A Belgian company has developed a prototype solid-state battery with an energy density 25 per cent higher than the best lithium-ion batteries

Imec, a Belgium-based, EU-backed company, has unveiled a prototype solid-state battery with an energy density of 1,070Wh/L, 25 per cent higher than the best lithium-ion batteries.

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This breakthrough is achieved by using "liquid-to-solid solidification", where the solid electrolyte consists of a doped polymerised ionic liquid. The battery has a composite cathode and a thin lithium-metal anode, making it compact and efficient. The production process takes place at room temperature and adapts to current lithium-ion battery lines, reducing the cost to €150 per kWh.

The prototype charges in 3 hours and can withstand up to 100 charge cycles, although these figures require improvement for industrial applications. Despite the need for further scaling, solid-state batteries promise improved energy density, shorter charging times and improved safety at a lower price.

Source: Engadget