Events

Abstract 

Discovering new battery technologies is a demanding and rigorous endeavor, but commercialization represents the equally critical second half of the equation, one often underestimated in academic circles. Discovery blends serendipity with hard work, while bringing a technology to market demands a different kind of fortune — the right market timing, access to capital, and a viable path to scale. From cathode breakthroughs like LiFePO₄ to the promise of lithium metal anodes, advances in chemistry and materials science have long defined progress in the field, though some innovations arrived before the market was ready and only later found adoption. Translating these advances into scalable, reliable, and economically viable products requires a distinct style of research, one shaped not just by scientific curiosity but also by manufacturability, safety, cost, and market dynamics. This talk will explore that path from chemistry to commercialization.

Drawing on my experience at EnergyX, I will highlight technical work in lithium processing and battery development, including roll-to-roll production of lithium metal anodes. These projects illustrate both the opportunities and the barriers that arise when trying to bridge laboratory innovation with industrial deployment. Just as important as the science are the less visible challenges: scaling processes from grams to tons, meeting purity and safety standards, managing supply chains, and aligning technical milestones with investor and customer needs.

By examining these commercialization challenges alongside technical advances, I aim to provide students and researchers with a clearer picture of how fundamental discoveries become real-world technologies. The goal is not only to share insight into emerging battery developments, but also to highlight the mindset and skillset required to navigate the complex road from laboratory discovery to large-scale manufacturing.

About the Speaker

Dr. Nicholas Grundish is the Vice President of Battery Technology at EnergyX, where he leads R&D and commercialization efforts for next-generation lithium battery materials and manufacturing processes. He earned his Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin under Dr. John B. Goodenough. Dr. Grundish's expertise spans lithium metal anodes, solid and liquid electrolytes, cathode materials, and direct lithium extraction. He is passionate about bridging the gap between laboratory breakthroughs and scalable industrial solutions in the energy storage space.