聚合物基固态电池：产业化破局的现实路径

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the challenges and advancements in the commercialization of solid-state batteries, particularly focusing on polymer-based solid-state batteries as a more viable option compared to inorganic solid-state batteries [36][38]. Group 1: Current Challenges in Solid-State Battery Development - The Chinese Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology established a 6 billion yuan fund to accelerate solid-state battery technology, but sample submission has been delayed and testing results are not promising [2]. - Key issues identified include safety concerns where some solid-state batteries perform worse than high-end liquid lithium batteries [3], engineering pressures due to the need for high pressure to maintain solid-solid interface contact [4], and cost-performance imbalance where energy density improvements are minimal compared to significantly higher costs [5]. Group 2: Advantages of Polymer-Based Solid-State Batteries - Polymer-based solid-state batteries have shown significant improvements in ion conductivity, with room temperature ion conductivity now exceeding 10⁻³ S·cm⁻¹ [12]. - The electrochemical stability window has been effectively expanded, allowing compatibility with high-voltage cathodes, with advanced polymer systems achieving stability beyond 5V [13]. - The unique interface adaptability of polymer electrolytes allows for stable operation without the need for external high pressure, significantly reducing interface resistance compared to inorganic solid-state electrolytes [17]. - Polymer electrolytes are highly compatible with existing lithium-ion battery production processes, requiring minimal modifications and thus lowering capital investment risks [19]. - Over 90% of the raw materials for polymer systems can be sourced from existing chemical supply chains, avoiding reliance on scarce strategic metals, which supports rapid and cost-effective large-scale production [22]. Group 3: Systemic Challenges of Inorganic Solid-State Electrolytes - Inorganic solid-state electrolytes face severe challenges, including the need for revolutionary manufacturing processes and high production costs, with sulfide electrolytes costing approximately 50 times more than polymer systems [26][29]. - The supply chain for inorganic materials is still in its infancy, requiring extensive development time that does not align with the fast-paced industry [27]. - Inherent safety risks associated with inorganic electrolytes, such as thermal instability and brittleness, pose significant barriers to their commercialization [30][33]. Group 4: Commercialization Pathways - The commercialization pathway for polymer systems is characterized by gradual improvements that align well with existing industry ecosystems, facilitating smooth upgrades [34]. - In contrast, inorganic systems require a complete overhaul of infrastructure and supply chains, leading to higher capital investments and longer timelines for market readiness [38]. - Polymer-based solid-state batteries are projected to achieve large-scale commercial application by 2026, providing a reliable technological foundation for the transition to electric vehicles and energy transformation [37].