CAS Develops Flexible Solid-State Battery Tech

The Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) has announced a breakthrough in solid-state battery tech that could shape the future of electric vehicles (EVs). 

Researchers at its Institute of Metal Research have developed a flexible solid-state lithium battery with stable current, high energy density, and strong durability. The secret lies in the use of special polymer molecules within its structure.

Solid-state batteries are seen as the next evolution in electric mobility. Unlike conventional lithium-ion batteries that use liquid electrolytes, solid-state versions rely on solid materials. This makes them safer and more powerful, with the potential to store more energy and reduce fire risks.

However, building them has proven challenging due to the poor connection between the solid electrode and electrolyte, which limits ion movement and reduces efficiency. The CAS team addressed this by introducing polymer molecules, ethoxy groups, and short sulfur chains that improve ion transport and energy storage.

The result is a flexible solid-state battery that can reach an energy density of up to 86%. It also shows remarkable flexibility, surviving 20,000 bends without performance loss. This durability could make it useful not only in electric vehicles but also in flexible or wearable electronics.

The discovery is still in the research stage and not yet ready for mass production. But as one of China’s most respected scientific institutions, CAS has drawn strong global attention with its findings.

Meanwhile, companies like Farasis Energy and Chery-backed Anhui Anwa New Energy have begun pilot production of their own designs. Farasis expects to deliver cells with 400 to 500 Wh/kg by the end of this year, while Anwa has produced engineering samples from its pilot line.

Most electric cars today still rely on liquid or semi-solid batteries, but the race toward solid-state technology is accelerating - bringing the industry closer to lighter, safer, and longer-lasting batteries for the next generation of electric vehicles.

Source: CarNewsChina