Solid-state batteries (SSBs) promise safer, more energy-dense alternatives to conventional lithium-ion cells, yet they face a critical challenge: mechanical degradation driven by cycling-induced stress [1]. This lecture explores how bioinspired concepts—drawn from toughening mechanisms in nacre [2], mussel [3], wood [4] and other nature's hierarchical materials—can inform the design of next-generation SSBs with improved mechanical resilience and long-term reliability.

We will discuss how common failure modes in SSBs—such as crack initiation in electrodes, lithium dendrite-induced fracture in solid electrolytes, and cyclic delamination of interfacial layers—mirror mechanical fatigue behaviors found in natural materials. These parallels provide a foundation for applying structural design principles such as self-healing layers [5] and graded interfaces [6] to mitigate damage accumulation across scales.

Highlighting recent developments in fatigue mapping (e.g., S–N diagrams for electrochemical cycling) and electro-chemo-mechanical modeling, the talk presents a roadmap toward sustainable and robust battery systems. By integrating materials science with biological insight, this bioinspired framework offers new perspectives for extending battery lifespan while reducing resource demands—bridging performance and sustainability in energy storage.

 

 

References

[1] M.C. Pang, et al.; Materials Today, 2021, 49, 145–183.

[2] A. Li, et al.; Advanced Materials, 2020, 32(2), 1905517.

[3] Y.K. Jeong, et al.; ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 2018, 10(9), 7562–7573.

[4] J. Dai, et al.; ACS Materials Letters, 2019, 1(3), 354–361.

[5] Y. Cheng, et al.; Nanomaterials, 2022, 12(20), 3656.

[6] L.X. Li, et al.; ACS Applied Materials & Interfaces, 2022, 14(27), 30786–30795