New Battery for Electric Cars Could be Safer and Offer Better Performance
Researchers at Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have unveiled a groundbreaking solid-state battery design that promises to significantly enhance the performance and safety of electric vehicles (EVs). This innovative battery technology, detailed in a recent study, features flexible and durable sheets of solid-state electrodes just 30 micrometers thick, about the width of a human hair. The new design could double the energy density of current EV batteries to 500 watt-hours per kilogram, potentially extending EV ranges substantially. This advancement addresses the limitations of existing lithium-ion batteries, which, despite their advancements, still fall short in terms of energy density and safety.
The ORNL-developed solid-state batteries overcome previous durability and scalability issues by using a polymer to create a “strong yet springy thin film” that maintains high ion conductivity. This makes the new battery not only more efficient but also safer compared to traditional liquid-electrolyte lithium-ion batteries, which are prone to volatility and hazardous fires. The next phase of development will focus on practical testing and collaboration with industry partners to bring this technology to market. If successful, these batteries could revolutionize the EV industry, offering increased range and enhanced safety features.
