3D Printing of Solid State Batteries with Controlled Geometry

"This project aims to develop 3D printed batteries using Photocentric's novel 3D printing process, in which visible light emitted from liquid crystal (LCD) screens, is being used to selectively cure liquid photopolymer with a sub 10-micron accuracy. A major challenge of the 21st century is electrochemical energy storage, thus the production of more efficient batteries. Despite the progress achieved in this field, especially on the development and reliability of lithium-ion batteries, the main challenge remains to obtain batteries with high energy and power density, lightweight, safe and cost effective.

The main hurdle for achieving improved battery performance is the current fabrication process include multiple, energy and labour-intensive steps, which has little scope for customisation such as changing geometry.

The aim of this feasibility project is to use state-of-the art 3D printing to design and manufacture of battery materials for a variety of battery parts as well as solid state batteries for electric vehicles with accurate control of size, shape and porosity of electrodes to enable high energy density while minimising the overall size and weight.

In collaboration with the Centre for Process Innovation (CPI) and Johnson Matthey (JM), we intend to develop 3D printable SSB materials and adapt our 3D printing method for fast and efficient fabrication of batteries. This technology will be tested on small-scale batteries as a proof concept and subsequently scaled up."