The CRADA will evaluate Magnera’s OmniSep™ platform for next-generation batteries, with potential applications in defence, critical infrastructure and commercial markets.
Magnera has entered into a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Army Research Laboratory. Announced on October 13, 2026, the collaboration will evaluate and advance next-generation battery separator technologies to address evolving energy requirements.
The research will focus on Magnera’s OmniSep™ platform, which is designed to improve battery performance, safety and reliability in demanding operating environments.
OmniSep™ Targets Battery Performance and Safety
Magnera’s OmniSep™ is an advanced separator technology designed for next-generation battery systems. According to the company, the platform offers high ionic conductivity, superior electrolyte wettability and enhanced thermal stability.
These properties are intended to support battery power, efficiency and safety. The company notes that its thermal stability claim is based on internal testing.
The collaboration will bring together the Army Research Laboratory’s research capabilities and Magnera’s expertise in advanced materials to evaluate the technology’s potential.
Supporting Defence Energy Requirements
The agreement comes as the U.S. military focuses on resilient energy systems and reliable power for distributed and contested operations.
Military platforms are increasingly dependent on power-intensive technologies. These include autonomous systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) platforms, electronic warfare equipment, counter-unmanned aircraft systems (counter-UAS), resilient communications and directed-energy systems.
Advances in battery separator technology could help improve energy storage safety and system performance. They may also support longer operational endurance and reduce logistical demands across current and future defence applications.
Beyond defence, the research could have relevance for critical infrastructure and commercial energy storage, depending on the technology’s performance and application requirements.
Magnera Highlights US Manufacturing Capabilities
OmniSep™ is designed and manufactured in the United States. Magnera says the platform uses domestic production capabilities and U.S.-sourced raw materials.
The company states that this approach supports secure and resilient supply chains for mission-critical energy storage technologies. It also aligns with efforts to strengthen domestic advanced manufacturing and materials production.
Curt Begle, Chief Executive Officer of Magnera, said the collaboration reflects the growing importance of energy resilience and advanced batteries.
“Energy resilience and advanced battery technologies will play an increasingly important role in national security, infrastructure modernization, and the future of mobility,” said Begle. “This collaboration is an investment in technologies that can enable the next generation of energy storage solutions. By combining the Army Research Laboratory’s research capabilities with Magnera’s advanced materials expertise, we have the opportunity to accelerate innovations with potential impact across defense, critical infrastructure, and commercial markets.”
About Magnera
Magnera Corporation (NYSE: MAGN) serves more than 1,000 customers worldwide and provides material solutions for several industries. Its products include components for absorbent hygiene products, protective apparel, wipes, specialty building and construction products, and food and beverage applications.
The company operates 44 production facilities worldwide and employs more than 8,000 people. Magnera says it has more than 160 years of experience delivering material solutions to customers.
The CRADA will provide a framework for evaluating the OmniSep™ platform’s potential in next-generation battery applications. Further outcomes will depend on the research and technology evaluation.