Solid-state batteries

Source-This post on Solid-state batteries has been created based on the article “Toyota fast charges its solid-state battery plans; may spawn 2 BEV ranges” published in “The Indian Express” on 29 January 2024.

Why in the news?

Japan’s Toyota Motor Corp, a late entrant into the battery electric vehicle race, aims to roll out next-generation solid-state batteries over the next three year.

About Solid-state batteries

These batteries use solid electrodes and a solid electrolyte, instead of the liquid or polymer gel electrolytes used in lithium-ion batteries.

How does it work?

Solid-state batteries have almost the same mechanism as lithium-ion batteries for extracting electricity from the batteries.

Metal is used as the material for the electrodes, and electrical flow is generated by ions moving through the electrolyte between the cathode and anode.

The big difference is that the electrolyte is solid whereas in lithium-ion batteries electrolyte is liquid. Thus, in these batteries there is no need of separator unlike lithium-ion batteries.

Application of solid state batteries

Solid-state batteries are potentially useful in pacemakers, RFIDs, wearable devices, and electric vehicles.

Advantages of solid-state batteries over lithium-ion batteries

1) A solid-state battery has higher energy density than a Lithium-ion.

2) It doesn’t have a risk of explosion or fire. There is no need to have components for safety, and thus it saves more space

3) Longer Lifespan- Solid-state batteries can last longer than traditional lithium-ion batteries due to their improved stability.

Limitation

1) Cost- Manufacturing solid-state batteries are currently more expensive than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This has made them less accessible to everyday consumers.

2) Performance Challenges- Solid-state batteries currently have some performance challenges such as limited cycle life, poor cold weather performance, and a high internal resistance that reduces their power output.

3) Unproven Technology- Solid-state batteries are still under development, and more research is required to address their shortcomings and make them a commercially viable option for electric cars.

UPSC Syllabus-Science & Technology