Swiss start-up BTRY, born from Empa research, is set to revolutionize rechargeable batteries with their thin-film technology. Unlike traditional lithium-ion batteries, these offer increased safety, longer life, speedy charging, and eco-friendly production methods, without the hype.

Lithium-ion batteries, present in everything from phones to satellites, have their drawbacks—capacity loss, slow charging, and temperature sensitivity. BTRY’s lithium metal-based solid-state battery tackles these issues. It boasts one-minute charging, about ten times the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries, and resilience to temperature changes. Plus, it’s non-flammable, making it much safer.

The BTRY team, led by Empa researchers Abdessalem Aribia and Moritz Futscher, envisions practical use. Empa’s Thin Films and Photovoltaics lab have nurtured this innovation.

They use thin-film solid-state battery tech, stacking cells to increase energy storage. High-precision vacuum coating means no toxic solvents, though it’s pricier. Still, it’s a perfect fit for devices like smartphones, smartwatches, and satellites.

With support from Innosuisse and the ESA incubator, BTRY progresses. Aribia’s Empa Entrepreneur Fellowship bolsters the project. Challenges remain, like refining tech and engaging investors, but BTRY aims to scale up over two years, demonstrating its versatility. BTRY’s journey aligns with Empa‘s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial ventures among researchers.

Empa Entrepreneur Fellowship empowers start-up dreams with competitive grants and a year of financial backing. BTRY embodies Switzerland’s pursuit of sustainable tech advancement and environmental responsibility.

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