US battery breakthrough boasts 1,300 cycles and zero Chinese materials

Boston-based startup Pure Lithium, led by CEO Emilie Bodoin, has developed a lithium metal battery that promises significant advancements over conventional lithium-ion cells. The battery boasts over 1,300 charge-discharge cycles and eliminates reliance on critical minerals such as graphite, cobalt, nickel, and manganese—materials often sourced or processed in China. Instead, Pure Lithium uses a proprietary “Brine to Battery” process to extract pure lithium metal anodes directly from brine, paired with a vanadium cathode that enhances fire resistance and allows operation at temperatures up to 700°C. This design not only improves energy density but also reduces material costs and environmental concerns associated with traditional lithium-ion batteries. This innovation comes amid growing U.S. efforts to reduce dependence on China, which currently dominates around 90% of global rare earth production and supplies half of America’s critical mineral imports. Pure Lithium’s approach aligns with national priorities to secure domestic supply chains for clean energy technologies. The company is expanding its lithium production and