Seed projectsKaupapa kākano
Seed projects are funded 200k for up to two years. They are small and technically complex investigator-led projects. All Seed projects are relevant to NZ, and likely to make strong contribution, in the longer-term, to NZ's economic growth. Learn more about how we develop our Seed projects.
SfTI has funded 86 projects from 2016-2021. Applications for our last Seed Project Funding round closed on the 18th of June 2021, resulting in 15 projects. The 2021 Seed project fund is the last round of funding available during the National Science Challenges ten year term, 2014-2024.
If you are interested in learning more about these projects, you can contact the lead researcher by doing a web search for their name and organisation, or by following the 'Read more' link in some of the projects below.
Aluminium-ion batteries
A battery technology more sustainable and safer than Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) is urgently needed. Rechargeable aluminium-ion batteries (AIBs) are one promising alternative. AIBs are non-flammable, cheaper and more sustainable than LIBs. However, AIBs currently fall short on cathode performance. The researchers have a cathode material that outperforms most state-of-the-art cathodes. The project aims to increase the battery's energy density and cycle life. It will also increase the cell voltage, and develop an understanding of what is going on inside the AIB. The goal is to be the first commercial AIB to market.