A group of European companies and research centers is advancing in the development of a greener and more powerful battery that could change the future of electric mobility. This is the TALISSMAN project, led by Spanish institutions, which aims to perfect fifth-generation lithium-sulfur batteries.
With funding from the Horizon Europe program and an expected duration of four years, the goal is to offer a sustainable and efficient alternative for heavy transportation, electric aviation, and the automotive sector.
The new batteries promise to double the energy density compared to current lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, they use sulfur, an abundant and economical resource, which reduces the pressure on scarce minerals like cobalt and nickel.
Spain plays a central role in this project, with companies like CIDETEC, Airbus Operations, Tecnalia, and Sustainable Innovations at the forefront of designing and validating hybrid and solid technologies that could be ready between 2027 and 2030.
The innovative and sustainable technique for extracting valuable metals from lithium batteries.
A strategic alliance for cleaner energy
Each participating institution brings key expertise. CIDETEC works on advanced electrodes and electrolytes, while Airbus defines the requirements to adapt these batteries for electric aviation, where weight and safety are priorities.
Tecnalia contributes to synthesizing materials for lithium anodes and analyzes the environmental impact of the proposed solutions’ life cycle. This ensures that technological advancements go hand in hand with sustainability.
Sustainable Innovations focuses on disseminating the project results, training professionals, and integrating innovation into the market. The consortium is completed with partners from France, Germany, and Italy, reinforcing the European dimension of the development.
Together, they work to overcome the current challenges of these batteries, such as electrode degradation or the instability of polysulfides, through structured cells and innovative materials that extend their lifespan.
Sustainable alternatives to conventional lithium batteries
While lithium-sulfur batteries represent a significant improvement, they are not the only path of innovation. Solid-state batteries eliminate the liquid electrolyte, reducing risks and increasing thermal and mechanical stability.
Solutions based on sodium are also being explored, which could replace lithium for being more abundant and cheaper. Although they currently have lower capacity, their potential for stationary storage is promising.
Other options under study include redox flow batteries, ideal for large-scale fixed systems, and supercapacitors, which offer fast charges in light vehicles albeit with lower autonomy.
Extending the lifespan of lithium batteries.
An energy transition with a European seal
TALISSMAN aims to position Europe as a global leader in clean battery technology. This initiative allows reducing dependence on external suppliers and aligning production with the goals of the European Green Deal.
The newly developed technologies will benefit not only electric vehicles but also drones, light aircraft, and long-haul trucks. Energy efficiency will be key to reducing polluting emissions.
The roadmap includes safety tests, predictive modeling, and industrial scaling, all with a view to consolidating a more circular and resilient energy industry. With these advancements, Europe takes a firm step towards a more ecological and autonomous mobility.
