Ilika is developing its Stereax solid-state batteries for use in very small medical devices, wearables and industrial sensors where conventional batteries can be too large or unsuitable. The company is focusing on applications that need a rechargeable battery with a very small footprint, low leakage and a long operating life. Stereax batteries are solid-state devices, meaning they do not contain liquid or polymer components.
The first Stereax product is expected to have a volume of around 20 cubic millimetres. Its rectangular shape is similar to an integrated circuit, allowing it to be incorporated into compact electronic products with limited internal space.
Ilika says Stereax batteries can be recharged thousands of times and have leakage measured in nanoamps. These characteristics are relevant for devices that may need to operate for long periods without frequent battery replacement.
The Stereax M300 gives a clearer view of the technology’s current specifications. It is 1.1 mm thick and measures 3.6 mm by 5.6 mm. The battery has a capacity of 300 µAh and can provide pulse power of 12 mW for 0.1 seconds. Ilika also states that the M300 can exceed 1,000 charging cycles at 50 per cent depth of discharge.
The company is targeting several medical applications, including neurostimulation, cardiac sensing, smart orthopaedics, smart orthodontics and smart contact lenses. It is also targeting small industrial Internet of Things sensors.
The MedTech market is central to that strategy. Ilika has licensed Cirtec Medical to manufacture and commercialise Stereax for medical technology applications. That agreement gives the battery a defined route into the medical device market without requiring Ilika to handle all manufacturing and commercial activity itself.
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.
