Solid-state battery

A solid-state battery is a novel battery technology in which the liquid electrolyte is replaced by a solid electrolyte. It is considered a potential successor to lithium-ion technology — with advantages in terms of safety, energy density, and service life.

How it works

As in conventional batteries, ions move between the anode and cathode during charging and discharging.

In a solid-state battery, however, this transport takes place through a solid electrolyte, usually based on ceramic or polymer materials.

This eliminates flammable liquids, which reduces the risk of fire or short circuits.

In addition, solid-state technology makes it possible to use metallic lithium as the anode, which can significantly increase energy density.

Typical applications (future)

• Electric vehicles with longer range and faster charging
• Stationary battery storage systems with high cycle requirements
• Applications with increased safety requirements (e.g. buildings, tunnels)
• Potential integration into Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) as soon as the technology reaches market maturity
• Long-term: second-life use in stationary energy systems

Key figures

• Energy density: potentially up to 50–100% higher than current lithium-ion systems
• Cycle life: target of more than 10,000 cycles without significant loss of performance
• Temperature stability: operation may be possible at both higher and lower temperatures
• Charging time: potential for significantly shorter charging cycles
• Market maturity: first pilot applications from around 2025, broad availability not expected before 2027 at the earliest

Summary

Solid-state batteries are regarded as a key technology for the next generation of energy storage. They promise improvements in energy density, charging speed, fire safety, and service life.

Although they are still under development, their future use in electric mobility, stationary energy storage, and safety-critical applications is considered highly promising.