SK On announced on the 13th that the results of a research and development project on all-solid-state batteries, conducted in collaboration with leading domestic universities and institutions, have been documented in papers and recently published in international academic journals. It has also completed patent applications for some research findings.
SK On conducted research to enhance the manufacturing process of polymer-oxide composite all-solid-state batteries using ultra-fast light sintering technology in collaboration with a research team led by Dr. Kim Jin-ho of the Korea Institute of Ceramic Engineering and Technology. Light sintering is a process that rapidly applies strong light energy to promote the bonding of powder particles, creating a solid mass with improved strength and durability. While it has primarily been used in making printed circuit boards, it has now been applied to battery manufacturing.
The paper discussing this research was featured as the cover paper in the prominent energy and chemistry journal 'ACS Energy Letters.' Six of the nine authors of the paper are members of SK On.
Additionally, SK On revealed research findings analyzing the potential application of manganese-rich layered oxides (LMRO) cathode materials in sulfide all-solid-state batteries. This research, conducted in collaboration with a research team led by Professor Lee Gyu-tae of Seoul National University, was published last month as the cover paper in the prestigious international journal 'Advanced Energy Materials.' This study is noted for its distinction from previous research, which focused primarily on performance by thoroughly elucidating the degradation mechanism of LMRO active materials.
LMRO cathode materials provide a significant cost advantage due to their reliance on manganese, which is cheaper than nickel and cobalt. However, applying them to existing lithium-ion batteries has posed challenges, such as gas generation from liquid electrolyte side reactions, resulting in voltage drops and capacity reductions. Hence, the industry has been researching the potential for application in all-solid-state batteries.
SK On has identified through various analyses that oxygen (O₂) generated from LMRO active materials during charge and discharge under high temperature and high voltage conditions causes oxidation of the sulfide solid electrolyte, leading to degradation. To address this issue, they have found a method to improve battery lifespan by applying a special coating material that reduces oxygen generation.
SK On is developing two types of all-solid-state batteries: polymer-oxide composites and sulfide systems. They aim to produce commercial prototypes in 2027 and 2029, respectively. The next-generation battery pilot plant currently under construction at the Daejeon Battery Research Institute is expected to be completed in the second half of this year.