High Voltage Sulfide Based All Solid-State Batteries Enable by Bipolar Stacking

Source: RareStock/ Adobe Stock 529931563

Background

The pursuit of more efficient energy storage has led to the development of All Solid-State Batteries (ASLBs). ASLBs are proposed as a safer, more efficient alternative to traditional lithium-ion batteries, addressing issues of safety, energy density, and lifecycle. The demand for higher energy storage capacity batteries, particularly for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage, underscores the need for further improvements in ASLB technology. Current approaches to ASLB production, such as conventional stacking techniques, have limitations. These methods often yield inferior energy density and voltage results due to less efficient utilization of the materials and sub-optimal cell structures. The need for enhanced performance and energy density in ASLBs is a significant challenge that this technology seeks to address.

Technology Overview

Northeastern researchers have created bipolar stacked ASLBs using uniquely integrated cathode, electrolyte, and anode layers. Each layer’s seamless assembly is done through a vacuum filtration method attributed to the excellent compatibility between the involved materials. The inclusion of a stainless-steel foil as the current collector for both the cathode and anode completes the advanced design of this ASLB, resulting in a product boasting high voltage and increased energy density. What sets this technology apart is its successful implementation of a bipolar stacking design in ASLB. This unique design has resulted in batteries that deliver a high voltage of 8.2 V. When compared to ASLBs using a conventional stacking method, there is a clear enhancement in energy density. These ASLBs have a cell-level energy density of 204 Wh kg-1, significantly higher than the 189 Wh kg-1 exhibited by conventionally stacked ASLBs. This promising technology opens up new possibilities for the implementation of bipolar designs in ASLBs, increasing battery efficiency and overall performance.

Benefits

Increased energy density and voltage over conventionally stacked ASLBs
Improved safety over traditional liquid electrolyte lithium-ion batteries
Potential for longer battery lifespan due to superior material usage
Greater flexibility and robustness from the freestanding, layered assembly

Applications

Electric vehicles - Can enhance the driving range and battery life due to increased energy density
Renewable energy storage - Improved storage potential can better handle intermittent energy supply
Portable electronic devices - Can enhance the battery life of smartphones, laptops, etc., and improve safety
Grid energy storage - Capable of managing peak energy demands more efficiently
Power backup and emergency systems - Can provide longer operation times during outages