New solid-state battery retains 75% capacity after 1,500 cycles

Researchers at the Paul Scherrer Institute (PSI) in Switzerland have developed a novel manufacturing process that significantly enhances the durability and performance of lithium-metal all-solid-state batteries, a promising technology for safer, higher energy density, and faster-charging batteries. The team tackled two major challenges: lithium dendrite formation and unstable anode–electrolyte interfaces. They employed a gentle sintering technique at a low temperature of 176°F (80°C) to densify the sulfide-based argyrodite solid electrolyte (Li₆PS₅Cl) without compromising its chemical stability. This method produces a dense, uniform microstructure that resists dendrite penetration while maintaining fast lithium-ion transport. In addition, the researchers applied an ultra-thin (65 nm) lithium fluoride coating on the lithium metal anode via vacuum evaporation. This coating acts as both a chemical shield against electrolyte decomposition and a physical barrier to dendrite growth, significantly improving the battery’s durability and reliability. Laboratory tests showed