The collaboration unites Prof. Toshinori Okura and Santosh Miryala from Kogakuin University with Prof. Kaushal Kumar from IIT (ISM) Dhanbad. Together, the teams will investigate Narpsio-V glass-ceramics, a promising class of materials commonly described as sodium-ion superionic conductors.

Narpsio-V systems are attracting intense interest because they combine high ionic conductivity with strong chemical stability—two properties that are essential for practical solid electrolytes. Their glass-ceramic architecture also offers the opportunity to tune phase formation and transport pathways during processing.

A central theme of the research is to deepen understanding of structural and microstructural evolution as materials transition from glassy precursors to functional crystalline phases embedded within an amorphous matrix. This evolution is expected to directly influence sodium-ion mobility and long-term performance under operating conditions.

The joint work will integrate experimental investigations across multiple length scales, from compositional and phase analysis to microstructural characterization that probes grain-scale features relevant to ion transport. By correlating these observations with electrochemical behavior, the researchers aim to establish clear structure–property relationships.

Within energy storage and conversion, sodium-ion superionic conductors are key candidates for solid-state sodium-ion batteries and related electrochemical devices. These technologies can benefit from replacing flammable liquid electrolytes with robust solid alternatives, improving safety and enabling new design constraints.

The partners also plan to explore strategies to optimize performance by refining synthesis and processing conditions. Such approaches may help control ionic transport pathways, mitigate degradation mechanisms, and enhance conductivity while maintaining chemical reliability.

“Narpsio glass-ceramic materials offer tremendous potential for next-generation energy storage because of their exceptional sodium-ion conductivity and versatility. Through this collaboration, we aim to deepen our understanding of these materials and accelerate the development of advanced solid electrolytes,” said Prof. Toshinori Okura.

“This academic collaboration represents more than a joint research project as it reflects the growing scientific partnership between Japan and India,” Santosh Miryala added. Prof. Kaushal Kumar emphasized that leveraging complementary expertise will create a strong platform for long-term cooperation and innovation in advanced glass materials.

Subject of Research: Next-generation multifunctional glass-ceramic materials; sodium-ion superionic conductors (Narpsio-V) for energy storage and conversion.
Article Title: Kogakuin University–IIT (ISM) Dhanbad Collaboration Advances Narpsio-V Glass-Ceramic Solid Electrolytes
News Publication Date:
Web References:
References:
Image Credits: Kogakuin University

Keywords

Sodium-ion batteries; solid electrolytes; glass-ceramics; superionic conductors; ionic conductivity; phase evolution; microstructural characterization; energy materials.

The study employed operando birefringence microscopy, a sophisticated optical technique sensitive to stress-induced changes in transparent materials, to directly observe and quantify the stress fields evolving around growing lithium dendrites in a garnet-type solid electrolyte, specifically Li₆.₆La₃Zr₁.₆Ta₀.₄O₁₂. This material is known for its high ionic conductivity and remarkable chemical stability, making it a promising candidate for next-generation batteries. Through real-time stress mapping, the researchers unveiled an unexpected inverse relationship between dendrite growth velocity and plating-induced stress intensity.

In traditional understanding, lithium deposition inside the solid electrolyte leads to localized volumetric expansions that generate internal stresses. Once such stresses reach or exceed the electrolyte’s fracture strength, cracks form, guiding the dendrite tip’s rapid and damaging penetration. Contrary to this, the current experiments showed that at elevated current densities — which correspond to faster dendrite propagation — the stresses at the dendrite tip actually fall to levels up to 75% below those required to fracture the electrolyte under purely mechanical loading conditions. This counterintuitive trend signifies that factors beyond mechanical elasticity govern dendrite dynamics.

To elucidate the underlying cause, the researchers turned to cryogenic scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), enabling atomic-scale imaging of dendrites and electrolyte interfaces preserved in their native electrochemical state. The data revealed that at higher dendrite velocities, electrolyte decomposition occurs locally, inducing phase transitions that result in a net molar volume contraction around the dendrite-electrolyte interface. Such electrochemical corrosion weakens the mechanical integrity of the solid electrolyte without manifesting as classical fracture stresses.

This discovery gives rise to the concept of “electrochemical embrittlement,” a mechanism distinct from the mechanical fracture hypothesis that has dominated the field. Electrochemically induced phase changes during lithium plating lead to volumetric contraction and localized material weakening, effectively lowering the barrier for dendrite propagation. The finding challenges existing mitigation strategies focused solely on enhancing electrolyte fracture toughness or imposing physical barriers to dendrite growth.

