverage its lithium assets to support downstream solid-state battery manufacturing?
- What commercial partnerships might emerge from this collaboration with CEPS and the South Dakota School of Mines?
