Industry Overview - The solid-state battery industry is gaining significant attention from market funds, with 186 companies in the A-share solid-state battery concept sector experiencing stock price increases this year, 67 of which saw gains exceeding 50%, and 17 companies achieving a doubling of their stock prices [1] - Solid-state batteries are considered a major direction for lithium battery upgrades due to their high safety and energy density advantages, with potential energy density breakthroughs of over 500Wh/kg [1][3] - The industry is currently in a "technology validation period," with many companies establishing pilot production lines, which is expected to drive further upgrades in the industry chain [2] Company Developments - Guoxuan High-Tech has launched its first-generation "Jinshi" solid-state battery, currently in pilot production, with a 2GWh production line design underway [2] - CATL is continuously investing in solid-state battery technology, aiming for small-scale production by 2027 [2] - Ningbo Ronbay New Energy has achieved ton-level shipments of high-nickel and ultra-high-nickel solid-state cathode materials, with pilot line construction for electrolytes ongoing, expected to be completed by Q4 2023 and production starting in early 2026 [2] - Wuxi XianDai Intelligent has successfully established a complete production process for solid-state batteries and has formed equipment cooperation with several leading companies [2] Market Outlook - The solid-state battery industry is expected to see significant growth driven by policy and demand factors, with large-scale development anticipated in the consumer sector between 2025 and 2026, and in the eVTOL sector from 2026 to 2028 [3] - The increasing demand for high-performance and safe energy storage solutions in the electric vehicle market is enhancing the investment value of companies within the solid-state battery supply chain [3] - Companies with core technologies and mass production capabilities are expected to gain competitive advantages in the future [3]

Investment Rating - The report suggests a positive investment outlook for the solid-state battery industry, highlighting its advantages over traditional liquid batteries and the rapid development of related materials [3][11][20]. Core Insights - Solid-state batteries outperform liquid batteries in safety, energy density, and integration, with manufacturers and battery producers rapidly positioning themselves to support material demand [1][11]. - The core of solid-state lithium battery technology is the solid electrolyte, with sulfide and oxide being the mainstream technological routes [2][34]. - The report emphasizes the potential of sulfide electrolytes due to their superior ionic conductivity and mechanical properties, while also noting the stability and industrial progress of oxide electrolytes [3][27][36]. Summary by Sections 1. Solid-State Batteries: Performance Advantages and Accelerated Layout - Solid-state batteries are expected to emerge due to their high energy density and safety, effectively addressing issues like lithium dendrite growth [11][12]. - The transition from liquid to solid-state batteries simplifies construction by eliminating the need for separators, thus reducing costs [12][27]. 2. Solid Electrolytes: Core of Solid-State Lithium Battery Technology - Solid electrolytes are classified into sulfide, oxide, polymer, and halide types, with the choice of materials being crucial for large-scale production [27][34]. - Sulfide electrolytes exhibit high ionic conductivity and good mechanical properties, making them a promising candidate for commercialization despite challenges like air stability and high production costs [36][41]. 3. Investment Recommendations - As the solid-state battery industry matures, upstream core materials will benefit significantly. Companies that are early adopters of lithium sulfide and have technological advantages are recommended for investment [3][41]. - The report forecasts that by 2027, the shipment of solid-state batteries in China will reach approximately 18 GWh, with a compound annual growth rate of 44% from 2024 to 2028 [20][22].

