Samsung Electro-Mechanics was conducting research into developing and manufacturing oxide solid-state batteries aimed at IT devices, TheElec has learned.
Solid-state batteries use solid electrolytes rather than liquid ones in currently commercialized batteries.
The electrolyte, which is between the cathode and anode, being solid means a separator is not needed.
This reduces the possibility of battery fires while also increasing the energy density of batteries, allowing them to last longer.
Research into solid-state batteries is focused on ceramic (sulfide and oxide) and polyimide types, while some combine both materials.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics is focusing on ceramic oxide type in its research, sources said.
Oxide materials are relatively stable and easy to handle, they said. As IT products are portable devices carried by customers, the company is prioritizing stability. The material is easy to handle also means they can be more easily mass-produced.
The production process for ceramic solid-state batteries is also similar to those of multi-layer ceramic capacitors, Samsung Electro-Mechanics’ main product.
Meanwhile, affiliate Samsung SDI is planning to focus on ceramic sulfide solid-state batteries.
The company is planning to start the operation of a pilot line for the batteries within the second quarter of this year.