Stretchable, flexible, ultra-thin batteries made with zinc – Imprint Energy

The rapidly growing portable electronics industry means huge demand for affordable, durable batteries that pack more energy. Imprint Energy, a small business funded by the National Science Foundation, is pioneering a new way to manufacture ultra-thin, flexible, high-density batteries.

The zinc-based batteries overcome historical challenges by using a new chemistry for the electrolyte solution, according to the company, which makes the material more stable. The battery is then made on screen-printing equipment, the same method used to print t-shirt designs. The innovative process results in rechargeable batteries that are bendable and less expensive, the company says.

Imprint Energy is supported by the National Science Foundation’s Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)/Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) program, a nearly $190 million program that awards research and development grants to small businesses and startups, transforming scientific discovery into products and services with commercial and societal impact. To learn more visit: http://www.imprintenergy.com/