Scientists at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) have developed a revolutionary new solid-state battery technology that could double the energy density in electric vehicles (EVs). The innovative design, which relies on flexible and durable sheets of solid-state electrodes, could give EVs a much greater range, potentially exceeding 500 miles per charge.
The current liquid electrolyte lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries used in most EVs have a maximum energy density of around 250 watt-hours per kilogram. However, the new technology could push that limit to 500 watt-hours per kilogram, allowing for much longer driving distances without the need for recharging.
The ORNL researchers overcame the challenges of creating durable and scalable solid-state batteries by using a polymer to create a “strong yet springy thin film” that provides high-energy storage while minimizing the use of conductive materials. This innovative approach could lead to safer and more performant EVs, as the new technology is non-volatile, eliminating the risk of fires.
The development of this new battery technology has the potential to transform the electric vehicle industry, offering improved performance, increased range, and enhanced safety features. With further testing and development, this groundbreaking innovation could revolutionize the way we travel in electric vehicles.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/technology/electric-vehicles/springy-solid-state-battery-is-twice-the-width-of-a-white-blood-cell-and-could-drastically-increase-ev-range