All-Solid-State Battery Factory Opens for Business by SK On, Aiming for Commercial Production by 2029
SK On Completes Pilot Plant for All-Solid-State Batteries
SK On, a leading South Korean battery manufacturer, has announced the completion of its pilot plant for all-solid-state batteries (ASSBs) at the SK On Institute of Future Technology in Daejeon, South Korea. The event was attended by SK On CEO & President Seok-hee Lee, Head of the Institute of Future Technology Ki-soo Park, and Andrea Maier, head of Solid Power Korea, among others.
This development marks a significant step forward in SK On's mission to advance next-generation battery technologies. The company has partnered with South Korea's Hanyang University to achieve this goal, reporting a threefold increase in cycle life for sulfide-based ASSBs by applying a protective-film technology to lithium-metal anodes.
SK On and Solid Power, an American battery technology company, have been collaborating on ASSB research since last year. The partnership has resulted in the development of the pilot plant, which uses SK On's own 'Warm Isostatic Press (WIP)-free' technology. This next-generation pressing process applies uniform pressure to electrodes at elevated temperatures, improving density and performance while minimizing battery heat generation and extending lifespan.
The pilot plant will primarily be used to develop sulfide-based ASSBs, with some lines dedicated to lithium-metal batteries. SK On aims to commercialize ASSBs with an initial energy density of 800Wh/L, with a long-term goal of reaching an energy density of 1,000Wh/L. The company has accelerated its timeline for commercialization, aiming to bring ASSBs to market by 2029, one year ahead of its original target.
Andrea Maier, a professor and expert in battery technology, notably recognized for her work in solid-state batteries, is leading Solid Power Korea's efforts in this collaboration. Patent applications for the underlying technologies have been filed both domestically and internationally by SK On and Hanyang University.
The first-of-its-kind pilot plant in Korea is expected to enhance performance and productivity in the development of ASSBs. SK On addressed the lower productivity associated with the WIP process by optimizing the mixing of battery materials, reducing internal resistance within the electrodes, improving the bonding between electrodes and solid electrolytes, and optimizing pressing conditions to reduce interfacial resistance.
This milestone underscores SK On's commitment to innovation and sustainable energy solutions. With the completion of the pilot plant, SK On is one step closer to realizing its vision of a future powered by clean, efficient, and high-performance batteries.
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