Are lithium-ion batteries patentable?

Frequently, patent filings for lithium-ion batteries cover a novel component material (e.g., an electrolyte formulation) or novel combination of component materials (e.g., solid-state battery architecture).

Who owns the most patents in Li-ion battery technology?

Toyota Group holds the most extensive patent portfolio in Li-ion battery technology with 3,840 IP assets, within the past seven years.

What is a battery patent?

The claims in these types of patents typically list specific formulation requirements, including details about the individual components in their initial form (raw materials) or upon assembly of the battery (e.g., concentration of electrolyte salt).

Are lithium-ion batteries reversible?

But unlike most technologies, the initial components of a lithium-ion battery cell can change in complex, irreversible ways during electrode manufacturing and battery cell assembly, and even more so once used in a product.

Are alternative battery chemistries getting more patents?

Between 2012-2021, the number of patent families filed in CPC class H01M10/054,13which relates to alternative battery chemistries, has steadily increased. The trends follow those seen for redox flow and solid-state battery technology, with a steady growth in the number of patent families filed in this class.

What is a lithium-ion battery?

A lithium-ion battery is a type of rechargeable battery. It includes a positive electrode with a positive current collector, a first active material, and a second active material. The battery also includes a negative electrode with a negative current collector and a third active material, where the third active material is a lithium titanate material.