A solid-state battery is an electrical battery that uses a
solid electrolyte for ionic conductions between the
electrodes, instead of the liquid or gel polymer electrolytes
found in conventional batteries.
In solid-state batteries, the materials used for the cathode and anode can vary depending on
the battery’s design and intended application. Here are common materials used for each:
1. Cathode:
•Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide (NMC): This is a popular choice due to its high energy
density and stability.
•Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP): Known for its safety and longevity, though it has a lower energy
density compared to NMC.
•Lithium Cobalt Oxide (LCO): Often used in small devices, but it has some safety and cost issues
for larger applications.
•Lithium Manganese Oxide (LMO): Provides good safety and thermal stability but with a lower
energy density.
These materials are similar to the ones used in conventional lithium-ion batteries, but in solid-
state designs, they’re optimized to work with solid electrolytes.
2. Anode:
•Lithium Metal: Many solid-state batteries use lithium metal as the anode to maximize energy
density. However, lithium metal presents challenges like dendrite formation, which the solid
electrolyte helps to mitigate.
•Graphite or Silicon Composites: Some solid-state batteries use graphite or silicon-based
materials, similar to traditional lithium-ion batteries, for improved cycle life and stability.
•Lithium Titanium Oxide (LTO): Sometimes used for high-power applications, LTO is stable and
safe but has a lower energy density.
The band theory of solids explains the behavior of electrons in
solids by describing the formation of energy bands, which
determine the electrical properties of materials.
1. Energy Bands Formation
•In isolated atoms, electrons occupy discrete energy levels or orbitals.
•When atoms come together to form a solid, their outer (or "valence") electron orbitals
overlap, creating a continuous range of energy levels called energy bands.
•These bands are separated by energy gaps where no electron states exist.
2. Types of Bands
•Valence Band: This is the highest range of electron energies where electrons are usually
present at absolute zero temperature. The valence band is typically filled with electrons.
•Conduction Band: Above the valence band, the conduction band is where electrons can move
freely and conduct electricity if they are excited into this band.
•Band Gap (Energy Gap): The energy gap between the valence and conduction bands
determines whether a material behaves as a conductor, insulator, or semiconductor.
3. Material Classification Based on Band Structure
•Conductors (e.g., metals): The conduction and valence bands overlap, allowing electrons to
flow freely with minimal energy input. This overlap enables metals to conduct electricity easily.
•Insulators (e.g., ceramics): The conduction and valence bands are separated by a large energy
gap (typically >3 eV), making it difficult for electrons to move into the conduction band and
conduct electricity.
•Semiconductors (e.g., silicon): These have a moderate band gap (about 0.5–3 eV). At higher
temperatures or with doping, electrons can be excited to the conduction band, allowing them
to conduct electricity.
4. Importance of Band Theory
•Band theory helps explain why certain materials conduct electricity while others do not, and it
is foundational to understanding semiconductor physics.
•It is also crucial in designing electronic components, such as transistors, diodes, and solar cells,
where controlling the movement of electrons between bands is essential.