Understanding the interplay between electrochemical corrosion and mechanical stress evolution opens new research directions for controlling dendrite formation. By tailoring the phase stability of the solid electrolyte near the lithium interface and moderating the electrochemical environment at high current densities, battery scientists can potentially suppress this embrittlement pathway. This would extend battery life, enable faster charging rates, and enhance operational safety — long-sought goals for electric vehicles and grid-scale storage.

Moreover, the study highlights the critical importance of in situ monitoring techniques capable of capturing microscale electro-chemo-mechanical phenomena in real time. The application of birefringence microscopy and cryo-STEM together represents a powerful multimodal approach to dissect complex interface processes in solid-state systems. Such advanced characterization offers unprecedented insight into the dynamic behaviors dictating battery performance beyond conventional electrochemical measurements.

While garnet-type solid electrolytes remain front-runners for commercial solid-state architectures, the revealed electrochemical corrosion mechanism will likely be relevant across various solid-state chemistries. The intricate coupling between redox-driven phase changes and mechanical stresses invites reevaluation of material selection and interface engineering protocols. Mitigation strategies might include doping to stabilize electrolyte phases, buffer layers to accommodate volumetric changes, or dynamic control of plating conditions.

The work also bears wider implications for fundamental materials science. Electrochemical embrittlement as observed here could inform analogous phenomena in other energy-related technologies, such as metal anode capacitors or next-generation electrolysis cells. The subtle yet profound role of phase transitions induced by electrochemical reactions in solid-state solids broadens the conceptual framework of degradation pathways.

In summary, Fincher and colleagues report a paradigm shift in understanding dendrite growth in solid-state batteries by demonstrating that dendrites propagate under electrochemical embrittlement at stresses far below mechanical fracture thresholds. Their integrative experimental approach combines operando stress imaging with atomic-level microscopy of interface degradation, revealing critical new pathways shaping instability. This insight paves the way for innovative material designs and operational protocols that can harness the full potential of solid-state batteries for sustainable energy futures.

Continuous innovation in characterization techniques and targeted electrolyte chemistry tuning will be vital to overcoming dendrite-induced limitations. As the battery community digests these transformative findings, attention will turn toward translating electrochemical embrittlement concepts into practical countermeasures that meet the ever-growing demands for safer, faster, and longer-lasting energy storage. The journey toward dendrite-free solid-state batteries may now advance on fundamentally altered scientific footing, offering renewed hope for enabling the electrified society of tomorrow.

Subject of Research:
Electrochemical and mechanical coupling governing dendrite growth in solid-state lithium batteries, with a focus on garnet-type solid electrolytes.

Article Title:
Electrochemical corrosion accompanies dendrite growth in solid electrolytes

Article References:
Fincher, C.D., Gilgenbach, C., Roach, C. et al. Electrochemical corrosion accompanies dendrite growth in solid electrolytes. Nature (2026). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-026-10279-z

Image Credits:
AI Generated

DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-026-10279-z

Keywords:
Solid-state batteries, dendrite growth, electrochemical embrittlement, garnet electrolytes, lithium metal anode, operando birefringence microscopy, cryogenic STEM, plating-induced stress, electrolyte decomposition, phase transitions, battery safety, high current density

For decades, the challenge of pushing the voltage limit in solid-state lithium batteries has remained a bottleneck in advancing battery energy density. Traditional solid electrolytes, predominately sulfide and oxide-based compounds, are notorious for their instability at voltages exceeding approximately 4 volts. This degradation leads to premature failure, capacity fade, and safety concerns. Addressing this critical issue, the Yonsei University team engineered a fluoride-based electrolyte that not only withstands voltages beyond 5 volts but also maintains a lithium-ion conductivity of 1.7 × 10⁻⁵ S/cm at 30°C—a remarkable figure considering the chemical robustness required at such high potentials. This conductivity level rivals, and in some instances surpasses, those found in existing solid electrolyte technologies.

The secret to this breakthrough lies in the unique chemical and structural properties of LiCl–4Li₂TiF₆. Fluoride ions confer excellent oxidative stability, which is essential for high-voltage battery operation, while the compound’s crystal lattice facilitates facile lithium-ion migration. This combination mitigates interfacial side reactions that commonly plague solid electrolytes in direct contact with high-voltage cathodes. In practical applications, the researchers applied this fluoride solid electrolyte as a protective coating on high-voltage spinel cathodes, such as lithium nickel manganese oxide (LiNi₀.₅Mn₁.₅O₄, LNMO). The result is an effective shielding layer that suppresses detrimental chemical interactions at the electrolyte-cathode interface, dramatically enhancing battery longevity and cycling stability.

