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2w ago

LG Energy Solution and U.S. Labs Report 1,500 mAh/g Sulfur Cathode in Solid-State Pouch Cell

A peer-reviewed study details a one-step milling route with optimized electrolyte particle size that enabled near-theoretical sulfur utilization in a practical pouch cell.

The team demonstrated a marked performance improvement in a practical pouch-cell format (left). In contrast to the pellet-cell configuration (right), which typically requires a bulky compression fixture and has its active area constrained by the pellet geometry, pouch cells use sheet electrodes that can be readily scaled to larger areas—highlighting strong potential for EV-relevant designs.
A researcher conducts an experiment at the Frontier Research Lab jointly operated by LG Energy Solution Ltd. and the University of Chicago, in this photo released by the company on March 5, 2026. (PHOTO NOT FOR SALE) (Yonhap)

Overview

  • The collaboration among LG Energy Solution, the University of Chicago, and UC San Diego was published in Nature Communications on February 27, 2026.
  • An all-solid-state architecture was used to curb polysulfide dissolution and improve intrinsic safety compared with liquid-electrolyte lithium-ion cells.
  • A single-step co-milling process created a uniform composite and a beneficial metastable interphase, while micron-scale solid-state electrolyte particles proved critical to high utilization.
  • The team countered electrode “breathing” by pairing a silicon negative electrode with a lithium sulfide positive electrode to offset volume changes during cycling.
  • Researchers describe the results as a pathway toward lower-cost, higher-energy EV batteries, with further durability testing, scale-up, and manufacturing validation required before commercialization.