All Solid-State Batteries for Navy Applications

The U.S. Navy requires reliable all-solid-state batteries (ASSB) with solid electrolytes to enhance their performance and safety. The novelty of the proposed study by NanoCoatings, Inc. (NCI) is the use of Magnetron Sputtering Physical Vapor Deposition (MS PVD) to manufacture thin, dense electrolyte layers of lithium-ion conductor and multiple cathode layers to provide high levels of ionic and electronic conductivity. In Phase I, NCI proved the concept of MS-PVD of the solid-state electrolyte (produced at South Dakota School of Mines and Technology (SDSMT)) on carbon-coated copper anodes. Single solid-state cells with thicker electrolyte layers produced at SDSMT confirmed the performance of the proposed solid-state electrolyte for ASSBs. The MS PVD method will be used in Phase II to fabricate multilayer ASSB architectures to accommodate lithiation/delithiation and enhance the contact resistances between the electrolyte and electrode layers. Adjustment of the MS-PVD parameters will produce the required tailored structures, such as thin, dense glass-ceramic electrolyte layers and high-voltage cathodes with balanced electronic-ionic conductivity. These structures are expected to provide mechanical integrity, safety, and required performance during the long-term ASSB operation. Assembly of single cells into a prototype battery with an integrated battery management system (BMS) will be completed as a deliverable item.