Testing the battery performance under stringent conditions revealed a remarkable capacity retention of over 75% after 500 charge-discharge cycles—a durability metric rarely achieved in high-voltage solid-state systems. Moreover, the battery demonstrated an unprecedented areal capacity of 35.3 mAh/cm², a new benchmark in the realm of solid-state batteries. The system’s ability to sustain such high areal capacities while maintaining stable cycling performance underscores its suitability for practical applications, including electric vehicles and portable electronics. Importantly, the team validated the scalability of their innovation by constructing pouch-type battery cells, reflecting real-world manufacturing formats and further emphasizing the technology’s commercial viability.

Beyond electrically stabilizing high-voltage cathodes, this work presents a versatile platform for integrating cost-effective halide catholytes, such as zirconium-based compounds. The introduction of the fluoride-based shielding electrolyte facilitates compatibility between these inexpensive catholytes and solid-state battery architectures, subsequently driving down materials costs without compromising safety or performance. This dual advantage is poised to accelerate the adoption of solid-state batteries by mitigating two primary industry obstacles: the high production cost and material scarcity associated with conventional cathodes and electrolytes.

The implications of this research resonate far beyond immediate technological gains. Electric vehicles equipped with these advanced 5-volt solid-state batteries could experience significantly extended driving ranges, alleviating range anxiety and promoting broader EV adoption. Similarly, the energy storage sector stands to gain from battery systems capable of storing larger amounts of energy efficiently and reliably. Such advancements offer tangible progress toward integrating renewable energy sources seamlessly into existing grids, thereby supporting global decarbonization efforts and energy sustainability.

Professor Jung emphasizes that this breakthrough transcends the introduction of a single new material, instead articulating a foundational design principle for future battery innovation. The concept of employing a fluoride-based solid electrolyte as a protective interface introduces a new dimension to battery architecture, one that balances electrochemical performance with durability and safety. This holistic approach aligns with the increasing demand for robust energy storage solutions able to withstand diverse operating conditions over long lifespans.

From a materials science perspective, the fluoride electrolyte’s extraordinary oxidative stability arises from the strong ionic bonds within the fluorine lattice, imparting resilience against electrochemical decomposition. Concurrently, the lattice structure facilitates lithium-ion diffusion pathways that are essential for sustaining ionic conductivity at room temperature. The crystal-chemistry engineering behind LiCl–4Li₂TiF₆ represents a major stride forward in the synthesis of solid electrolytes that marry mechanical robustness with electrochemical function—a balance critical for commercial viability.

Equally significant is the battery’s demonstrated suppression of interfacial degradation phenomena, a notorious culprit behind failure in solid-state systems. The solid electrolyte’s ability to form a stable, chemically compatible interface prevents the formation of resistive layers and mechanical delamination, thus preserving efficient charge transport kinetics. These interfacial insights may guide future electrolyte design, applicable beyond lithium-based systems and into other next-generation battery chemistries.

The research team’s experimental study also serves as a blueprint for integrating solid electrolytes with existing cathode materials, signaling a potential shift in how battery components are engineered and assembled. Their work reminds the scientific community of the need to adopt multidisciplinary approaches—combining solid-state chemistry, electrochemical engineering, and materials processing—to unlock performance thresholds previously deemed unattainable.

Crucially, this work underscores the strategic advantage of leveraging abundant, low-cost raw materials, such as lithium chloride and titanium fluoride precursors, in constructing the solid electrolyte matrix. The affordability coupled with the scalability of synthesis methods bodes well for mass production, easing the transition from laboratory-scale demonstration to industrial application. This alignment with economic realities distinguishes the invention from other high-performance materials that face commercialization difficulties due to cost or scarcity.

Overall, the advance delivered by Professor Jung’s group represents a crucial leap toward the next chapter of sustainable battery technology. Integrating their fluoride-based electrolyte into commercial battery manufacturing may usher in energy storage systems that are safer, denser, and longer lasting, fitting seamlessly into electric transportation, grid storage, and portable electronics alike. The breakthrough stands as a testament to how fundamental materials innovation can catalyze transformative solutions for global energy challenges.

Subject of Research: Not applicable
Article Title: Five-volt-class high-capacity all-solid-state lithium batteries
News Publication Date: 3-Oct-2025
Web References: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41560-025-01865-y
References: DOI: 10.1038/s41560-025-01865-y
Image Credits: Yonsei University

Keywords

Energy storage, Batteries, Materials science, Nanotechnology, Renewable energy, Electric vehicles, Electrochemistry, Chemical engineering, Sustainability, Solid state chemistry

The core innovation of the study lies in the development of a solid-state supercapacitor employing a composite electrolyte based on lithium-ion (Li+) garnet and ionic liquids. This groundbreaking combination is especially important as conventional electrolytes often struggle with thermal stability, leading to reduced performance and potential safety hazards. By integrating Li+-garnet with ionic liquids, the researchers have crafted an electrolyte that not only sustains high ionic conductivity but also exhibits remarkable thermal tolerance, expanding the potential operational temperature range of supercapacitors.

