【SMM Analysis】Major Breakthrough in Power Batteries: Chinese Scientists Develop 600 Wh/kg Ultra-High Energy Density Lithium Metal Battery

Researchers at Tianjin University have recently achieved a significant breakthrough in battery technology, successfully developing a lithium metal pouch cell with an energy density exceeding 600 Wh/kg, while the battery pack has reached an energy density of 480 Wh/kg.

According to Xinhua News Agency, this innovation delivers a two- to threefold improvement in energy density and endurance compared to traditional lithium-ion batteries. The report notes that this breakthrough comes at a time when demand for high-capacity, long-lasting batteries is surging across sectors such as electric vehicles, consumer electronics, robotics, and the low-altitude economy. Although energy density is crucial, enhancing it has remained technically challenging.

While lithium metal batteries hold far greater potential than standard lithium-ion batteries, their development has long been hindered by limitations in electrolyte design. The research team at Tianjin University addressed this challenge by introducing a novel "delocalized electrolyte" that optimizes the solvation structure, thereby improving both battery performance and cycle life.

The project has not only resulted in the development of high-capacity cells and battery packs but has also significantly enhanced safety and cycling stability. A pilot production line has already been established and put into operation, and the technology has been deployed in three domestically produced micro unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).