TDK claims breakthrough with solid state batteries

The Japanese company TDK claims to have made a breakthrough in the development of small solid-state batteries. The company says it has developed a material that makes it possible to make batteries with an energy density of 1000Wh/l. The company says in a press release that the technology could be used to replace button cell batteries. These are the small, disc-shaped batteries used in watches, calculators and hearing aids. Current lithium ion batteries have an energy density between 300 and 700Wh/l. TDK wants to send samples to customers next year and then hopes to start mass production.

However, the technology is not suitable for larger batteries, such as those used in electric cars or smartphones. Kevin Shang, senior research analyst at data company Wood Mackenzie, told the Financial Times newspaper. As such batteries are scaled up, they become more fragile, according to Shang. According to the analyst, this is inherent to the materials used in it.

A solid state battery is a type of rechargeable battery in which the electrolyte consists entirely of solid material, as opposed to traditional batteries where liquid or gel electrolytes are used. The benefits include higher energy density and improved safety due to the absence of flammable liquids. The disadvantages are currently even higher production costs and challenges in extending service life.