Tinci Materials, a critical supplier to major Chinese battery manufacturers like CATL, has secured eight key patents for solid-state battery technology. These patents cover advanced sulfide solid electrolytes, signaling a major step forward in next-generation battery development and strengthening the company’s position in the competitive global supply chain.
Solid-State Battery Breakthroughs
The patents, granted by the National Intellectual Property Administration, focus on both electrolyte formulations and their production methods. This includes four distinct electrolyte designs and four full-solid-state battery system applications. The goal is to improve battery safety, lifespan, and performance —specifically, higher energy density and longer cycle life. While these patents won’t immediately impact current operations, they provide crucial intellectual property protection as Tinci continues to refine its technology.
Pilot Production and Expansion
Tinci’s solid-state electrolyte development is currently in the pilot phase. The company is already providing kilogram-scale samples to cell manufacturers for testing, with a mid-scale pilot production line scheduled for completion by mid-2026. The manufacturing process builds upon Tinci’s existing lithium salt production expertise, using a liquid-phase reaction method to streamline operations.
Strategic Partnerships and Massive Contracts
Tinci’s strength lies in its close partnerships with industry leaders. The company has supplied CATL, the world’s largest battery producer, since 2015 and is now one of its most important suppliers. In June 2024, Tinci subsidiary Ningde Kaixin signed a multi-billion dollar contract to deliver 58,600 tonnes of solid lithium hexafluorophosphate to CATL over 2024-2025—enough electrolyte to support 410-470 GWh of CATL battery output. The contract is valued at over 1.38 billion USD.
This move secures Tinci’s role in the future of battery technology and cements its position as a key enabler for the rapidly growing electric vehicle market. The company’s patent filings and large-scale supply deals demonstrate a clear commitment to solid-state battery development, a field poised to revolutionize energy storage in the coming years.
