Innovative Battery Research Partnership Launched between Swansea University and University of Limerick
Limerick, Ireland & Swansea, Wales – June 11, 2025 – Swansea University and the University of Limerick have joined forces in a groundbreaking collaboration aimed at revolutionizing battery technology. This initiative, backed by the Wales-Ireland Research Alliance Award, will focus on the development of advanced sodium metal batteries, creating a unique "anode-free" manufacturing process that eliminates the need to handle sodium metal.
Dr. Ashley Willow, a Senior Lecturer in Chemical Engineering at Swansea University and co-lead of the project, emphasized that using sodium—an abundant resource—offers a pathway to more economical, efficient battery production. These batteries promise superior energy storage and delivery compared to traditional lithium iron phosphate (LFP) models, making them particularly suited for electric vehicles.
With a funding allocation of €73,155 from the Research Alliance Award, this project is part of a broader €584,378 investment supporting eight cooperative ventures between Wales and Ireland. Rebecca Evans MS, the Welsh Government’s Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy, and Planning, expressed the significance of this initiative, stating it fosters innovation and addresses pressing challenges through strategic academic partnerships.
Professor Paul Boyle, Vice-Chancellor of Swansea University, highlighted the opportunities presented by the UK’s re-association with Horizon Europe, asserting that such collaborative projects are vital for enhancing regional innovation and international research ties.
Dr. Ibrahim Aminu from the University of Limerick echoed these sentiments, noting the project’s dual role in advancing battery technology and establishing a long-lasting partnership with Swansea. Given the anticipated surge in the global battery market over the coming decade, the collaboration positions both Wales and Ireland as leaders in clean energy innovation.
For more information, contact Ffion White at Swansea University Press Office.
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