Fraunhofer IWS Dresden is spearheading research into solid-state lithium-sulfur, or Li-S, battery chemistry – aiming to deliver high-energy cells with improved cycle life and enhanced safety.
Supported by the German Federal Ministry of Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) and the EU’s Horizon Europe programme, two projects – AnSiLiS and TALISSMAN – form the backbone of this Li-S battery development.
The goal is to overcome limitations of a conventional Li-S battery, which suffers from poor cycle life due to liquid electrolytes promoting soluble polysulfide formation. Fraunhofer IWS researchers are pursuing a solid-state approach, converting sulphur directly into lithium sulphide without liquid electrolyte. Early lab results suggest specific energy above 600Wh/kg with stable cycling.
AnSiLiS focuses on materials development, simulation and cell integration, including a sulphur-carbon composite cathode, thin lithium-metal anode and hybrid electrolyte. TU Dresden and the University of Jena are investigating electrochemical interactions, while Helmholtz-Zentrum Berlin contributes operando analytics and 3D tomography.
TALISSMAN adds industrial validation, with nine partners across Europe targeting energy densities up to 550Wh/kg and production costs below €75/kWh. The design remains compatible with existing lithium-ion production lines.
Fraunhofer IWS integrates new materials and processes into prototype Li-S battery cells using its DRYtraec dry coating method, which eliminates solvents and reduces energy use by up to 30%. All development takes place at the Advanced Battery Technology Center in Dresden.
Target applications for Li-S batteries include aviation, unmanned aerial systems and portable storage, where energy-to-weight ratios are critical. Functional prototypes are expected to validate performance in the coming years.
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