FestBatt - The BMBF Cluster of Competence for Solid-state Batteries

We Are Creating Knowledge for Solid-state Batteries.

Solid-state batteries are a promising advanced concept over the currently available rechargeable batteries. They are comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries but differ primarily in that the electrolyte is solid instead of liquid. An electrolyte in a battery cell facilitates the transfer of ions between the electrodes. Solid electrolytes enable solid-state batteries to potentially offer higher energy storage capacities and improved performance, which could lead to longer ranges and shorter charging times in electric mobility. A key component is the negative electrode, where intensive material research is conducted, particularly exploring suitable concepts with lithium metal and silicon. However, their use with liquid electrolytes can pose a risk of triggering a fire in the event of a short circuit. By choosing an appropriate cell chemistry and a non-flammable solid electrolyte, this issue can be resolved in solid-state batteries, maintaining a high safety standard.

Before solid-state batteries can be successfully commercialized, significant material and production challenges must be addressed. Therefore, the Cluster of Competence for Solid-state Batteries (FestBatt) collaborates with over 180 scientists from 45 groups at 22 research institutions in Germany on the development and realization of different cell concepts for solid-state batteries in a transdisciplinary and goal-oriented manner. In addition to the production, optimization, processing and scaling of suitable solid electrolytes, the main focus is on the evaluation of cell concepts and process technology implementation for solid-state batteries. The research activities in FestBatt greatly benefit from a comprehensive array of analytical methods and are effectively supported by theoretical and simulation-based studies.

The cluster is funded by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and is thereby integrated into the BMBF umbrella concept "Battery Research". The application-oriented work is accompanied by an expert advisory board consisting of representatives from the BMBF, industry, and project management organization, and is coordinated by the Center for Material Research (ZfM) at the Justus Liebig University Giessen.