Battery technology is evolving day by day to power the future effectively. Lithium ion batteries have been offering a reliable source of power (for various devices like electronics and electric vehicles) for years. At the same time, current Li-ion batteries have certain limitations, such as range anxiety in electric vehicles and safety issues (flammable liquid electrolyte). Moreover, there are limitations on lifespan and charging speed.
But nowadays, there is a new contender in the market—solid state batteries. They promise to offer enhanced safety and higher energy density. Plus, they come with longer lifespans. All these factors help these batteries revolutionize the way energy is stored and used. But the question that arises here is, “Are solid state batteries the latest buzz in the market or are truly superior?”
This article compares solid state batteries vs lithium ion batteries, focusing on their applications, safety, cost, performance, and other similar parameters. This read also helps you choose the best battery from both options.
What Are Solid-State Batteries and How Do They Work?
Unlike other batteries that use gel or liquid electrolytes, solid state batteries utilize solid electrolytes. This significant shift in the energy storage department has offered many benefits, such as longer lifespan, improved safety, and higher energy density.
A solid state battery often uses lithium metal as an anode and lithium-containing compounds as the cathode. A solid material is used as an electrolyte (such as polymer, glass, or ceramic).
When you charge the battery, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode (it is usually a pure lithium metal) through the solid electrolyte. Lithium ions move inside while electrons flow through an external circuit to power up the attached device.
Similarly, when a solid state battery is discharged, lithium ions move back to the cathode from the anode through the electrolyte.
What Are Lithium-Ion Batteries and How Do They Work?
They are rechargeable batteries that are frequently used in various portable devices, including electric vehicles, laptops, and mobile devices. The reason behind the popularity of lithium-ion batteries is their rechargeable abilities, lightweight design, and higher energy density. You can easily recharge them hundreds of times.
Like any other battery, a lithium-ion battery has three main parts: anode, cathode, and electrolyte. The anode is built with graphite, a lithium metal oxide forms the cathode, and a gel or liquid is used as the electrolyte to allow for the movement of lithium ions between the anode and the cathode.
Lithium ions travel from the cathode to the anode through the electrolyte during the charging process. The electrons, at the same time, flow through the external circuit. The lithium ions move back to the cathode from the anode during the discharging process. When the electrons move through the external circuit, they power up the connected device.
Solid State Battery vs Lithium Ion: What's the Difference?
When comparing a solid state battery vs lithium ion battery, you will see one fundamental difference, i.e., the nature of the electrolyte. As the name suggests, solid state batteries have a solid electrolyte, whereas lithium-ion batteries have gel or liquid-based electrolytes.
This single difference has a direct impact on the different aspects of solid-state batteries. The table below shows different aspects of Li-ion and solid-state batteries.
| Feature | Solid State Battery | Lithium-Ion Battery |
| Electrolyte | Solid (polymer, glass, or ceramic) | Gel or liquid |
| Anode | Lithium metal | Graphite |
| Energy Density | High | Moderate |
| Safety | Much safer (no flammable liquids) | Risk of explosion, overheating, or fire |
| Charging Speed | 10 to 15 mins | 30 to 60 mins |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
| Cycle Life | 2,000 to 10,000 | 500 to 1,500 |
| Operating Temperature | Wide range (better in extreme conditions) | Narrower range |
| Applications | Future high-performance electronics, aerospace, and EVs | Grid storage, EVs, and consumer electronics |
Let's now explore each aspect one by one.
1. Safety
Lithium-ion batteries utilize a liquid electrolyte that may pose a risk of flammability and overheating. In contrast, solid state batteries reduce gas venting issues and reduce the risk of overheating with their non-flammable solid electrolyte. Moreover, they perform well in extreme temperatures.
2. Energy Density
The range of energy density for EV-based Li-ion batteries is between 160 Wh/kg and 250 Wh/kg. On the other hand, solid-state batteries have much higher density. The energy density of bulk-type batteries ranges between 250 Wh/kg and 500 Wh/kg, whereas thin-film type batteries offer energy density between 300 Wh/kg and 800 Wh/kg.
