Next-Generation Batteries: Technologies Powering the Future of Energy Storage

Conventional lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries have transformed portable energy storage, but growing safety concerns, material supply issues and the demands of electric vehicles (EVs), aerospace and grid applications are driving the search for improved designs. This infographic explores a selection of next-generation battery technologies, highlighting innovations in solid-state, lithium–sulfur and alternative metal-ion batteries. Despite their widespread use, Li-ion batteries present a range of limitations. Evolving demands from consumers and governments are also increasing the need for improved battery technologies. A range of alternative battery technologies are being developed that could help to address some of the limitations of traditional Li-ion batteries. Traditional Li-ion batteries use flammable liquid electrolytes, and are prone to leakage, short-circuit and risk of thermal runaway. Solid-state batteries replace the liquid with a solid electrolyte. Examples include:  Garnet-type LLZO (Li7 La3 Zr2 O12)  Thiophosphate (Li10GeP2 S12)  Polymer-based electrolytes AI and supercomputing helped to discover a new solid-state electrolyte – N2116 – that could reduce lithium use in batteries by up to 70%. Lithium-sulfur (Li-S) batteries Scientists recently created a new self-healing cathode material. The sulfur iodide cathode greatly enhanced conductivity and stability. Alternative metal-ion batteries Li–S batteries pair a lithium metal anode with a sulfur cathode. Porous carbon networks can be incorporated to help overcome performance limitations. Lithium can be substituted for alternative metal ions, such as sodium, magnesium, zinc or aluminium. Sodium-ion (Na-ion) batteries are particularly suited for large-scale energy storage. Researchers found that retaining water in nanostructured sodium vanadate hydrate cathodes enhanced performance and enabled faster recharge. Why new battery chemistries are needed Next-generation battery technologies Solid-state batteries Next-Generation Batteries: Technologies Powering the Future of Energy Storage Advantages Challenges High safety Lower ionic conductivity Improved energy density Processing complexity Faster charging Stability issues Longer cycle life Higher manufacturing costs Scalability constraints Advantages Challenges Very high theoretical energy density Poor conductivity Low cost Limited cycle life Reduced environmental impact Dendrite formation Lightweight Polysulfide shuttle effect Use abundant materials Advantages Challenges Low cost Higher weight Abundant materials Lower energy density Improved sustainability Shorter cycle life Better performance in cold temperatures Higher safety Growing demand for higher energy density Longer-range EVs are desired. Increased energy grid storage capacity is required. Desire for improved safety Key components of Li-ion batteries are highly reactive. Consumers seek safer alternatives. Need to improve sustainability Lithium mining is environmentally damaging. Greener alternatives are needed. Overcoming material bottlenecks and availability Difficulties sourcing lithium and cobalt due to scarcity and location. More abundant materials with robust supply chains are in demand. Faster charging times Consumers want greater convenience without compromising performance. Longer cycle life Extended lifespans support lower costs and improved sustainability. Progress in next-generation batteries is being driven by a range of technologies and approaches, including: Continued investment will help to advance research further. Key areas of focus could include: Sponsored by: Driving innovation in next-generation batteries Separator Lithium-ion battery Solid-state battery Liquid electrolyte Lithium ion Cathode Anode Solid electrolyte Identifying novel electrolytes and Rev e al ni g n a n o s c ale insights Enhancing precision in components AI-assisted screening In situ a n d o p e ra n do imaging Additive manufacturing optimizing compositions. ni t o d e n d rit e fo r m atio n and including electrodes, electrolytes d e g r a d a tio n p ro cesses. and separators. Employing closed-loop recycling S h a rin g k n o w el dg e and Sustainability C ol al b o rat oi n strategies and reducing reliance re s o u r c e s t o a c c e el rate d si covery. on critical materials. Overcoming regulatory and scalability Commercialization challenges to enable adoption of Li–S and Na-ion for niche markets and solid-state for EVs. Anna MacDonald Illustrated by Alisha Vroom Cathode Anode Lithium ion