In a major breakthrough for clean tech and sustainable innovation, Ukrainian startup SorbiForce has introduced what it claims is the world’s first fully circular and sustainable battery, built entirely from carbon, salt, water, and agricultural waste. The solution presents a safer, eco-friendlier alternative to conventional lithium-ion batteries, which often come with toxic byproducts, fire hazards, and disposal challenges.
Reimagining Energy Storage with Simplicity and Safety
SorbiForce’s new battery tech sidesteps chemical reactions in favor of three physical processes that transport electrons through an ultraporous carbon layer. Both the anode and cathode are carbon-based, making the battery entirely metal-free and nonflammable.
“What’s really interesting about our technology is that the ultraporous carbon materials actually get better as they age,” said Kevin Drolet, CMO of SorbiForce. “The battery life could be up to 30 years as long as you can add more water.”
Waste-to-Value: A Circular Approach
The company’s mission is rooted in the idea of transforming waste into value. With over 95% of each battery recyclable or biodegradable, SorbiForce’s solution creates a closed-loop energy storage system—a stark contrast to the growing issue of lithium-ion waste.
Notably, the battery is so stable that, as Drolet explains, “you can cut one of SorbiForce’s cells in half and still keep the lights on”—with no risk of explosion or toxic leaching.
Scaling Up for U.S. Production
Following its acceptance into the University of Arizona Center for Innovation through the U.S. Department of State’s GIST program, SorbiForce has established a U.S. presence. It’s currently preparing pilot battery projects (60–150 kWh) for deployment in late 2025 and is seeking $5 million in seed funding.
“Compared to lithium-ion, our capex is much lower,” Drolet noted. “Our materials—salt, carbon, water—are abundant here in the U.S., lowering the cost barrier for domestic production.”
Positioning for a Safer, Smarter Battery Future
With more than 6,000 charge cycles, modular scalability, and zero risk of fire or explosion, SorbiForce batteries could become a go-to solution for residential, commercial, and off-grid energy storage. As the push for localized, safe, and sustainable energy grows, the startup is well-positioned to lead the charge—literally.
SorbiForce’s innovation signals a potential paradigm shift in the energy storage industry—one where batteries are safe, sustainable, scalable, and circular. As the startup gears up for pilot deployment and fundraising, it reflects a broader movement toward technologies that don’t just store energy—but do it responsibly.
