US firm’s all-solid-state EV battery breakthrough offers more energy density, longer range

US-based battery tech firm Microvast has achieved a milestone in the development of its True All-Solid-State Battery (ASSB) technology.

“This advancement represents a key step forward in improving safety, energy density, and efficiency for critical applications,” said the company in a press release.

It could lead to EVs with longer driving ranges, faster charging times, and improved safety.

This technology differs significantly from traditional lithium-ion batteries that rely on liquid electrolytes. Microvast’s ASSB technology employs a bipolar stacking architecture and a proprietary all-solid electrolyte separator membrane.

This design eliminates the safety hazards and energy density constraints associated with liquid electrolytes. It allows a single battery cell to achieve significantly higher voltages and simplifies the overall system architecture.

Higher voltage capabilities

“Traditional lithium-ion and semi solid-state batteries, constrained by the limitations of liquid electrolytes, typically operate at nominal voltages of 3.2V to 3.7V per cell,” highlighted the company.

However, Microvast’s ASSB technology can achieve dozens of volts or even higher in a single cell, depending on the specific application requirements.

“The absence of liquid electrolytes ensures our batteries can operate at voltages unattainable by conventional designs, underscoring the transformative potential of our technology,” explained Dr. Wenjuan Mattis, CTO of Microvast

This is a feat unattainable by any battery containing liquid electrolytes, as they would decompose under such high voltages.

This higher voltage capability is made possible by the elimination of liquid electrolytes and the use of Microvast’s proprietary all-solid separator. This separator, based on an advanced polyaramid material, is non-porous and specifically designed for solid-state applications.

“This separator ensures excellent ionic conductivity, structural stability, and long-term durability, addressing one of the most critical technical challenges in solid-state battery technology,” added the press release.

Simplified battery design system

The bipolar design also simplifies the overall battery system.

“This bipolar design significantly reduces the number of interconnections between cells, modules, and packs. This simplifies the overall system architecture and enhances both energy efficiency and operational safety,” asserted the company.

Notably, Microvast’s solid-state batteries can be tailor-made to meet the specific energy and spatial requirements of various applications, particularly in EVs, advanced robotic systems, and AI-driven technologies.

“Our bipolar architecture, combined with our proprietary all-solid separator, not only simplifies battery design, but also enhances energy density and operational safety,” remarked Dr. Mattis.

“This flexibility in cell design empowers us to address emerging applications in fields such as advanced robotics and compact energy systems.”

Pilot production

Microvast is currently transitioning to the pilot production study phase to further develop and scale its ASSB technology. This phase will focus on overcoming the unique manufacturing challenges associated with solid-state batteries.

“Our solid-state battery innovation represents a significant leap forward in addressing real-world safety and efficiency challenges,” concluded Yang Wu, CEO of Microvast.

“By developing a technology that eliminates liquid electrolytes and prioritizes scalability, we are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of industries requiring reliable and safe energy storage solutions.”