Breakthrough in lithium-metal solid-state battery technology
Imec, a leading research and innovation center, has announced a major breakthrough in battery technology. Working alongside 13 European partners in the H2020 SOLiDIFY project, imec has developed a lithium-metal solid-state battery with an energy density of 1070 watt-hours per liter (Wh/L). This is a significant improvement over today's standard lithium-ion batteries, which typically reach a maximum of 800 Wh/L. The higher energy density means that these new batteries can store more energy in the same amount of space, potentially leading to longer-lasting and more powerful electric vehicles. What's more, the new battery uses a manufacturing process that is both cost-effective and compatible with existing lithium-ion production lines, making it a strong candidate for commercial use.
evmarketsreports.com, Sept. 30, 2024 –
Why solid-state batteries matter
As electric vehicle (EV) adoption continues to grow, so does the need for more powerful and efficient batteries. Consumers are increasingly looking for cars that offer longer driving ranges and faster charging times. However, traditional lithium-ion batteries have limitations, particularly when it comes to energy density and safety. They rely on liquid electrolytes, which can be prone to leaks and fires.
Solid-state batteries, on the other hand, replace the liquid electrolyte with a solid material, offering several benefits. These include higher energy density, better thermal stability, and a lower risk of fire. Yet, despite their potential, solid-state batteries have been difficult to produce in a cost-effective way–until now.
A significant boost in energy density
The prototype developed by imec and its partners has changed that. Their lithium-metal solid-state battery achieves a remarkable energy density of 1070 Wh/L. This was made possible by combining several advanced materials and innovative manufacturing techniques.
At the core of the design is a "liquid-to-solid" electrolyte, created using a polymerized ionic liquid (PIL) nanocomposite. This electrolyte solidifies at room temperature, simplifying the production process. Additionally, the battery uses a thin lithium metal anode and a 50 μm solid electrolyte separator, creating a compact and efficient cell structure. The result is a battery that can store more energy in less space, offering a significant improvement over current technologies.
Affordable and scalable production
One of the most exciting aspects of this new battery is its cost-effective manufacturing process. Imec and its partners designed the production method to be compatible with existing lithium-ion battery factories. This means companies won't need to invest in entirely new facilities to produce these solid-state batteries.
The process is also projected to reduce costs to less than €150 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which would make solid-state batteries an affordable option for electric vehicles. This is a crucial development because the cost of the battery pack remains one of the largest factors influencing the overall price of EVs.
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