LG Energy Solution and Seoul National University Achieve LMR Battery Large-Cell Stability Breakthrough for Reduced Cobalt and Enhanced Cost Competitiveness

September 13, 2026

Korea IT Times South Korea

Overview

A joint research team from LG Energy Solution and Seoul National University has developed groundbreaking operational and manufacturing conditions to enhance the stability of large-cell Lithium Manganese-Rich (LMR) batteries. This research elucidated the mechanisms behind gas generation and capacity degradation, crucial challenges for LMR batteries, paving the way for high energy density and cost-competitive commercialization with reduced cobalt content. This advancement significantly accelerates the market introduction of next-generation EV batteries, boosting their performance and sustainability.

In Depth

Key Findings

A joint research team from LG Energy Solution and Seoul National University has developed innovative operational and manufacturing conditions that dramatically enhance the stability of large-format Lithium Manganese-Rich (LMR) battery cells. This breakthrough is rooted in a detailed elucidation of the mechanisms behind gas generation and capacity degradation—key challenges that have historically hampered the commercialization of LMR batteries. As a result, significant progress has been made toward commercializing LMR batteries that offer both high energy density and superior cost competitiveness, while substantially reducing cobalt usage.

Technical Details

LMR batteries are a next-generation EV battery technology attracting significant attention for their ability to achieve high energy density while reducing battery costs by decreasing cobalt content and increasing the use of more affordable and abundant manganese. However, scaling up to larger capacities presented challenges such as cell swelling and capacity degradation due to gas generation at the electrolyte-active material interface during cycling. The research team identified the root causes of this gas generation and capacity degradation. They subsequently developed specific solutions to ensure the long-term stability of large-format LMR cells through subtle adjustments in electrolyte composition, charging profiles, and cell manufacturing processes. The technology also contributes to improved thermal stability and maintains performance in low-temperature environments.

Background and Industry Context

With the expansion of the electric vehicle (EV) market, battery performance, cost, safety, and sustainability are pressing concerns for the entire industry. Cobalt, in particular, is a strategic priority for battery manufacturers due to its high cost, supply chain risks, and ethical concerns. LMR batteries are a leading candidate to reduce this cobalt dependency, and this improvement in stability removes one of the most significant barriers to their practical application. This advancement will contribute substantially to cost efficiency and environmental footprint reduction in battery manufacturing, further accelerating EV adoption.

Strategic Significance and Outlook

Based on this technological breakthrough, LG Energy Solution is expected to proceed with the final stages of validation for the commercial production of LMR batteries. This enhanced stability is a critical factor for electric vehicle manufacturers to offer more affordable, longer-range, and safer EVs. In the future, LMR batteries could become a viable alternative to current NCM (nickel-cobalt-manganese) based batteries, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape of the EV market. This technology strongly propels the transition toward more sustainable energy storage solutions.

Source: https://www.koreaittimes.com/news/articleView.html?idxno=156856

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