Dutch battery startup LeydenJar’s silicon anode tech could pose a challenge to China

Dutch battery startup LeydenJar is developing silicon anode technology that could significantly challenge China's dominance in lithium-ion battery production, particularly in graphite anodes. With recent funding led by investors Exantia and Invest-NL, plus a €10 million commitment from a U.S. customer, LeydenJar plans to open its first manufacturing facility, PlantOne, in Eindhoven by 2027. Their silicon anodes promise a 50% increase in energy density over traditional graphite anodes, a substantial improvement compared to the incremental gains seen so far in the industry. LeydenJar’s innovation lies in using plasma vapor deposition to grow spongy silicon columns on copper sheets, allowing the silicon to expand and contract without crumbling—a common challenge due to silicon’s tendency to swell during lithium ion storage. This structure supports faster charging and a lower carbon footprint. While the anodes can endure over 450 charge cycles before losing 80% capacity, this still falls short of the 1,000 cycles automakers