SK On has developed a cathode manufacturing process that could reduce production costs for lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. The technology replaces expensive carbon nanotube (CNT) paste with CNT powder, and the company plans to evaluate its potential application in commercial production.

SK On announced on Oct. 18 that it held its second Future Technology Institute Research Conference at its research center in Daejeon from Oct. 14 to 15. The conference featured more than 300 research projects across six areas — battery processes, cells, systems, materials, next-generation technologies and platforms — an increase of approximately 15% from 2025.

The grand prize went to a research team that developed a process for replacing CNT paste with CNT powder in LFP battery cathode manufacturing. CNTs are conductive additives that facilitate electron movement within battery electrodes. The researchers achieved uniform dispersion of CNT powder in cathode materials, maintaining performance comparable to the conventional process while improving cost competitiveness.

The top excellence award went to an electrode design technology for large-area pouch-type lithium-metal batteries. A model that predicts capacity degradation and internal resistance under different battery charging, discharging and storage conditions was also recognized as an outstanding research achievement.

SK On also held a technology exhibition highlighting major research projects. In a keynote address, Yonsei University Professor Lee Yong-min discussed the current state and outlook of digital twin technology, which recreates physical battery designs in virtual environments to analyze their performance and condition.

“We will further promote a research-driven culture and continue technological innovation to lead the next-generation battery market,” SK On President Lee Yong-wook said.