A new review published by the University of California, Riverside in the journal Nano Energy explains that solid-state batteries are poised to transform everything from electric vehicles to consumer electronics, representing a major leap forward in energy storage.
Compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries, solid-state batteries offer significant advantages. Their charging time is much shorter — while conventional batteries take 30 to 45 minutes to reach 80% charge, solid-state batteries can reduce this to 12 minutes, and in some cases, as little as 3 minutes. They also operate at lower temperatures and can store more energy in a smaller space.
Solid-state batteries replace the flammable liquid electrolyte found in standard batteries with safer and more efficient solid materials. Traditional lithium-ion batteries rely on liquid to move lithium ions, but the liquid degrades over time, limiting charging speed and posing fire risks. Solid-state batteries use solid materials to provide a safer and more stable environment for lithium-ion movement, resulting in faster charging, higher efficiency, and fewer safety concerns.
The solid material inside solid-state batteries is the solid-state electrolyte. The review focuses on three main types: sulfide-based, oxide-based, and polymer-based electrolytes. Each type has its own advantages — some allow ions to move faster, while others offer better long-term stability or are easier to manufacture. One standout sulfide-based electrolyte performs almost as well as the liquid electrolytes in current batteries, but without their drawbacks.
The researchers also introduced tools for real-time observation of battery operation. Techniques such as neutron imaging and high-energy X-rays allow researchers to observe the internal movement of lithium during charging and discharging, helping identify where lithium gets stuck and where "dendrites" begin to grow. "Dendrites" are tiny needle-like structures that can cause short circuits or battery failure. Ozkan described these imaging tools as the battery's equivalent of an MRI, enabling people to monitor the battery's vital signs and make smarter design choices.
Solid-state batteries can also utilize lithium more efficiently. Many designs incorporate a lithium metal layer, which can store more energy in a smaller space compared to the graphite layers used in current batteries, making the batteries lighter, smaller, and capable of powering devices for longer periods. While traditional lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles show noticeable performance decline after about 5 to 8 years of use, solid-state batteries can last 15 to 20 years or longer, depending on usage and environmental factors.
Ozkan noted that although traditional lithium-ion batteries have been revolutionary, their performance and safety limits are being reached as electric vehicles and renewable energy grids become increasingly widespread and demanding. Solid-state batteries may also play a key role in future interstellar travel and space exploration. Their thermal and chemical stability makes them better suited to withstand the extreme temperatures and radiation conditions of outer space, allowing them to store more power in a smaller space and operate more reliably in enclosed, controlled oxygen environments.
However, large-scale production of solid-state batteries remains difficult and costly. The review proposes a roadmap to address these challenges, including developing better materials, improving interactions between battery components, and advancing factory techniques to simplify production. Ozkan stated that solid-state batteries are moving closer to reality every day, and this review showcases the progress science has made and the next steps needed to bring these batteries into everyday use.
