Iten has launched a development programme to adapt its high-capacity solid-state battery technology for Class III implantable medical devices, including cardiac assist systems.
The initiative, known as SOLIMED, forms part of the European IPCEI Tech4Cure programme. It will focus on adapting the company’s solid-state technology to the demanding requirements of devices implanted inside the human body, with objectives including smaller device designs, faster wireless charging and longer operating life.
Iten already develops and supplies batteries for Class I and Class II medical devices. The new programme represents an expansion into the Class III implantable market, with the company targeting applications including implantable cardiac pumps.
Development targets include a cell energy density of 600 Wh/L, capacity exceeding 2 Ah and the ability to restore 80% of capacity in less than 20 minutes. The technology is also being developed to combine safety, reliability, fast charging and extended operating life.
Iten’s architecture uses nanomaterials to create full-ceramic electrodes that are stacked and overmoulded into a battery module. Unlike conventional batteries with liquid electrolytes and organic materials, the all-solid-state design removes the risk of thermal runaway and flammability associated with those components. Its monolithic ceramic structure also reduces cell volume variation, a factor that can limit battery life.
For cardiac assist applications, the company plans to develop a battery pack incorporating several modules and a battery management system (BMS). The targeted energy density could support compact packs implanted within the body, while rapid charging is intended to enable transcutaneous wireless recharging.
“Implantable medical devices represent one of the most demanding applications for any energy storage technology,” said Vincent Cobée, CEO of Iten. “Safety is paramount, but it must be combined with high energy density, fast charging, reliability and long operating life. This development program is a major milestone for Iten and a strong validation of our core solid-state technology platform. It opens the way to a new generation of solutions for Class III medical devices, supporting our ambition to become a global leader in advanced solid-state energy storage.”
The programme will also assess biocompatible overmoulding materials and could support future applications in neurostimulators, hearing implants and other active implantable medical devices.
