Maxell, a Japanese electronics company, is planning to mass produce the world's first high-power, all-solid-state batteries for industrial machines, according to Nikkei Asia.
(Photo : Tomohiro Ohsumi/Getty Images)
TOKYO, JAPAN - OCTOBER 09: Asahi Kasei Corp. honorary fellow Akira Yoshino holds a model of a lithium-ion battery during a press conference on October 9, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan.
The batteries are the alternative to lithium-ion batteries used for industrial robots. These batteries contain solid electrolytes instead of liquid or polymer electrolytes that can be found in lithium-ion batteries.
The all-solid-state batteries come with three times the energy density and are much safer. However, they are costlier to make, so mass production has been limited to small sizes used in wearable devices.
Keeping Manufacturing Costs Down
Fortunately, Maxell has found a way to keep the production of all-solid-state batteries low by using a sulfide-based model for its industrial batteries. This delivers more power compared to oxide-based batteries.
The Japanese-based company will spend 2 billion yen to build its production line at a plant in Oyamazaki. They are also in talks with several makers of factory automation equipment on potential supply deals.
The Use of the Batteries
The new batteries will be used for articulated robots with arms that move parts on an assembly line. Maxell aims for 30 million yen in related revenue in fiscal 2030.
Also Read: Hitachi Zosen Solid-State Battery Debuts in Japan- Answer for Battery-Powered Spacecraft?
High Hopes for the All-Solid State Batteries
Japan took an early lead in bringing lithium-ion batteries to the mass market, and now they have hopes for all-solid-state batteries. Toyota Motor and Panasonic Holdings are leading it, yet South Korea's Samsung Electronics and LG Chem are catching up fast.
High-power batteries are important for electric vehicles, which are growing in popularity today.
Japan's TDK and Murata Manufacturing are some of the makers of all-solid-state batteries for small devices and wearables.
All-solid-state batteries are safer and more powerful than typical lithium-ion batteries. They can have higher energy density while being more resilient to heat and shock. They also have longer charge cycles and faster charge times.
As the demand for electric vehicles, wearables, and other small devices increases, manufacturers are looking to all-solid-state batteries to provide longer battery life in these products.
All solid-state batteries have higher energy density while also able to withstand greater temperatures and shock without damaging or depleting their charge cycles quickly.
Additionally, faster charging times mean shorter periods between charges making them even more attractive for consumers who need long-lasting performance from their electronics.
Overall, the all-solid-state battery technology is expected to revolutionize how we use electric vehicles and other devices. It could also have major implications for the renewable energy industry since they are more efficient and environmentally friendly. If things go according to plan, we could see a better way to power industrial robots and EVs.
Related Article: Panasonic powers up with CG-320 battery: A really tiny lithium ion battery ideal for wearables
