Currently, the energy storage system is almost powered by lithium-ion batteries. In the next-generation batteries, the solid-state batteries can be an emerging star which can ensure high performance, low cost and high safety than Li-ion batteries. The technology is advancing quickly and could be commercially available in a few years.
What will be the future of solid-state batteries, would it be commercially viable to replace lithium-ion batteries in the coming years?
MetalGuru
Yes, the current advanced technology for battery energy storage system is lithium-ion batteries. But from the last few years, the solid-state battery market has progressed substantially.
Solid-state batteries are a technical paradigm shift. In modern lithium-ion batteries, the ion travels from one electrode towards the other across the liquid electrolyte. But in case of solid-state batteries, the liquid electrolytes are replaced with strong compounds though it permits the movement of lithium ions within it. The design of solid-state batteries is pursued by many of its potential advantages over lithium-ion batteries such as high energy density, high charging speed, improved safety and durability.
In recent years, the adoption of battery electric vehicles has risen sharply. Till now lithium-ion batteries have driven by the EVs market. However, there is now more startup working on solid-state batteries, which has support from various automotive giants. It is believed that solid-state batteries can provide more than 500 miles of range for a vehicle.
Major car manufacturers such as Ford, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen and some Chinese EV companies are investing in solid-state battery research.
It is expected that by 2020, solid-state EV with battery power could reach the market if Toyota fulfils its objectives. Nonetheless, between 2022 and 2025, many automakers are planning to enter the solid-state battery market.
Various types of solid-state batteries would possibly become available as the technology develops. It can be graphite-based batteries that provide improved energy efficiency and safety or can be lighter solid-state battery technology using a metallic lithium anode.
Haseeb
If solid-state batteries meet the expectations, the technology will change the automotive market significantly.
There is some pessimism about the commercial viability of solid-state batteries due to potential low-temperature problems. The physical restrictions of the solid electrolyte are less conductive than the liquid electrolyte.
The conductivity is also dependent on temperature, so the energy density of solid-state batteries can be decreased further compared to current Li-ion batteries at cold temperature.