Core Viewpoint - The traditional lithium battery industry is undergoing a reevaluation as solid-state batteries emerge as the next technological wave, with key players redefining their roles in the supply chain [2][3]. Industry Developments - Separator companies are proactively redefining their roles by developing "base film" products that can serve as solid-state electrolyte carriers, paving a clear path toward industrialization [2]. - Leading electrolyte companies are beginning to disclose their deep involvement in solid and semi-solid battery materials, marking a shift from their previous silence [2][3]. Key Material Innovations - Tinci Materials has chosen a liquid-phase method for lithium sulfide preparation, focusing on precise impurity control rather than merely achieving high purity levels [3]. - Tinci's lithium sulfide is currently in the laboratory stage, with a goal to produce kilogram-level samples by the end of 2025, aiming for significant cost advantages through in-house synthesis of solid-state electrolytes [3]. - Huasen Lithium has also adopted a liquid-phase method, achieving an ionic conductivity of 5.57 mS/cm for Li₆PS₅Cl solid-state electrolyte [4]. Production Capacity and Goals - New Zobon, a major electrolyte player, has formed a joint venture with separator company Xingyuan Materials, achieving over 100 kg production of sulfide electrolytes and plans to establish a 10-ton/year production line by the end of 2025 [5]. Transition to Semi-Solid Solutions - Semi-solid gel electrolytes are viewed as the closest solution to commercialization, requiring minimal changes to existing cell production processes for rapid large-scale application [5]. - Tinci is working on an in-situ solidifying gel electrolyte to address safety concerns and reduce leakage risks, although challenges remain in achieving uniformity during scaling [5][6]. Strategic Material Development - Tinci is also developing high-voltage electrolyte solutions while engaging in the development of 5V nickel manganese lithium high-voltage cathode materials, which can increase energy density by over 20% compared to lithium iron phosphate [6]. - The compatibility of nickel manganese lithium with electrolytes poses commercialization challenges, prompting Tinci to innovate in solvent and additive development [6]. Alternative Material Paths - Shida Shenghua is focusing on silicon-based anodes as a key alternative path, leveraging its chemical industry advantages to establish a thousand-ton production line for silicon-based anodes [7][8]. - Companies like Kunlun New Materials are diversifying their technological coverage, offering products across sulfide, oxide powders, and slurries tailored to customer specifications [8]. Conclusion - Chinese electrolyte companies have moved past the observation phase, leveraging their core competencies in chemical synthesis, purification, and industrialization to engage in a competitive race for next-generation battery materials [8].