SKILLINGS MINING REVIEW February2024

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Solid-State Technology An Investigation into the Development of Electric Vehicle Batteries

As the search for safer and more efficient electric vehicle (EV) batteries continues, solid-state technology emerges as an attractive topic. Solid-state batteries (SSBs) are viewed as the next paradigm leap in battery technology, offering potential benefits above traditional lithium-ion batteries. Nevertheless, they face significant technological obstacles.

Positive features of solid-state batteries 1. SSBs can store more energy than regular lithium-ion batteries. This is because solid-state electrolytes contain more lithium and allow for the use of lithium-metal anodes with higher capacities. 2. Solid electrolytes used in SSBs are generally non-combustible, which decreases the risks of overheating and thermal runaway. This intrinsic safety may eventually result in reduced battery pack cooling and protection requirements, lowering the weight and cost of electric vehicles. 3. Extended Durability: SSBs are less susceptible to deterioration than liquid electrolyte-based batteries. This results in an extended operational time, which may lead to batteries that outlast the vehicle's lifespan. 4. Furthermore, solid-state technologies may enable faster charging times. The absence of liquid electrolytes in contemporary batteries considerably reduces the likelihood of lithium dendrite formation, which is a critical issue limiting rapid charging.

Technological obstacles 1. Material Compatibility and Interface Difficulties: One of the most difficult aspects of SSBs is maintaining stable interfaces between electrodes and solid electrolytes. Material degradation and interface resistance are two concerns that can impede a battery's performance. 2. Manufacturing and Scalability: At the moment, it is challenging to produce SSBs at a scale suitable for automotive applications. These batteries' manufacturing processes are more complex and costly than those of traditional lithium-ion batteries. 3. Temperature Sensitivity: Certain solid electrolytes lose functionality when exposed to lower temperatures. To utilize SSBs in electric vehicles, it is necessary to develop materials that maintain a high degree of ionic conductivity across a wide temperature range.

tive recycling technologies reduces reliance on basic material extraction while also addressing waste issues.

Understanding the complexities of the supply chain for critical materials

Application of Renewable Energy in Mining

The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is dramatically changing the mining industry, resulting in the convoluted nature of essential material supply networks. In addition to increasing output, the challenge is efficiently negotiating geopolitical intricacies and ensuring a stable and diverse supply.

Implementing renewable energy sources in mining operations is a significant step toward sustainability. By incorporating solar, wind, and hydroelectric power into mining operations, the sector not only contributes to the electric vehicle (EV) industry's general goal of reducing carbon footprints, but it also reduces greenhouse gasses.

Projects of Community Participation and Rehabilitation Furthermore, sustainable mining needs reclamation activities and strong community engagement. By adopting post-mining land use planning options such as ecosystem restoration and community space development, the mining legacy can be altered for the betterment of the environment.

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Skillings.net | February 2024

Geopolitical and commerce interdependencies Geopolitical difficulties have a significant impact on the supply chains for commodities like nickel, lithium, and cobalt. These resource-rich countries usually wield significant power over the global supply chain, exposing them to potential vulnerabilities in the event of political unrest or trade wars. Political instability in regions such as the Democratic Republic of the Congo, a major cobalt supplier, has had an impact on worldwide prices.


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