Core Viewpoint - Solid-state batteries are recognized as the next-generation battery technology, leading to a new "high ground struggle" in the energy sector, with four main electrolyte technology routes: polymer, oxide, sulfide, and halide [2][3]. Summary by Sections Industry Progress and Evaluation - The transition from laboratory prototypes to industrialization of solid-state battery technology necessitates a systematic reconstruction of the evaluation framework, expanding assessment criteria to include scalability, supply chain maturity, and lifecycle costs [3][4]. Polymer Electrolyte Advancements - Polymer solid electrolytes have historically faced skepticism due to low room temperature ionic conductivity, but recent breakthroughs have seen many polymer systems exceed 10⁻³ S·cm⁻¹, enhancing their application potential [6][19]. - Strategies to improve the electrochemical stability window of polymer electrolytes have been developed, allowing advanced polymer systems to achieve stability above 5V [6][19]. Thermal Stability and Safety - Enhancements in thermal stability are critical for the safe operation of solid-state batteries, with research focusing on thermally cross-linked polymers and polymer-ceramic composite electrolytes to improve thermal resistance and mechanical strength [7][19]. Interface Characteristics - The electrolyte-electrode interface is a recognized bottleneck for solid-state battery performance. Polymer electrolytes offer excellent adaptability to volume changes during cycling, maintaining stable interface contact and reducing interfacial resistance [11][20]. Supply Chain and Cost Advantages - Polymer systems benefit from a mature industrial base, with established supply channels for raw materials that avoid rare metals, ensuring stable supply and low-cost mass production [17][20]. - Compared to inorganic solid electrolytes, polymer electrolytes present significant cost advantages, with production costs for sulfide electrolytes being approximately 50 times higher than those for polymer electrolytes [25][20]. Challenges for Inorganic Electrolytes - In contrast, the industrialization of inorganic solid electrolytes faces severe challenges, including the need for extensive process overhauls, reliance on specialized equipment, and high raw material costs, which hinder scalability [22][29]. - The inherent brittleness of oxide electrolytes and the thermal instability of sulfide electrolytes pose additional safety risks, complicating their commercial viability [25][29]. Conclusion - Overall, polymer electrolyte systems have emerged as the most feasible technology for the industrialization of solid-state batteries, addressing traditional limitations and demonstrating unique advantages for large-scale commercialization [20][29].

Summary of Solid-State Battery Industry Conference Call Industry Overview - The focus is on the sulfide solid-state battery industry, which is recognized for its high energy density potential but faces significant production challenges due to the use of toxic hydrogen sulfide [1][3][4]. Key Points and Arguments - **Production Challenges**: The production process of sulfide solid-state batteries requires high levels of containment due to the toxicity of hydrogen sulfide, and the powdery nature of the materials complicates packaging and electrode adhesion [1][3]. - **Research Directions**: Research is being directed towards modifying electrolytes to enhance conductivity and improve the interface contact between electrodes. For instance, a lithium oxy-sulfide alternative developed by the University of Science and Technology of China aims to maintain advantages while reducing costs [1][4]. - **Company Plans**: - CATL plans to launch a pilot line in 2026 and aims for vehicle applications by 2027 [2][6]. - EVE Energy expects to introduce a pilot line in the second half of 2025 [1][6]. - Guoxuan High-Tech may launch a full solid-state product by the end of 2025 or in 2026 [1][6]. - Other companies like BYD, Panasonic, and Solid Power are also actively involved in this sector [6]. Important but Overlooked Content - **Lithium Sulfide Preparation Methods**: - Solid-state method offers high purity but is limited in scale. - Liquid-phase method is suitable for large-scale production but requires special solvents. - Gas-phase method is also suitable for large-scale production but necessitates a dry and sealed environment [7]. - **Solid-State Equipment Developments**: - Companies like Nakanor are early movers in interface impedance solutions and plan to launch prototypes in the second half of 2025 [8]. - Haicheng Pharmaceutical is enhancing conductivity through binders, while a collaboration between Shanjing and Delong is developing UV coating technology to address short-circuit issues post-isostatic pressing [8]. - **Catalysts for Industry Growth**: - Starting from the second half of 2025, several key catalysts will drive industry development, including the launch of small buses by CATL and the introduction of new vehicles equipped with solid-state batteries by various manufacturers [9]. This summary encapsulates the critical insights and developments within the sulfide solid-state battery industry, highlighting both the challenges and the proactive measures being taken by various companies.

