The Advanced Electrolyte Model (AEM) is a powerful molecular simulation tool developed by Dr. Kevin Gering at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and exclusively offered by Ridgetop Group. AEM functions as a virtual laboratory, allowing researchers to predict and analyze the behavior of battery electrolytes at the molecular level—producing over 100 key property metrics in a single simulation run.
With a built-in database of over 60 solvents and 40+ salts, AEM supports complex formulations, including multi-solvent and dual-salt systems. This enables rapid screening of new electrolyte combinations tailored for electric vehicles, grid-scale storage, and next-generation battery chemistries.
AEM is built on a rigorous scientific framework known as the Nonprimitive, Nonrestricted Associated Mean Spherical Approximation (NPNRAMSA)—a statistical thermodynamics model used to represent ion–solvent interactions and molecular structures more accurately than traditional methods. This is further enhanced by an ion-solvation equation of state (IS-EOS) to improve the precision of transport and thermodynamic predictions.
Extensively validated across hundreds of unique conditions, AEM consistently achieves 5–10% deviation or better compared to laboratory data. It dramatically reduces time and cost in battery R&D by eliminating trial-and-error lab work, while accelerating innovation with high-confidence predictions.
AEM is more than a scientific tool—it’s a catalyst for clean energy progress. By enabling smarter electrolyte design, AEM supports faster electric vehicle development, improved battery performance, and a more sustainable energy future.
Key Features & Benefits
Genome-Level Electrolyte Insights
Analyze over 100 properties per simulation: conductivity, desolvation energy, diffusivity, and more.Multi-Solvent & Multi-Salt Capabilities
Accurately model systems with up to five solvents and two salts.Comprehensive Component Database
Access 60+ solvents and 40+ salts with frequent updates.Performance Optimization
Resolve double-layer behavior, assess lithium desolvation, and study field effects at the Solid Electrolyte Interface (SEI).Scientific Accuracy
Most system predictions show <5–10% deviation from experimental data.Usability
Intuitive graphical user interface (GUI) for setup, visualization, and reporting.Fast Results
Avoid costly and time-intensive lab testing with high-speed virtual experimentation.
AEM Applications
AEM supports a wide range of research and industrial use cases:
Electric Vehicle Battery R&D – Optimize electrolyte formulations for fast-charging, long-life batteries.
Grid Energy Storage – Improve the efficiency of large-scale battery systems.
New Chemistry Development – Rapidly screen novel solvents and salts.
Cost Modeling – Evaluate scaling implications for commercial electrolyte production.
Regulatory Readiness – Design electrolytes to meet performance and safety standards globally.
About Idaho National Laboratory
As one of 17 national labs in the U.S. Department of Energy complex, Idaho National Laboratory (INL) is home to more than 5,700 researchers and support staff focused on innovations in nuclear research, renewable energy systems, and security solutions that are changing the world. From discoveries in advanced nuclear energy to carbon-free energy options and to protecting our nation’s most critical infrastructure assets, the talented team at INL is constantly pushing the limits to redefine what’s possible. To find out more information about INL visit their website at www.inl.gov.
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Ready to optimize your electrolyte formulations?
Contact Ridgetop Group to schedule a demo or request a software trial.
Contact Ridgetop Group to schedule a demo or request a software trial.