KAIST researchers announced a structural breakthrough for solid-state batteries on January 7, achieving 2-4 times faster lithium-ion movement without expensive metals. The team's "Framework Regulation Mechanism" modifies crystal structures using oxygen and sulfur to create wider ion pathways.
The South Korean research team, led by Professor Dong-Hwa Seo, published their findings in Nature Communications on November 27, 2025. Collaborators included scientists from Seoul National University, Yonsei University, and Dongguk University.
Solid-state batteries replace flammable liquid electrolytes with solid materials, significantly reducing fire risks but slowing ion movement. Traditional solutions required costly metals like cobalt or complex manufacturing processes.
KAIST's approach introduces divalent anions - oxygen and sulfur atoms - into zirconium-based halide electrolytes. These elements integrate into the crystal framework, expanding pathways and reducing energy barriers for lithium ions.
Oxygen-doped electrolytes achieved 1.78 mS/cm ionic conductivity at room temperature, while sulfur versions reached 1.01 mS/cm. Both exceed the 1 mS/cm threshold generally considered sufficient for practical battery applications at room temperature.
Advanced analytical techniques confirmed the structural changes, including high-energy synchrotron X-ray diffraction and density functional theory modeling. The methods provided atomic-level verification of improved ion transport pathways.
Professor Seo stated the research presents "a design principle that can simultaneously improve the cost and performance of all-solid-state batteries using cheap raw materials." Lead author Jae-Seung Kim noted the shift from material selection to structural design.
The breakthrough addresses three critical battery challenges: safety, performance, and cost. Solid-state batteries eliminate explosion risks while the structural approach avoids expensive rare earth metals.
Samsung Electronics Future Technology Promotion Center funded the research alongside Korean national science foundations. The industrial backing suggests potential for commercial development.
Current lithium-ion batteries power smartphones and electric vehicles but face limitations including fire hazards and high costs. Solid-state alternatives have struggled with performance trade-offs until this structural innovation.
The research demonstrates that battery advancement can come from smarter design rather than new materials. This paradigm shift could accelerate solid-state battery commercialization across consumer electronics and electric vehicles.
Practical applications require further development and scaling, but the structural approach provides a clear path forward. The technology could reach consumer devices within several years if manufacturing challenges are addressed.
Industry analysts note that solid-state batteries represent the next generation of energy storage, with potential for longer lifespans and faster charging. KAIST's cost-effective approach removes a major barrier to widespread adoption in devices like modern laptops.
