Why Solid-State Battery Research is Gaining Momentum Beyond Conventional Li-Ion Technology

The Push Beyond Traditional Lithium-Ion Batteries

For the last few decades, the lithium-ion battery has been extensively applied in smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles; nevertheless, researchers have started paying less attention to traditional lithium ion batteries owing to growing demand for energy. The rapid development of electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and portable devices has revealed several limitations related to the current generation of lithium ion batteries in regards to safety, quick charge, and energy density. Not surprisingly, the popularity of solid-state batteries is increasing worldwide, which is boosting innovations within the global lithium ion battery market.

In comparison with traditional lithium ion batteries, where a liquid electrolyte is used, solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte in place of the liquid electrolyte. Such minor differences may result in considerable advancements. Research shows that today's lithium ion batteries, which are installed in electric vehicles, possess an energy density of around 150-300 Wh/kg, while future solid-state batteries are expected to generate up to 400-800 Wh/kg.

(Sources: Laserax, EVFY)

Higher Energy Density is Driving Research Interest

One of the most significant factors contributing to the popularity of solid-state batteries is their increased capacity to provide more energy in a smaller volume. High energy density ensures that the vehicle will be able to cover greater distances while carrying less heavy battery packs. For instance, some modern solid-state battery packs show a capacity of over 600 Wh/kg – twice as much as conventional lithium-ion batteries.

According to estimates, solid-state batteries have the potential to cut the overall weight of the battery packs by up to 30–40%, along with delivering substantial improvements in distance coverage capabilities. In this context, the maximum range offered by some experimental EV battery packs is even expected to exceed 1,000 km per charge.

The matter is of particular relevance as current batteries comprise 30–40% of the total price of electric cars.

(Sources: CAS, Popular Mechanics, Axios)

Safety Concerns are Accelerating Innovation

Conventional lithium-ion batteries incorporate flammable liquid electrolytes, which pose a risk of catching fire and exploding due to thermal run-away. The solid-state batteries use non-flammable solid electrolytes, providing an inherent safety feature.

Battery safety is becoming increasingly important as the adoption rate of electric vehicles increases worldwide. The safety of the batteries is currently one of the primary objectives in research and development processes. For instance, there are examples of solid-state batteries, which passed puncture and mechanical tests without igniting during the process.

Solid-state batteries also offer increased longevity compared to conventional batteries. While most lithium-ion batteries start showing signs of degradation at around 1,000 charge cycles, solid-state batteries can be developed for more than 5,000 cycles.

(Sources: ScienceDirect, Midtronics, EnerTherm Engineering)

Faster Charging is Becoming a Competitive Advantage

Another factor that shows potential in solid-state batteries is the speed of charging. Since faster movements of ions in solid electrolytes are possible, it is plausible that solid-state batteries can charge much quicker than regular lithium-ion batteries.

A recent test performed on advanced solid-state battery cells showed that charging from 15% to 90% takes around 18 minutes. Quicker charging will help eliminate concerns about the range, which will encourage consumers to buy more electric cars especially in areas where the infrastructure is not yet fully developed.

Scientists are also looking into using solid-state batteries for space applications, energy storage on the power grid, health care, and wearables.

(Sources: The Verge, ScienceDirect)

Challenges Still Remain Before Mass Adoption

Despite the evident progress that has been made, solid-state batteries are still not fully prepared to completely take over the position of their lithium-ion predecessors in a large-scale commercial capacity. The complicated process of manufacturing, high costs, and difficulties with scaling up production have proved to be significant challenges to the further development of solid-state technology.

Nonetheless, continuous advancements in materials science and new developments in electrolyte chemistry and battery design contribute greatly to furthering research efforts into developing such innovative power sources. With governments, colleges, and energy research centers, making significant investments in creating the next generation of batteries, solid-state batteries are expected to become one of the main successors to lithium-ion technology.

FAQs

• Why are solid-state batteries viewed as safe batteries over lithium-ion batteries?
  • Answer: Solid-state batteries employ non-flammable solid electrolytes that make the battery safe as it prevents any overheating and leakage.
• How many times is the energy density of solid-state batteries high compared to lithium-ion batteries?
  • Answer: The experimental solid-state batteries aim at achieving an energy density of 400-800Wh/kg compared to about 150-300Wh/kg in lithium-ion batteries.
• Are the solid-state batteries fast in charging?
  • Answer: Yes, they can be charged to reach 90% of its capacity from 15% within 20 minutes.
• Why are automobile companies funding research on solid-state batteries?
  • Answer: They require high capacity, light battery pack, fast charging, and safety features.
• What are the obstacles hindering the commercialization of solid-state batteries?
  • Answer: There are manufacturing costs, material problems, and large-scale production obstacles.