Hitachi High-Tech Corporation and Powrex Corporation have completed a demonstration project aimed at optimizing coating conditions for cathode active materials in the manufacturing of all-solid-state batteries. This collaboration seeks to prevent battery output degradation and deterioration, a significant challenge in the development of these next-generation energy sources.
Coating is a critical factor affecting the performance of all-solid-state batteries, which are gaining attention for their improved safety and energy density compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The demonstration utilized Powrex's expertise in coating technology and Hitachi High-Tech's physical AI, which combines analytical and informatics technologies, to identify optimal coating conditions efficiently.
The joint effort aims to build a data-driven system for process development, reducing reliance on the specialized knowledge and experience traditionally required. By incorporating this into the HMAX Industry lineup, the companies hope to accelerate the commercialization of all-solid-state batteries, contributing to shorter development cycles and a stable supply of high-quality products.
All-solid-state batteries are expected to offer several advantages, including longer service life, higher voltages, and improved safety due to their non-combustible solid electrolytes. However, a major hurdle in their adoption is the formation of a resistive element at the interface between the cathode's active material and the solid electrolyte during charge cycles, leading to energy output degradation.
The demonstration project addressed this issue by developing a coating process using a lithium-conductive oxide film to prevent resistive element formation. This process requires careful consideration of factors such as material composition and equipment conditions, traditionally a time-consuming and expertise-driven task.
Powrex, known for its powder processing technology, and Hitachi High-Tech, a provider of analytical instruments, leveraged their respective strengths in this project. The demonstration utilized Hitachi High-Tech's X-ray fluorescence analyzers and scanning electron microscopes, which facilitated a streamlined evaluation process without complicated pre-treatment.
By integrating operational data from Powrex's coating equipment with evaluation results, the companies applied Hitachi High-Tech's PROACCELA process informatics technology to determine optimal coating conditions. This data-driven approach reduced the need for trial and error, shortening development times and paving the way for mass production.
Looking ahead, Hitachi High-Tech and Powrex plan to commercialize an optimal coating process proposal, anticipating the full-scale emergence of the all-solid-state battery market by 2030. They also intend to expand the application of this technology to various coatings and materials across different industries, including high-performance materials, pharmaceuticals, and chemicals.
The collaboration underscores Hitachi High-Tech's commitment to integrating advanced AI and data from its extensive product base to transform industries and contribute to a sustainable society. The company's efforts align with broader trends in the energy sector, where the demand for safer, more efficient battery technologies continues to grow.