The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has provided $670.6 million in loan support to Aspen Aerogels, a company specializing in fire-resistant materials for electric vehicle (EV) batteries. The funding aims to assist the construction of Aspen’s new manufacturing facility in Georgia, which will produce insulating materials to enhance battery safety in EVs.
Aspen Aerogels focuses on addressing battery fire risks in EVs. While EV battery fires are less frequent than in gas-powered vehicles, they are often more difficult to manage. Aspen’s thermal barriers are designed to slow or stop the spread of heat and flames within battery packs, potentially reducing the severity of accidents.
The company’s technology aims to prevent “thermal runaway,” where heat and chemical reactions within the battery can lead to fires or explosions. By placing thermal barriers between battery cells, automakers may limit the spread of such incidents, improving overall safety.
Aspen’s materials are already used by major automakers like General Motors, Toyota, and Audi. With the new Georgia facility set to begin operations in 2027, Aspen plans to significantly increase its production capacity, potentially supplying enough materials for over two million EVs annually.
Source: MITTechnologyReview
