Ilika has moved closer to revolutionising medical device technology with the completion of its Stereax micro-battery production line in the United States. This significant milestone strengthens Ilika’s foothold in the solid-state battery market, positioning it to cater to growing demand in the medical sector while leveraging a decade-long partnership with Cirtec Medical.
Ilika has successfully installed the production line at Cirtec Medical’s advanced facility in Massachusetts. Following rigorous User Acceptance Tests (UATs), the process qualification stage is now underway, ensuring the equipment meets precise standards for manufacturing. The sophisticated tools include cutting-edge layer deposition, alignment, and patterning machines, all geared towards producing mm-scale batteries with unmatched energy density and longevity.
Since June 2024, Ilika has delivered batches of cathode-coated wafers to Cirtec for further refinement and process verification. This collaborative effort is focused on tuning the production equipment to deliver the high-performance metrics required for commercialisation. Importantly, Ilika retains key production capabilities in the UK, including cathode deposition and cell formation, reinforcing its expertise in advanced battery technology.
In August 2023, Ilika and Cirtec sealed a ten-year manufacturing licence, cementing Cirtec’s role as the production hub for Stereax batteries while Ilika drives technology innovation and IP licensing. This partnership aligns with Cirtec’s expertise in system miniaturisation, paving the way for next-generation medical devices that combine compact form factors with enhanced functionality.
The CEOs of both companies highlighted the significance of this collaboration. Graeme Purdy of Ilika emphasised how the advancement brings Stereax closer to deployment in miniature active medical devices, while Brian Highley of Cirtec noted the transformative potential of Stereax batteries in improving efficiency and durability in medical applications.
Ilika’s commitment to pioneering battery innovation is matched by Cirtec’s manufacturing excellence, together creating solutions that push the boundaries of what’s possible in medical technology.
Ilika plc (LON:IKA) is a pioneer in solid state battery technology enabling solutions for applications in Industrial IoT, MedTech, Electric Vehicles and Consumer Electronics.
