Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current state and future directions of the solid-state battery industry, particularly focusing on the innovations in current collectors and the challenges faced in achieving commercial viability. It highlights the complexity of transitioning from traditional materials to advanced solutions that meet the demands of next-generation battery technologies [1][18][20]. Group 1: Current Trends in Solid-State Battery Technology - The enthusiasm for sulfide solid-state batteries is high, with the industry claiming it has entered the "last mile" of commercialization [1]. - The innovation in current collectors has shifted from traditional attributes to more complex requirements such as 3D structures, high-temperature resistance, and corrosion resistance [1][5]. Group 2: Challenges in Material Performance - The chemical corrosion of copper by sulfide electrolytes and the volume expansion of silicon-based and lithium metal anodes are significant bottlenecks for solid-state battery technology [2]. - The introduction of nickel-plated copper foil by Nord Co. aims to address these challenges, providing a solution that balances performance and cost [3][5]. Group 3: Innovations in Current Collector Design - The development of 3D metal mesh current collectors using materials like foam copper and foam nickel is a promising direction, providing buffer space for high-expansion anodes and reducing local current density [9][10]. - The exploration of porous carbon-based current collectors represents a cutting-edge approach, aiming to eliminate metal while achieving high corrosion resistance and low mass density [11][12]. Group 4: Manufacturing Process Challenges - The introduction of dry electrode processes presents challenges for traditional current collectors, necessitating innovations that ensure strong adhesion between the dry film and the current collector [14][17]. - Equipment companies are leading the way in proposing solutions, such as the "dry powder direct coating technology," which alters the traditional manufacturing process [15][19]. Group 5: Industry Dynamics and Future Outlook - The article emphasizes the multi-dimensional challenges faced by the industry, including material performance competition and manufacturing process compatibility [17][20]. - The ongoing innovation race in current collectors reflects the industry's need for solutions that balance performance, cost, and reliability, with no clear leader emerging yet [18][20].