According to a recent research study, a new solid-state battery has achieved 450 Wh/kg of energy density. It is 40% lighter and 33% smaller in size than its lithium-ion alternative.
3. Charging
Li-ion batteries have moderate to fast charging capability. At the same time, they are sensitive to extreme temperatures. In contrast, solid state batteries support ultra-fast charging, which sets them apart. Some solid-state batteries hold 80% charge within minutes. Moreover, temperature fluctuations don't much affect the performance of these batteries.
4. Lifespan
Chemical reactions make Li-ion batteries degrade with time, which is why they have comparatively shorter lifespans. On the other hand, solid-state batteries offer longer lifespans. At the same time, they are currently experiencing crack formation challenges in the solid electrolyte when the battery charges or discharges. It increases resistance.
5. Physical Characteristics
Solid-state batteries are lighter and smaller, with higher energy densities. On the other hand, lithium-ion batteries are heavier and larger for the same capacity. Solid state batteries can be designed ultra-thin, whereas the design of Li-ion batteries can only be in pouch, prismatic, or cylindrical formats. Moreover, solid-state batteries are resistant to damage and are more stable mechanically, whereas Li-ion batteries are prone to leakage or swelling over time.
Solid-State vs Lithium-Ion: Which to Choose?
The comparison between solid-state battery vs lithium-ion shows that the selection purely depends on whether you want to evaluate batteries based on the future potential or your current needs. In terms of current needs, Li-ion batteries take the lead due to their unmatched performance, good safety, easy accessibility, and cost-effectiveness. However, solid state batteries are expected to have a greater future potential.
Li-ion batteries are considered a smart, practical choice for most users these days. The reason behind this fact is the proven performance, lower manufacturing cost, and established manufacturing, especially for applications like backup energy, RV power systems, solar storage, and marine use.
Renogy offers premium-quality lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) batteries. These advanced batteries are not only durable and safe but also optimized for off-grid living and renewable energy systems.
Solid state batteries may become the top choice for electric vehicles (EVs) in the future once the manufacturing and technical challenges are resolved. Until then, Li-ion batteries are the most accessible, long lasting, and dependable options.
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Final Thoughts
Solid state batteries are expected to take the battery technology and energy storage department to the next level. They offer a series of advantages over traditional lithium-ion batteries, e.g., longer lifespan, higher energy density, improved safety, and fast charging. Solid state batteries specifically take the lead for future applications, such as high-performance devices and electric vehicles.
Though solid state batteries continue to evolve, Li-ion batteries are the most practical and easily accessible choice today. They are backed by proven performance, mature manufacturing, and budget-friendly purchases. Renogy offers high-quality lithium batteries that deliver consistent power for various applications, including but not limited to mobile power setups, solar energy systems, and marine use.
For more details on solid state batteries vs lithium ion, make sure you read through the discussion above carefully.
FAQs about Solid State Batteries vs Lithium Ion
How much longer do solid-state batteries last?
In terms of shelf life, solid state batteries last for 10 to 20 years or even more. If we talk about cycle life, these batteries last for 2,000 to 10,000 cycles. It is very clear that solid state batteries last longer than Li-ion batteries in terms of both shelf life and cycle life.
Why are solid-state batteries safer?
Well, solid state batteries are safer than their lithium-ion counterparts due to various factors, including but not limited to improved performance in extreme conditions, lower risk of thermal runaway, no flammable liquid electrolyte, and resistance to dendrite formation.
How much faster can solid-state batteries charge?
The charging time mainly depends on factors like battery use, design, and chemistry. A traditional lithium-ion battery takes 30 to 60 minutes to charge fully. Whereas, a solid state battery can charge 2-6 times faster than a Li-ion battery, i.e., within 10 to 15 minutes.
Will solid-state batteries replace lithium-ion batteries entirely?
Though solid state batteries offer numerous advantages, they are unlikely to replace Li-ion batteries fully. This replacement seems impossible, at least in the near future. Both battery technologies are likely to coexist to serve different applications.
