Developer of experimental batteries raises In-Q-Tel funding

Company is designing ultrathin, rechargeable zinc-based batteries.

Imprint Energy, which develops experimental battery technology, received funding from CIA venture capital wing In-Q-Tel, the company announced.

The company is designing ultrathin, high-energy density zinc-based batteries as an alternative to traditional lithium battery technology. The new batteries could power mini-drones, robots, radios and other small devices deployed on the battlefield. It did not disclose the amount it raised in In-Q-Tel funding.

Imprint Energy is located in Alameda, Calif., known as “Silicon Island” for its proximity to Silicon Valley. Nearly one-third of the 87 companies listed in the portfolio In-Q-Tel are based in California’s Silicon Valley.