Researchers at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU) have invented a new solid-state battery material that could replace lithium-ion batteries within the next 10 years.

The key innovation is a superionic material made from potassium silicate - a common mineral found in rocks. This material, patented by DTU researcher Mohamad Khoshkalam, has the potential to serve as a safer, more efficient, and environmentally-friendly solid-state electrolyte for future electric car batteries.

“The potential of potassium silicate as a solid-state electrolyte has been known for a long time, but in my opinion has been ignored due to challenges with the weight and size of the potassium ions,” said Khoshkalam. “I have found a recipe and process that makes the ions move faster than in lithium-based electrolytes.”

Solid-state batteries offer several advantages over today’s lithium-ion technology, including higher energy density, faster charging times, and improved safety.

The silicate-based material developed at DTU is cheap, abundant, and not sensitive to air and humidity - making it easier to manufacture on a large scale.

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“We have shown that we can find a material for a solid-state electrolyte that is cheap, efficient, eco-friendly, and scalable—and that even performs better than solid-state lithium-based electrolytes,” Khoshkalam added.

While still in early stages, the DTU breakthrough represents a promising step toward the “super battery” that automakers and consumers have eagerly awaited. If the technology can be successfully commercialized, it could enable electric vehicles with ranges up to 1,000 km on a single 10-minute charge.

However, significant technical hurdles remain before solid-state rock batteries make it to market. Khoshkalam estimates it will take at least 10 years before we see them in new electric cars.

Nevertheless, this innovation offers hope for a more sustainable future for transportation.