US breakthrough decodes solid-state EV battery puzzle for higher range

The researchers used a sophisticated imaging technique, 4D STEM, to examine the atomic structure.

a day ago

2 days ago

4 hours ago

6 hours ago

8 hours ago

9 hours ago

10 hours ago

Aman Tripathi

Solid-state batteries, using solid instead of flammable liquid, could make electric vehicles safer and better.

University of Missouri

Researchers at the University of Missouri (Mizzou) have tackled a long-standing challenge in the development of solid-state batteries.

Solid-state batteries, which replace the flammable liquid electrolyte found in traditional lithium-ion batteries with a solid material, offer a promising solution to the safety and performance limitations of current technology.

However, a major obstacle has been the formation of an interphase layer at the interface between the solid electrolyte and the cathode.

“When the solid electrolyte touches the cathode, it reacts and forms an interphase layer that’s about 100 nanometers thick — 1,000 times smaller than the width of a single human hair,” explained Assistant Professor Matthias Young, who led the research team.

“This layer blocks the lithium ions and electrons from moving easily, increasing resistance and hurting battery performance.”

The Missouri researchers employed a cutting-edge technique known as four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM).

“Using four-dimensional scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D STEM), the researchers examined the atomic structure of the battery without taking it apart — a revolutionary breakthrough for the field,” said Young.

By examining the intricate details of the battery’s internal workings, the researchers were able to pinpoint the interphase layer as the primary culprit behind the performance degradation.

The team is now focused on developing innovative strategies to mitigate the negative effects of the interphase layer.

One promising approach involves the use of thin-film materials to create protective coatings that can shield the solid electrolyte and cathode from unwanted reactions. These coatings must be carefully engineered to be both thin enough to allow for efficient ion transport and thick enough to provide adequate protection.

“The coatings need to be thin enough to prevent reactions but not so thick that they block lithium-ion flow,” highlighted Young.

“We aim to maintain the high-performance characteristics of the solid electrolyte and cathode materials. Our goal is to use these materials together without sacrificing their performance for the sake of compatibility.”

The solid-state battery landscape has witnessed several developments.

Recently, a team of Chinese and German researchers made a significant breakthrough in lithium-sulfur battery technology. They have developed a battery that offers 25,000 charge cycles with 80% capacity retention.

Meanwhile, leading automakers have also been making big strides. In the latest development, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled the “world’s first” electric vehicle that is powered by solid-state batteries.

In another development, Toyota has worked on a new type of cathode material for all-solid-state batteries, which promises to double the range of EVs.

Now, by addressing the fundamental challenges associated with solid-state batteries, the Mizzou research team aims to create safer, more efficient, and longer-lasting energy storage solutions.

“This carefully engineered approach at the nanoscale level will help ensure these materials work together seamlessly — making solid-state batteries one step closer to reality,” concluded the team in a press release.

The team’s groundbreaking study has the potential to benefit a wide range of industries, from electronics to electric vehicles.

Aman Tripathi An active and versatile journalist and news editor. He has covered regular and breaking news for several leading publications and news media, including The Hindu, Economic Times, Tomorrow Makers, and many more. Aman holds expertise in politics, travel, and tech news, especially in AI, advanced algorithms, and blockchain, with a strong curiosity about all things that fall under science and tech.

Stay up-to-date on engineering, tech, space, and science news with The Blueprint.

By clicking sign up, you confirm that you accept this site's Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

a day ago

Aman Tripathi