Clean energy from Europe, for Europe – this is the focus of a research team from the Fraunhofer Institute for Manufacturing Engineering and Automation IPA, together with Varta Microbattery.

By Jan Nintemann and Jochen Siegle; Photo: Valentina Stepanova via Unsplash

Objective: A sustainable, high-energy battery cell for home storage that is completely free of toxic or carcinogenic materials – while offering greater energy density than conventional systems.

The project demonstrates how European research and industry are jointly developing solutions that combine environmental compatibility, resource efficiency, and technological excellence.

Sustainable Battery Cell with Circularity

The team utilizes a fluorine-, cobalt-, and nickel-free cathode, combining it with a high-capacity anode. Fluorine is also omitted from the electrolyte and binder, making the battery cell entirely fluorine-free and safer – preventing the formation of dangerous hydrogen fluoride.

Another innovative leap: So-called delamination technologies will enable the recycling of faulty coatings in cell production. This significantly reduces material costs and boosts the recycling rate – a crucial step towards a true circular economy in battery technology.

The new cell generation is expected to be market-ready by the end of 2028 – a strong signal for sustainable energy storage and European independence in key technologies.

Spotlight on Groundbreaking Research at TransformIT Europe 2026 in Brussels

For such pioneering innovations, the TransformIT Europe Trade Fair and Conference will open its doors in May 2026 in Brussels.

We invite researchers, universities, startups, and innovators from across Europe to present their ideas, concepts, and projects on the grand European stage – covering everything from GreenTech and digital transformation to climate-friendly production and green AI.

👉 Save the date and join us: TransformIT Europe 2026 is where Europe’s sustainable technologies become visible – and where visions become reality.