The quest for the holy grail of solid-state lithium batteries

Tremendous improvements in the Li+ conductivity of inorganic solid electrolytes over the past 15 years have renewed interest in developing solid state batteries, with a particular focus on realizing the lithium metal anode. Despite initial hopes, solid electrolytes pressed against flat lithium metal anodes have so far been unable to mitigate the penetration of the solid electrolyte by lithium dendrites. Our understanding of how lithium dendrites grow through solid electrolytes has also evolved. Based on the current literature, it appears that the root cause of lithium penetration is the low self-diffusion of Li-0, coupled with lithium plating/stripping hot spots. Many different approaches to mitigate lithium penetration have been attempted. Some approaches, in particular, may warrant deeper insight, such as high-surface-area substrates for lithium deposition, lithium-alloys and artificial SEIs. Separately from the challenges of lithium metal, solid-state cathodes must contend with crack formation due to the expansion and contraction of the active material. Soft electrolytes, such as composite electrolytes, may be able to somewhat alleviate this. Herein we explain the challenges facing solid state cells, the attempts that have been made to mitigate them and our opinion of the most promising routes to success.

Automated summary

Over the past 15 years, significant advancements in the Li+ conductivity of inorganic solid electrolytes have rekindled interest in solid state batteries, specifically with the aim of realizing the lithium metal anode. However, the problem of lithium dendrite penetration through solid electrolytes still persists. Recent research suggests that the low self-diffusion rate of Li-0, along with lithium plating/stripping hot spots, is the primary cause of lithium penetration. Various approaches have been attempted to mitigate this issue. Additionally, solid-state cathodes face challenges related to crack formation due to the expansion and contraction of the active material. Soft electrolytes, such as composite electrolytes, may offer some relief. This article explores the challenges faced by solid state cells, the attempted solutions, and the most promising paths towards success.