Projects

BEST START advances innovative technologies with the potential to drive the future of sustainable energy. BEST START prioritizes promising technology with battlefield application. These include:

Extreme Temperature Electrolytes

Developing electrolytes capable of operating efficiently across extreme temperature ranges, from as low as -40°C to over 60°C. These advancements are critical for ensuring the reliability and performance of energy storage systems under varied environmental conditions.

Solid State Batteries

Advancing the technology of solid-state batteries to offer safer, more efficient energy storage solutions. These batteries represent a significant leap forward in terms of energy density and safety, reducing the risk of battery fires and enhancing longevity.

Advanced / Novel
Pouch Cell Fabrication

Innovating the manufacturing processes for pouch cells to enhance performance and scalability. These improvements aim to increase the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of batteries, making them more accessible for large-scale applications.

Meso-scale Combustion

Exploring small-scale combustion processes that are more efficient and less polluting than traditional methods. This technology focuses on generating energy in compact settings, ideal for portable power generation where space and efficiency are critical.

Ultra-wide Bandgap Voltaics

Investigating photovoltaic technologies that can operate across a wide bandgap spectrum, enhancing energy conversion efficiency. These technologies are pivotal for improving solar panels’ performance, particularly in environments with variable lighting conditions.

Energy Conversion from Decay Products

Harnessing decay products for sustainable energy conversion, this innovative approach seeks to utilize by-products of chemical processes as a source of energy, opening new avenues for recycling waste into power.

Multi-source Energy Distribution

Developing systems that allow for the efficient distribution of energy from multiple sources. This technology is essential for integrating renewable energy sources into the grid, ensuring a stable and reliable energy supply.

Novel Power Conversion

Creating new methods for converting energy into usable power with increased efficiency. These technologies aim to optimize the conversion process, minimizing energy loss and maximizing output.

Partner companies

BEST START supports Minnesota companies that have developed unique technologies with battlefield application. The following companies were selected to participate in BEST START’s FY25 application cycle:

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