Samsung SDI discloses major lithium-metal battery advance

Published: Monday, February 23, 2026 at 11:44 am

Samsung SDI Announces Breakthrough in Lithium-Metal Battery Technology

SEOUL, February 23 (BNN) – South Korean battery manufacturer Samsung SDI announced a significant advancement in lithium-metal battery technology, potentially paving the way for more efficient and safer energy storage solutions. The company, in collaboration with Columbia University, published a paper detailing the development of a new electrolyte formulation designed to enhance the lifespan and safety of these next-generation batteries. The research was published in *Joule*, a prominent peer-reviewed journal in the field of energy science.

Lithium-metal batteries are considered a promising technology due to their potential to deliver significantly higher energy density compared to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Samsung SDI estimates that lithium-metal batteries could offer energy density approximately 1.6 times greater than current lithium-ion technology. This increased energy density could be a game-changer for industries requiring high-performance batteries, such as advanced wearable devices.

However, the commercialization of lithium-metal batteries has been hindered by limitations in their charge-discharge lifespans. Samsung SDI believes that the new electrolyte formulation addresses these challenges, offering a pathway toward more durable and reliable lithium-metal batteries.

Company executives expressed optimism about the findings, emphasizing the importance of the research in overcoming a key weakness of lithium-metal batteries. The company plans to continue accelerating the development of next-generation battery technologies through its global research network. A Columbia University professor involved in the study also highlighted the significance of the breakthrough, suggesting it brings the commercialization of these advanced batteries closer to reality.

Despite the positive announcement, Samsung SDI's share price experienced a slight decline on the Seoul bourse on Monday.

BNN's Perspective: This development is encouraging news for the future of battery technology. While the market reaction was muted, the potential benefits of lithium-metal batteries are undeniable. The collaboration between Samsung SDI and Columbia University highlights the importance of research and development in driving innovation. If this technology can be successfully commercialized, it could have a significant impact on various industries, from consumer electronics to electric vehicles.

Keywords: Samsung SDI, lithium-metal batteries, battery technology, energy density, electrolyte formulation, Columbia University, Joule, next-generation batteries, wearable devices, battery innovation, battery research, commercialization, South Korea

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