Core Viewpoint - The commercialization of solid-state batteries is beginning to take shape with the emergence of GWh-level orders, but the current delivery relies on the modification and innovation of traditional lithium-ion battery wet coating equipment rather than a revolutionary new production model [2][3]. Group 1: Challenges in Manufacturing - The transition from liquid electrolyte to solid electrolyte in batteries is a fundamental step towards solid-state technology, which involves significant changes in the physical properties of the slurry system [4][6]. - The ideal battery slurry must exhibit "shear-thinning" rheological properties, allowing for low viscosity during pumping while maintaining structural integrity during drying [5]. - The introduction of solid electrolytes transforms the slurry into a "rich solid phase," leading to increased viscosity and the formation of hard agglomerates that can cause defects in the coating process [6][7]. - The complexity of the slurry system increases as it evolves from a simple "bimodal particle" system to a "multimodal particle" blend, complicating the mixing of different solid particles with distinct physical and chemical properties [8]. Group 2: Material and Process Divergence - Different solid electrolyte chemical systems present unique challenges for wet coating processes, particularly with oxide-based electrolytes that are hard and brittle, leading to wear on equipment [10][12]. - Companies like QuantumScape focus on achieving fundamental breakthroughs in material performance, which may conflict with modern battery manufacturing's efficiency goals [12]. - In contrast, companies like Penghui Energy prioritize process compatibility and commercial efficiency, aiming for high energy density while maintaining cost parity with traditional lithium batteries [14][15]. Group 3: Sulfide Route Challenges - The sulfide route faces a series of interconnected technical constraints, with wet coating emerging as the mainstream method for producing sulfide solid electrolyte membranes [17][18]. - The chemical instability of sulfide materials poses challenges in solvent selection and binder compatibility, leading to difficulties in achieving both solubility and adhesion [19][20]. - The industry is exploring various coating methods, with high-precision slot die coating seen as essential for large-scale safe production [22]. Group 4: Equipment and Industry Response - The manufacturing challenges in battery technology are creating commercial opportunities for upstream equipment manufacturers, who are actively deploying solutions to meet customer demands [23]. - Companies like Mannesmann have introduced high-temperature coating systems to address issues related to high solid content slurries [24]. - Other leading equipment manufacturers are also developing parallel dry and wet solid coating systems to enhance production capabilities [26][27]. Group 5: Integration of Materials and Processes - The successful commercialization of solid-state batteries requires a deep integration of materials, processes, and final product forms, leading to new manufacturing challenges [30][31]. - The current wet coating methods struggle to balance high ionic conductivity and flexibility in electrolyte membranes, highlighting the need for suitable binder selection [31]. Conclusion - The path to solid-state battery commercialization is not linear but involves navigating multiple contradictions and constraints while seeking localized optimal solutions [32]. - Future success in solid-state battery manufacturing will depend on the ability to integrate cross-disciplinary knowledge effectively [33].

Core Viewpoint - The recent surge in the delivery of dry electrode equipment for next-generation battery manufacturing indicates a significant acceleration in the industrialization process of high-energy-density batteries, particularly solid-state batteries [4][10]. Group 1: Equipment Deliveries - Multiple domestic and international equipment companies have recently delivered dry electrode equipment, marking a transition from research validation to production line implementation [3]. - Li Yuanheng announced the delivery of a complete solid-state battery production line, including dry electrode equipment, to a leading domestic company [4]. - Qingyan Electronics and Qingyan Nako successfully delivered high-speed wide-format dry electrode equipment to a major domestic automotive company [5]. - LiCAP Technologies in the U.S. has completed the acceptance testing of its 300 MWh roll-to-roll production line, producing self-supporting positive electrode films [6]. Group 2: Technological Advancements - Qingyan Electronics' equipment can achieve a dual-sided composite film speed of 80 m/min for the negative electrode and 50 m/min for the positive electrode, with plans to increase the width to 1.2 meters [5]. - The dry electrode process eliminates solvent coating, drying, and recovery steps, significantly reducing energy consumption and manufacturing costs while avoiding solvent residue issues [7]. - The core technology of dry electrode production, fiberization equipment, accounts for over 30% of the equipment cost and faces challenges in achieving uniform powder mixing and mechanical strength [8]. Group 3: Future Prospects - The recent deliveries of solid-state battery equipment extend beyond dry electrodes, with Huacai Technology delivering core front-end equipment to a solid-state battery company [9]. - Huacai's equipment addresses the challenge of achieving uniform mixing of solid electrolytes and active materials, indicating advancements in the field [9]. - The overall trend of equipment deliveries suggests that the development of next-generation batteries is moving from laboratory settings to pilot lines and engineering validation, paving the way for mass production [10].

