Japanese electronics manufacturer Maxell has developed a compact 1/2AA solid-state battery module capable of wireless charging and operating in extreme environments at temperatures reaching 150 degrees Celsius.
The unit delivers a standard output voltage of 3.6 volts and matches the dimensions of traditional ER lithium cells, measuring 14.5 millimetres in diameter and 25.2 millimetres in height. Maxell integrated solid-state rechargeable battery cells, a wireless charging circuit, and a step-up voltage converter inside the single module housing.
Two distinct versions of the battery module have been engineered for different industrial thermal requirements. The first model is designed to function at temperatures up to 125 degrees Celsius, while the second withstands operational heat up to 150 degrees Celsius. These specifications allow the power cells to be deployed in harsh industrial environments where standard rechargeable batteries typically fail.
A primary advantage of the design is the ability to recharge the battery without removing it from equipment. This feature allows manufacturers to build fully sealed device enclosures without external charging ports or removable battery covers, enhancing protection for internal electronic components against moisture, dust, and other environmental hazards.
The 1/2AA form factor refers to a standard cylindrical battery size measuring half the length of a traditional AA battery, commonly used to power industrial sensors, telemetry equipment, and memory backup systems. Solid-state batteries replace liquid electrolytes with solid materials, enabling higher thermal stability under extreme heat.
Testing with House Foods Corporation
Maxell is exploring practical applications for the power module in partnership with Japanese food manufacturer House Foods Corporation. The companies are currently testing the battery inside temperature recorders used on food production lines, where monitoring sensors face high operating temperatures and require sealed moisture protection.
Adopting rechargeable solid-state cells is intended to reduce the volume of discarded single-use batteries while lowering long-term equipment maintenance expenses. Maxell has not disclosed mass production launch dates or commercial pricing for the modules as testing and application evaluations remain ongoing.
