Japan’s battery makers join the race for all-solid-state technology

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Japan is aiming to regain its edge in the global battery market by developing all-solid-state batteries, which are expected to be safer, faster-charging, and more energy-dense than the conventional lithium-ion ones.

All-solid-state batteries use solid materials, such as ceramics or polymers, instead of liquid electrolytes to conduct ions between the positive and negative electrodes. This eliminates the risk of fire or explosion caused by leakage or short-circuiting of the liquid electrolytes, which have plagued some lithium-ion batteries in the past.

All-solid-state batteries also have the potential to increase the energy density and reduce the charging time of batteries, which are crucial factors for the performance and convenience of electric vehicles (EVs) and other applications. According to some estimates, all-solid-state batteries could achieve up to 1,000 Wh/L of energy density, compared to about 700 Wh/L for the current lithium-ion batteries. They could also reduce the charging time from hours to minutes.

Several Japanese companies, such as Toyota, Panasonic, and Toshiba, have been investing heavily in the research and development of all-solid-state batteries, hoping to commercialize them by the mid-2020s. They are also collaborating with other players in the battery value chain, such as materials suppliers and end-users, to overcome the technical and cost challenges of the new technology.

For instance, AGC, a leading glass manufacturer, and Idemitsu Kosan, a major oil refiner, have recently announced a joint venture to produce and sell ceramic electrolytes for all-solid-state batteries. The two companies claim that their ceramic electrolytes have high ionic conductivity and stability, and can be mass-produced at low cost.

Another example is the partnership between Toyota and Suzuki, two of Japan’s largest automakers, to jointly develop and supply all-solid-state batteries for their EVs. The two companies aim to leverage their respective strengths in battery technology and market presence, especially in India and other emerging markets, where the demand for EVs is expected to grow rapidly.

Japan’s push for all-solid-state batteries could have significant implications for the Japanese economy and the global battery market. Japan could regain its leading position in the battery industry by producing safer, faster-charging, and more energy-dense batteries than the conventional lithium-ion ones. This could boost the exports and revenues of Japanese battery makers and related industries, such as automotive, electronics, and renewable energy.

Japan could also foster a culture of innovation and collaboration among its battery stakeholders, including researchers, manufacturers, suppliers, and end-users. This could attract more investment and talent to the sector and create new opportunities for growth and development.

Japan could also contribute to the global efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change by promoting the use of clean energy sources and electrifying mobility and other applications. This could also enhance Japan’s reputation and influence as a responsible and environmentally conscious nation.


Source: Asia Nikkei 


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