But what chemistry and form factor? If Maxwell used DBE to make electrodes for Solid Energy they could demonstrate 450 Wh/kg today. Can they demonstrate 300 Wh/kg using NCA in a 2170 can? I doubt it.
The most specific info I've found on DBE is in Maxwell's 10-K (emphasis mine):
Our dry battery electrode technology leverages our core dry electrode process technology currently used to manufacture ultracapacitors. This unique electrode manufacturing process expands our core technology into batteries of varying chemistry with value-added performance features over wet-coated electrode technology at a reduced production cost.
They don't have a chemistry, their coating process adds value to various existing chemistries. What value do they add? .
Value-added benefits include reduction in system cost by simplifying electrode production, significantly reducing manufacturing facility requirements, enablement of broad-range material use, flexibility in electrode architecture for high specific energy design and accommodation of eco-friendly manufacturing.
All good things, but mostly having to do with equipment cost, space requirements and environmental footprint. The only ways they improve energy density are with 1) thicker electrode ("electrode architecture") and 2) different materials (e.g. not NCA/graphite).
As I said originally, thick electrodes bring their own baggage and may not work in a 2170 can. The ability to use other materials is great. Whatever chemistry you use, Maxwell can probably coat your electrode substrates with it using less space and without nasty solvents. It's a "bring your own chemistry" model, though. Maxwell has not themselves developed a 300 Wh/kg chemistry.
