Supplement: Power
Can solid-state batteries fulfil their potential?
Solid-state batteries promise unique performance and safety advantages, yet there is some way to go before they achieve widespread commercial adoption, explains Mark Patrick, director of technical content, EMEA, Mouser Electronics
S
ome innovative technologies capture the imagination and are discussed in hallowed terms across multiple sectors. Solid-state batteries fit that description. This relatively new type of battery chemistry has been touted as lighter, safer, and stronger, with greater energy density than lithium-ion (Li-ion). It is predicted to transform multiple areas, including electric vehicles (EVs), consumer goods, and renewable energy storage. The global solid-state battery market was valued at $126.7 million in 2022 and is likely to grow to $240.18 million in 2024. However, the forward projections are stratospheric, with a predicted valuation of $1.646 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate of almost 40 per cent during the forecast period.1
That is a
steep upward trajectory, even accounting for technical challenges to widespread adoption that might stand in the way.
EV charging times are just one aspect that could be improved by solid-state batteries (Source: 24K-Production/
stock.adobe.com)
Why solid-state batteries are causing a stir
The excitement about solid-state batteries lies partly with some of the shortcomings of existing rechargeable batteries used in a broad range of applications, such as mobile phones, laptops, and EVs. Technologies such as Li-ion have advanced rapidly in recent years but still have limitations.
Weight and capacity have been two of the most significant drawbacks. In electric cars, these constraints result in range anxiety, while for portable consumer devices, it means a bulkier design and inconvenient recharging.
In addition to weight and capacity, safety has also been an issue. The liquid electrolyte containing the lithium ions is highly volatile and flammable, which creates a possible risk of fire or explosion, particularly when exposed to high temperatures. Alternatives to traditional liquid electrolyte cells that offer higher energy densities and enhanced safety measures
28 December/January 2025
are required. That is where solid-state batteries come in. The fundamental differences in the underlying chemistry bring notable advantages in several key areas, as long as important technical challenges can be overcome.
Understanding solid-state battery chemistry
In a typical Li-ion cell, there are two solid electrodes—the cathode and the anode—a central separator that acts as a mechanical barrier, and the liquid Li-ion electrolyte. However, in a solid-state battery, a solid ceramic or polymer substrate serves as both the separator and electrolyte, effectively separating the cathode and the anode, typically consisting of pure lithium (Figure 1). Solid-state batteries can use several types of solid electrolytes, each with specific properties. Ceramic electrolytes, for example, offer high ionic conductivity and thermal stability, while sulphide electrolytes provide flexibility and
Components in Electronics
enhanced ionic movement. Using non- flammable solid electrolytes instead of the flammable liquid electrolytes in Li-ion batteries helps prevent risks like thermal runaway and electrolyte leakage. The shift in construction, coupled with incorporating a pure lithium anode, results in significantly enhanced energy densities. The potential of solid-state cells is as high as 11kWh/kg, but a more achievable value in the short term is around 1kWh/kg. This value surpasses the capabilities of current cells and could lead to a weight reduction of up to 30 per cent for the same capacity.2
Identifying potential solid-state applications
For design engineers, such technical advancement could make a world of difference. For example, in automotive applications, increasing the battery pack energy density can allow vehicle designers to reduce the total pack size, increase the vehicle’s payload, or help boost the range.
For commercial operators and private car owners, this could deliver sufficient cost or performance advantage to warrant switching from internal combustion engine-powered cars to EVs.
Solid-state batteries could also find use as an energy source for consumer electronics such as smartphones, laptops, and wearables. In each case, factors such as increased safety, higher energy density, longer lifespan, and improved design flexibility represent compelling reasons for change.
Other applications also come to the fore. The increasing digitisation of public spaces is seeing the widespread adoption of battery- powered Internet of Things (IoT)-based nodes in urban areas and industries. These networks are used for a broad range of activities, such as asset tracking, predictive maintenance, energy management, and smart city monitoring. Here, smaller, safer, longer-lasting batteries can enhance the performance and lower the cost of the IoT architecture, which in turn could open new business cases.
www.cieonline.co.uk
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