Korea’s battery industry is rapidly advancing its technological development towards the commercialization of solid-state batteries, the next generation of cells. By replacing the liquid electrolytes traditionally used between the cathode and anode with solid materials, these batteries promise unparalleled safety and performance.
On Oct. 3, sources from the battery industry reported that SK on has recently achieved a collaborative breakthrough by developing a solid oxide electrolyte with the world’s highest lithium-ion conductivity. This research on the oxide-based solid electrolyte, co-developed with Professor Park Hee-Jung’s research team from Dankook University’s Department of New Materials Engineering, was featured as a cover article in the international academic journal “Advanced Functional Materials.” Both domestic and international patent applications have been completed.
Researchers improved lithium-ion conductivity by 70% compared to existing solutions. This conductivity relates to the speed of lithium-ion movement within the electrolyte, and faster movement means increased battery output and rapid charging.
This developed solid electrolyte can be applied to SK on’s in-progress polymer-oxide composite batteries. When applied to batteries, it reportedly meets both the fire safety and long-distance driving requirements for electric vehicles, according to the company.
SK on is working on two types of solid-state batteries, those with polymer-oxide composites and those with sulfide systems. The goal is to produce an early-phase prototype by 2026 and achieve commercialization by 2028.
Samsung SDI has set up a pilot line for solid-state batteries called the “S-Line” within its Suwon research center earlier this year. The S-Line has introduced new techniques and infrastructure, including exclusive electrode plates for solid-state cells and equipment for solid electrolyte processes, along with facilities for seamless ion transfer within the cells.
Last June Samsung SDI began production of developmental prototypes of solid-state batteries. Production of prototypes for customers is also set to start within this year. Discussions are underway to have them fitted into demo vehicles from automotive manufacturers. The company plans to develop large cell production technology for solid-state batteries by 2025, with mass production slated for 2027.
Samsung SDI is also working on a sulfide-based solid-state battery. Their unique technology, which improves lifespan using a solid electrolyte material combined with lithium anode material, called “anode-free” technology, stands out as a key strength.
LG Energy Solution is adopting a strategy to concurrently develop polymer and sulfide-based solid-state batteries. The company aims to mass-produce a polymer-based cell, which is technically less challenging, by 2026 and commercialize the sulfide-based cell after 2030.
In a bid to secure core technology for next-generation batteries, LG Energy Solution has established joint research centers with universities and institutions both locally and abroad. The research team led by top solid-state battery authority Professor Shirley Meng from the University of California, San Diego, co-developed a “room-temperature long-life solid-state battery” with LG Energy Solution in 2021. Previously, solid-state batteries had a technical limitation, requiring temperatures above 60°C for charging. However, this team developed a technology that allows rapid charging at room temperature. Their research was published in the science journal “Science.”