Summary
- EV batteries have been utilizing liquid-electrolyte technology since the early 2000s, but a shift to solid-state ceramic technology is needed for cost reduction and improved performance
- ProLogium is a Taiwanese company leading the commercialization of EV batteries with ceramic electrolytes, recently achieving a certification for industry-leading energy density
- ION Storage Systems in the US is another company focusing on ceramic EV batteries, receiving investments and grants for commercial deployment
- McGill University researchers are working on improving ceramic EV batteries by replacing dense ceramic plates with porous plates filled with polymer for enhanced performance
- The shift towards solid and semi-solid ceramic EV batteries is gaining momentum, with advancements in energy density and potential applications in various sectors
Article
EV battery technology has been stagnant since the early 2000s, relying on liquid-electrolyte technology with some incremental improvements. To truly lower the cost of electric vehicles and compete with gas-powered cars, a new approach to battery design is necessary. Solid-state ceramic technology is seen as the potential solution, replacing the flammable liquid electrolyte with a stable solid material to improve safety and environmental impact.
In recent years, the development of solid-state batteries has gained traction, with innovations such as glass electrolytes paving the way for more advancements. Taiwanese company ProLogium is at the forefront of commercializing EV batteries with ceramic electrolytes. Their next-generation lithium ceramic battery recently received certification from TÜV Rheinland for its industry-leading energy density. These batteries offer higher performance, longer range, and improved energy efficiency compared to emerging technologies like lithium-iron-phosphate and nickel-manganese-cobalt formulas.
ProLogium’s latest battery certification marks a significant achievement in the industry, surpassing their own forecasts for energy density improvements. The company’s R&D efforts over 18 years and key breakthroughs like a separator-free ceramic layer have played a crucial role in this success. ProLogium teases further innovations to be revealed at CES 2025, indicating ongoing advancements in solid-state battery technology.
In parallel, startup Ion Storage Systems in the US is also making strides in developing ceramic electrolyte separators for EV batteries. Partnerships with leading materials specialists and investments from Toyota Ventures and ARPA-E’s SCALEUP program are propelling their technology towards commercial deployment. Ion’s technology promises improved safety, energy density, and suitability for high-temperature and fire-sensitive applications, attracting interest from defense and aerospace sectors.
The push towards better EV batteries is not just about improving energy density but also addressing cost, manufacturability, and supply chain considerations. Researchers at McGill University have proposed methods to enhance the performance of ceramic EV batteries through innovative approaches like using polymer-filled porous membranes. These developments aim to create stable interfaces for high-voltage operation and further optimize battery performance.
The evolution of EV batteries from the early days of lead-acid batteries in the 1990s to the current dominance of lithium-ion batteries reflects a continuous quest for innovation in energy storage. Solid-state ceramic batteries offer a promising alternative to traditional liquid electrolyte batteries, with potential benefits in safety, performance, and cost-effectiveness. As companies like ProLogium and Ion Storage Systems drive advancements in battery technology, the future looks bright for the electrification of transport and energy storage sectors.
Read the full article here
