Based in Ohio’s polymer technology valley, Akron PolyVolt Inc. develops advanced materials for electrochemical energy storage and conversion systems. The startup works on redox-flow and beyond-lithium-ion battery materials, ion-conducting polymer membranes, eutectic salt systems, and polymer composites for thermal management and electromagnetic-interference shielding.
Akron Polymer SystemsFounded in 2002 by University of Akron polymer scientists, Akron Polymer Systems develops and manufactures high-performance polymers, monomers, resins and films for applications ranging from displays and electronics to automobiles. Its Ph.D.-led team takes projects from chemical formulation through pilot-scale development and manufacturing, with a facility equipped for multi-kilogram scale-up and continuous roll-to-roll film casting. The company also works with commercial, government and institutional partners on jointly developed polymer technologies.CUYAHOGA FALLS, OH
Electrolock IncFounded as a small Ohio business in 1957, Electrolock manufactures custom electrical and thermal insulation solutions for high-voltage equipment, batteries, wire and cable. Its engineers combine materials design, converting, and analytical and high-voltage testing to develop insulation that fits demanding applications, including protection against thermal runaway in electric-vehicle batteries. Electrolock operates from Ohio and South Carolina and serves customers worldwide.HIRAM, OH
Orion PolymerBorn from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute research led by Dr. Chulsung Bae, Orion Polymer makes self-supporting anion exchange membranes for hydrogen and other clean-energy systems. Its CMX membrane is produced in formats ranging from laboratory sheets to 25-meter rolls, building on polymer chemistry that an independent National Renewable Energy Laboratory study found retained performance under 80°C alkaline testing for 1,000 hours. The Saratoga Springs company combines academic materials research with polymer scale-up and membrane manufacturing for commercial energy developers.COHOES, NY
NatrionNatrion develops U.S.-made battery materials and cell components, including its LISIC ceramic-polymer solid-state electrolyte and Active Separator, designed to improve battery safety and performance without requiring manufacturers to replace existing production equipment. Founded by battery materials engineers and supported by strategic partners, the company works with battery manufacturers and the U.S. Department of Defense on scalable technologies for next-generation lithium-metal, solid-state, and sodium-ion batteries.BUFFALO, NY