Next-Generation Solid-State Lithium-Sulfur Battery Portfolio (SABERS 2.0)

The original SABERS portfolio established foundational materials and architecture for solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries through innovations in graphene-based cathodes, solid electrolytes, and bipolar plate designs. Building on this foundation, SABERS 2.0 addresses critical challenges that have limited the practical implementation and scalability of solid-state batteries: cathode efficiency and electrolyte performance, anode interface stability, and cell-level packaging optimization. The SABERS 2.0 portfolio comprises four complementary innovations that work together to improve solid-state battery performance and manufacturing viability. Major licensable technologies in the SABERS 2.0 portfolio include: • Mixed Conducting Cathodes and Dense Electrolytes (LEW-TOPS-186): Two complementary innovations in electrolyte densification and catholyte formulation that simplify manufacturing and improve energy capacity, ion conductivity, and battery reliability. • Solvent-Free Anode Interlayer (LAR-TOPS-405): A dry-processed interlayer that prevents dendrite formation, maintains stable interfaces, and enables cost-effective, environmentally friendly manufacturing. • Isostatically Pressurized Cell Case (LEW-TOPS-187): A lightweight pressure vessel system that provides uniform compression to solid-state cells, eliminating the need for heavy machinery while enhancing performance and longevity. These technologies may be licensed independently, as part of the SABERS 2.0 suite, or in custom combination with the technologies in the original SABERS suite (LEW-TOPS-167). Innovators at NASA's Glenn Research Center and Langley Research Center have been developing further advancements to the foundational work in solid-state battery development from the SABERS project (LEW-TOPS-167). Building on SABERS' achievement of energy densities over 500 W-hr/kg, the SABERS 2.0 portfolio addresses critical challenges that have limited the scalability and commercial adoption of solid-state batteries. While the original SABERS portfolio demonstrated breakthrough performance in energy density and safety, SABERS 2.0 innovations focus on manufacturing scalability, battery longevity, and operational reliability. The SABERS 2.0 suite specifically addresses three key areas that enable practical implementation of solid-state batteries in demanding applications: cathode efficiency, anode stability, and packaging optimization.