Investment Rating - The report maintains an "Accumulate" rating for the solid-state battery equipment industry [4]. Core Insights - Solid-state batteries, utilizing solid electrolytes, are recognized as the most promising new battery technology, addressing the low energy density and safety concerns of current lithium-ion batteries. The industry is expected to exceed 100 billion yuan for all-solid-state batteries and 180 billion yuan for the solid-state battery industry by 2030 [1][33]. - The production processes for solid-state batteries will undergo significant changes, leading to new equipment demands. Key processes include dry electrode preparation, electrolyte transfer coating, and isostatic pressing technology, which will require new production equipment compared to traditional liquid lithium batteries [1][2][38]. Summary by Sections 1. Solid-State Battery: Future Battery Technology Direction - Solid-state batteries replace liquid electrolytes with solid electrolytes, significantly enhancing performance and safety, making them the future direction for power batteries [15][19]. - Solid-state batteries offer high energy density, safety, long cycle life, and a wide operating temperature range, addressing critical issues in current power batteries [20][30]. 2. Technology Iteration and Equipment Development Opportunities - The manufacturing processes for all-solid-state batteries will change, creating new equipment needs. The introduction of new processes and equipment upgrades will significantly increase investment in solid-state battery production lines [2][38]. - The front-end processes will see the introduction of dry electrode and solid electrolyte film preparation equipment, which is more compatible with solid-state batteries [2][41]. - Stacking technology will become mainstream in the mid-process, with isostatic pressing introduced to solve issues related to porosity and insufficient contact [2][54]. - High-pressure formation equipment will be necessary in the later stages to optimize battery performance by enhancing contact area and reducing interface resistance [2][63]. - Soft-pack packaging is highly compatible with solid-state batteries, providing advantages in thermal management and structural stability [2][66]. 3. Investment Recommendations - The report suggests focusing on companies involved in solid-state battery equipment, including Naconor, Honggong Technology, Mannester, Liyuanheng, Xianhui Technology, Xinyuren, Xiandai Intelligent, Hangke Technology, Yinghe Technology, Lianying Laser, and Haimeixing [3].

Market Overview - The A-share market rebounded today, with humanoid robots, computing power, and new energy sectors being the main drivers of the recovery [1] - By the close of the morning session, major financial sectors, including brokerage and internet finance, showed significant activity, leading to an expansion in index gains [1] - The Shanghai Composite Index rose by 0.47%, the Shenzhen Component Index increased by 1.19%, and the ChiNext Index climbed by 2.14% [3] Sector Performance - The liquid cooling server sector experienced a strong rally, with stocks such as Chuanhuan Technology and Jintian Co. hitting the daily limit [5] - The liquid cooling server market is projected to grow significantly, with estimates suggesting a market size of approximately 354 billion yuan in 2025, 716 billion yuan in 2026, and 1,082 billion yuan in 2027 [8] - The solid-state battery sector also saw gains, with companies like Guoxuan High-Tech reporting advancements in their production capabilities [10][12] Investment Insights - The liquid cooling technology is gaining traction due to increasing power consumption demands and the diversification of clusters initiated by major tech companies like Nvidia, Meta, Google, and Amazon [8] - The domestic liquid cooling enterprises are expected to excel in international markets due to their comprehensive capabilities in technology, product quality, cost, and service [9] - The solid-state battery industry is witnessing accelerated industrialization, with significant attention on equipment investments that are crucial for production processes [12]

Group 1 - The price of antimony in the domestic market has likely reached its bottom, with expectations of recovery due to seasonal demand and potential export growth [1] - Tungsten product prices are hitting new highs, driven by a decrease in supply from domestic quotas and environmental inspections, while overseas production increases are below expectations [1] - The upcoming peak season for flame retardants in September and October may significantly boost domestic antimony prices if export demand recovers [1] Group 2 - The solid-state battery industry is accelerating, with upstream equipment segments expected to benefit first as production processes are optimized [2] - The production process of solid-state batteries differs from traditional lithium batteries, leading to a significant increase in the value of equipment used in the early and mid-stages of production [2] - The transition to dry processing techniques in the electrode and electrolyte preparation stages enhances the value contribution of these processes [2] Group 3 - The monetary policy in the second half of the year may be more accommodative than expected, focusing on economic growth and employment [3] - External factors, such as potential interest rate cuts by the Federal Reserve, may create favorable conditions for monetary easing in China [3] - Domestic economic pressures, including the impact of tariffs and low inflation, suggest a need for further reductions in policy interest rates [3]

Group 1 - The solid-state battery industry is accelerating its industrialization pace, with battery manufacturers and vehicle companies gradually optimizing their pilot lines, leading to continuous cost reduction across the industry chain, which is expected to drive explosive growth in downstream market demand [1] - The upstream equipment segment of the solid-state battery industry chain is anticipated to benefit first from this trend, as the production process of all-solid-state batteries differs significantly from traditional liquid lithium battery production [1] - The key differences in production processes include the addition of dry mixing and dry coating processes in the front-end, which significantly increases the value proportion, and the adoption of a "stacking + electrode frame printing + isostatic pressing" technology route in the mid-stage, which slightly enhances the value proportion [1] Group 2 - The back-end of the production process sees a notable increase in single machine value due to the high-pressure transformation of the formation stage and the elevated requirements for equipment in terms of process environment [1]