Abstract Title: Advancing Safe and High-Energy Solid-State Batteries with Silicon Anodes: A Focus on Low-Pressure Cycling

With the global adoption of electric vehicles accelerating, the need for advancements in lithium-ion battery (LIB) technology to support long driving ranges and enhanced safety is paramount. Current innovations often involve incorporating silicon into traditional LIB cells or transitioning to lithium metal cells with liquid or gel electrolytes. While these strategies aim to achieve high energy densities, they present significant safety challenges due to the flammability of the electrolytes and the potential for thermal runaway. Solid-state batteries (SSBs) offer a promising alternative by integrating non-flammable electrolytes, improving both energy density and safety. While lithium metal anodes in SSBs provide high energy density, the risk of dendrite formation and consequent cell shorting remains a critical concern. To address this, silicon-based anodes paired with solid electrolytes emerge as a safer alternative, delivering high energy density without compromising reliability. Blue Current’s research focuses on advancing SSBs with silicon anodes through three performance vectors. First, achieving the highest silicon content maximizes energy density. Second, ensuring excellent cycling performance at low operational pressures minimizes additional packaging requirements. Third, maintaining high thermal stability of battery materials ensures safety under extreme conditions. This presentation will highlight the cycling performance of SSBs featuring NMC cathodes and silicon-based anodes under low-pressure operation, showcasing their potential for high-efficiency, safer energy storage solutions.