Flint's compostable paper batteries with water electrolytes
While CES 2025Flint introduces its compostable product Paper batteries consisting of water-based electrolytes, an anode, a cathode and a separator. With these main parts, Flint's paper batteries can take a flexible or any shape. Until now, these materials have been packaged in a vacuum-sealed sleeve as standard. At the end of their life cycle user may recycle Discard parts of the batteries or use them for composting. The Singapore-based startup says composting begins with removing the vacuum-sealed casing and exposing the pieces to natural elements such as sunlight, rain and soil.
These environmental factors trigger degradation until the compostable paper batteries break down into harmless components. Flint adds that their paper batteries last longer than traditional batteries because they are rechargeable and use safe chemicals. During the test, the research team is able to power a fan Even if the compostable paper batteries are cut in half, the fan will be powered without a single spark or temperature rise. They add that unlike traditional batteries, their invention does not contain lithium, cobalt and nickel.
All images courtesy of Flint Co.
Fireproof, water-based invention that can power grids
Flint's research team also exposed their invention to fire. One of the most dangerous threats to traditional batteries is flames, as batteries can explode or release toxic fumes when exposed to high heat. Using the compostable paper batteries, Flint attempts to get them to light, demonstrating how her invention can withstand direct fire without burning or emitting harmful substances. Due to the water electrolytes and the use of cellulose as a key material, these batteries cannot catch fire. In fact, this invention is named “paper batteries” because of this cellulose, which is an ingredient in paper making.
The Flint team is still testing their compostable invention in extreme conditions. So far they have achieved a promising result as the batteries can still operate at temperatures twice as high or as low as conventional batteries. In terms of production, Flint plans to adopt the lithium-ion battery manufacturing process for its compostable paper batteries. The team recognizes that this is a challenge, but is still using it to enable “rapid scalability and compatibility with existing infrastructure.” There is no news yet on the project's expected release date or year, but once Flint's compostable paper batteries are ready, users will be able to use them in their personal gadgets and wearable technologies, as well as to power grids, devices, and even space technology applications.
Flint's compostable paper batteries can take a flexible or any shape
The standard packaging for the batteries is a vacuum-sealed housing
Users can recycle parts of the batteries or use them for composting
At the end of its life cycle, users can remove the vacuum sealed case to begin dismantling
Project info:
Name: Compostable paper batteries
Design: Flint
Matthew Burgos | Design boom
January 16, 2025