Behind the Breakthroughs: Inside the GEIC Energy Lab

Applications Uncategorised 6 May 2025

As the global race toward net-zero intensifies, the world is calling out for cleaner, smarter, and more scalable energy storage solutions. The energy transition is no longer just a target—it’s a business imperative, an infrastructure priority, and a scientific challenge. And right at the heart of tackling this challenge is the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre (GEIC).

But what does it really take to develop tomorrow’s batteries? What happens behind the scenes—beyond the headlines and future forecasts? Let us take you inside the GEIC Energy Lab, where materials science meets engineering precision, and visionary thinking turns into real-world impact.

Where Innovation Happens

The GEIC Energy Lab is more than just a facility—it’s a living, breathing hub of innovation. Here, our team of dedicated Application Specialists and researchers work directly with businesses, academics, and entrepreneurs to solve the toughest energy storage challenges.

We don’t believe in off-the-shelf answers. Every battery project is different—so our lab is designed to be as flexible and advanced as the problems it’s solving. Whether it’s improving battery lifespan, enhancing charge speed, or replacing rare materials with sustainable alternatives, we tailor every project from the ground up.

Watch: Inside the GEIC Energy Lab

Step Inside Our Process

Developing a next-generation energy storage device isn’t a linear process—it’s an intricate dance of chemistry, materials engineering, and design iteration. Our team leads the way across all phases of this journey:

Electrode Slurry Formulation – Mixing advanced materials like graphene into custom coatings.
Coating & Drying – Turning those slurries into functional electrodes using precision methods.
Calendaring – Compressing and refining electrode structures for optimum conductivity.
Cell Assembly – Creating coin or pouch cells ready for real-world use.
Electrolyte Filling & Formation Cycling – Ensuring each cell performs reliably
Testing & Validation – Putting devices through performance tests under simulated operating conditions.

Meet the team behind the tech

The strength of the GEIC Energy Lab lies not just in its equipment, but in the people behind it. Our Application Specialists aren’t just technical experts—they’re collaborators, problem solvers, and innovators in their own right.

– Dr Nicky Savjani – Application Manager, leading strategic vision and partnerships.
– I-Ling Tsai – Battery expert with deep technical insight into electrode and cell development.
– Qiang Li – Supercapacitor specialist pushing the boundaries of rapid energy delivery.

This team works hands-on with companies of all sizes to understand their needs and design tailored R&D pathways that lead to scalable, commercially relevant outcomes.

“The development of next-generation battery technologies is crucial for enabling the transition to a robust and self-sufficient energy future. At the Graphene Engineering Innovation Centre, we explore cutting-edge nanomaterials, including graphene, to revolutionise battery design and performance, driving advancements in energy density, cost reduction, and safety. Our Graphene@Manchester ecosystem and in-house specialist expertise help GEIC accelerate the commercialisation of innovative energy storage solutions, positioning itself at the heart of global efforts to realise the next generation of batteries.”

Nic Savajni, Energy Application Manager

Our Capabilities

To see a full breakdown of our energy storage facilities and how we support innovation, visit our Energy storage page.

The GEIC Advantage

At GEIC, we believe in building solutions, not just prototypes. We are the connection point between concept and commercialisation—a place where scientific breakthroughs become usable technologies.

Through our Energy Lab, we help our partners:

Reduce material costs while improving performance.
Minimise reliance on rare or volatile resources.
Test next-generation battery chemistries including solid-state, sodium-ion, and silicon anode-based systems.
Get to market faster by bridging R&D with industrial processes.

And with the backing of The University of Manchester’s Graphene@Manchester ecosystem, we combine academic insight with practical expertise to create results that are not only innovative but also industrially scalable.

A Future Powered by Collaboration

We know the future of energy can’t be built in isolation. It will be shaped by close partnerships—between research institutions, industry pioneers, and bold entrepreneurs. Whether you’re building the next high-performance EV battery, designing grid-scale storage, or rethinking the way your sector approaches energy, the GEIC Energy Lab is here to help you make it real.

Let’s create the next energy breakthrough—together. Get in touch with our team today.