One of the primary challenges faced in energy storage technologies is the trade-off between energy density and power density. While supercapacitors excel in rapid charging and discharging, they often lag behind in energy storage capacity compared to traditional batteries. The findings from Kaur and colleagues indicate that their composite electrolyte not only enhances the thermal stability of the supercapacitor but also improves its energy density. This dual improvement paves the way for applications that require both quick power delivery and substantial energy storage, making supercapacitors more viable for a variety of uses.

The researchers utilized a series of rigorous experiments to assess the performance metrics of their supercapacitor design. Employing a variety of methods, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry, they managed to demonstrate the superior conductivity of their Li+-garnet-ionic liquid composite. The results were impressive, showing that the composite maintained high ionic conductivity not only at room temperature but also at elevated temperatures, far exceeding the capabilities of conventional aqueous or gel electrolytes.

In practical terms, the ability to operate in a wide temperature range means these supercapacitors could find applications in extreme environments—ranging from electric vehicles that operate in varied climates to renewable energy systems situated in remote locations. For instance, integrating these supercapacitors into the automotive sector could provide vehicles with a more efficient method of energy storage, allowing for quicker acceleration while minimizing the risks associated with overheating.

The versatility of the newly developed supercapacitors extends beyond temperature resilience. Given their improved energy density, these devices could serve critical functions in applications where space and weight are at a premium. This opens up the potential for their integration into portable electronics, aerospace applications, and even grid-scale energy storage solutions that require both high power and energy capacity. The ramifications for cleaner energy systems and electric mobility could be transformative, facilitating a faster transition to sustainable energy solutions.

Moreover, the safety characteristics of solid-state supercapacitors cannot be overstated. Unlike liquid electrolytes that carry risks of leakage and flammability, the novel composite electrolyte developed by Kaur and her team exhibits exceptional safety profiles. This safety is crucial for manufacturers and consumers looking for reliable energy solutions that do not compromise on performance or pose environmental hazards.

As lithium-based technologies dominate the energy storage landscape, the importance of ensuring the sustainability of raw materials cannot be overlooked. The study addresses this concern by utilizing a composite that minimizes dependence on rare resources while maximizing performance. This approach aligns with global sustainability goals, making it a timely contribution to the field of energy storage research.

Furthermore, the findings from this research have sparked interest across numerous platforms within the scientific community. The potential for this technology extends into diverse fields such as marine technology, robotics, and even medical devices, where compact, fast-charging energy solutions are paramount. The multi-faceted implications of the temperature-tolerant solid-state supercapacitors position them as a leading solution to the energy challenges of the future.

Continuing advancements in materials science and electrochemistry will play a pivotal role in refining this technology further. The ongoing research efforts aim not only to optimize the performance of these supercapacitors but also to investigate even more environmentally friendly materials that can provide similar or improved characteristics. The future of supercapacitor technology looks promising as researchers explore new avenues for innovation.

In conclusion, the collaborative research led by Kaur and her colleagues is a significant stride toward redefining the landscape of energy storage technologies. With the advent of temperature-tolerant solid-state supercapacitors utilizing a Li+-garnet-ionic liquid composite electrolyte, the efficiency, safety, and practicality of energy storage devices are bound to experience a paradigm shift. These developments underscore the importance of continued research in this domain, as the quest for clean, efficient energy solutions remains a paramount global endeavor.

As we venture into a future defined by electric mobility and renewable energy solutions, the advancements reflected in this study will undoubtedly leave a mark, guiding the evolution of energy storage technologies. The journey of transforming theoretical research into practical applications is a testament to the resilience and ingenuity of scientists dedicated to forging sustainable paths for future generations.

Subject of Research: Temperature-tolerant solid-state supercapacitors.

Article Title: Temperature-tolerant solid-state supercapacitors using Li⁺-garnet-ionic liquid composite electrolyte.

Article References:

Kaur, G., Sharma, S., Sharma, B. et al. Temperature-tolerant solid-state supercapacitors using Li⁺-garnet-ionic liquid composite electrolyte.
Ionics (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-025-06758-4

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11581-025-06758-4

Keywords: Supercapacitors, Li⁺-garnet, Ionic liquid, Energy storage, Temperature tolerance, Solid-state, Electrolyte, Energy density.