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Solid-state batteries: A promising technology thriving under pressure

Nov 13, 2023

Article

Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are currently a hot research topic in the field of electrochemical energy storage. Many believe that solid-state battery technology is the successor of lithium-ion—especially in the context of electric vehicles. The technology has the potential to revolutionize energy storage in several ways. SSBs boast a high energy density, have extended lifespans and fast-charging capabilities, and are safer than traditional Li-ion batteries.  

Solid-state batteries are intrinsically different from Li-ion batteries. Both their fabrication methods and testing conditions remain to be fully standardized, from the research laboratory environment to the production line. Notably, Japan, China, and the European Union have set ambitious targets to commercialize the technology by 2030 [1]. This blog article discusses the general differences between SSBs and Li-ion batteries, challenges that remain to be overcome for commercial production of SSBs, and the use of Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) for testing different battery parameters.

Why could solid-state be the future of batteries?

State-of-the-art lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are usually composed of two insertion electrodes (anode and cathode) with a liquid electrolyte in between (Figure 1, left). This liquid electrolyte is an ionically conductive medium which allows lithium ions to shuttle between the anode and cathode where it is intercalated, allowing for storing (charge) or dissipating energy (discharge). The anode and cathode are electronically separated by a nonconductive membrane. This measure prevents direct contact between the electrodes and avoids short circuits. 

On the other hand, the electrolyte in solid-state batteries (SSBs) is solid and serves as a separator between the anode and the cathode (Figure 1, right). This means that the anode and cathode materials must be in contact with the solid electrolyte which will facilitate the diffusion of lithium ions. This difference in the nature of the electrolyte comes with many promises regarding performance and safety.

(L) Cross-sectional illustration of a LIB. (R) Cross-sectional illustration of a SSB.
Figure 1. (L) Cross-sectional illustration of a LIB. (R) Cross-sectional illustration of a SSB.