Researchers at the Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology (QIBEBT) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, along with collaborators from international institutions, have introduced a cathode homogenization strategy for all-solid-state lithium batteries (ASLBs).

Researchers have developed a solution: a cathode homogenization strategy utilizing a zero-strain material, Li_1.75Ti₂(Ge_0.25P_0.75S_3.8Se_0.2)₃, or (LTG_0.25PSSe_0.2). This material’s combined ionic and electronic conductivity ensures efficient charge transmission during (dis)charging without conductive additions. 

The LTG_0.25PSSe_0.2 material has shown a specific capacity of 250 mAh g^–1 and minimal volume change of just 1.2%. A homogeneous cathode made entirely of LTG_0.25PSSe_0.2 enables room-temperature ASLBs to achieve over 20,000 cycles of stable operation and a specific energy of 390 Wh kg⁻¹ at the cell level. The team plans to further explore the scalability of the material and its integration into practical battery systems.

“Our cathode homogenization strategy challenges the conventional heterogeneous cathode design,” said Dr. CUI Longfei, co-first author of the study, from the Solid Energy System Technology Center (SERGY) at QIBEBT. “By eliminating the need for inactive additives, we enhance energy density and extend the battery’s cycle life.”

Source: Chinese Academy of Sciences