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 agrees 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 energy density between 300 and 700Wh/l. TDK plans 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 newspaper Financial Times. As such batteries are scaled up, they become more fragile, according to Shang. According to the analyst, this is inherent to the materials used.

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