Depending on the technology being talked about, there are already solid-state batteries being commercialized and they could enable a US$8 billion dollar business opportunity in 2033, according to IDTechEx’s report “Solid-State and Polymer Batteries 2023-2033: Technology, Forecasts, Players”.
What Are Next After Lithium-ion Batteries
Since their invention in the 1990s, lithium-ion batteries have become increasingly popular due to their relatively light weight, compact size, long life span and high energy density.
Fundamentally, a Li-ion cell typically consists of a graphite anode and a layered oxide cathode coated onto current collectors, separated by an organic liquid electrolyte-soaked separator. Packaged in pouch, prismatic or cylindrical formats, they form the basis of Li-ion battery packs. Their comparatively high performance, low cost and wide availability make Li-ion batteries pre-eminent energy storage technology for many applications, from electronic devices to electric vehicles (EVs), to large stationary energy storage systems. As such, for most applications, Li-ion batteries, in one form or another, are unlikely to be superseded within the next ten years. Nevertheless, due to their performance limitations, and environmental and supply chain considerations, developments and innovations continue to be made for the next-generation battery technologies.
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IDTechEx researches energy storage topics from various angles, from materials, cell technologies, targeting applications and how to deal with them at the end of their lives. Both advanced lithium-ion technologies and alternatives have attracted tremendous attention. Among them, solid-state batteries, which are based on solid-state electrolyte innovations, have led to increasing discussions and continuous investment. As an innovation in the electrolyte, solid-state batteries can also work with other innovations such as lithium metal, silicon anode, high-voltage cathodes, new cell designs, dry manufacturing, etc.
Transition of Effort Focuses
Numerous press releases have been seen on the progress of solid-state batteries and electric vehicle prototypes equipped with solid-state batteries. It seems that the focus on solid-state batteries will mainly be battery cells. However, this will only be part of the future focuses. IDTechEx have seen that the development focuses have experienced a transition from material development & cell demonstration to cell validation and system design. Examples include cell to pack (CTP) design and thermal management systems.
SOURCE: PR Newswire