Navigating interfaces in solid-state sodium batteries: challenges, solutions, and future directions

Abstract

Solid-state sodium batteries (SSSBs) offer a promising, cost-effective alternative to lithium-ion batteries, taking advantage of sodium’s abundance and the enhanced energy density enabled by solid-state configurations. However, commercialization efforts are mainly hindered by critical interfacial challenges at the electrolyte/electrode junctions. These encompass issues such as dendrite growth, unstable interphases, mechanical degradation, electrochemical instability, and phase transitions. Overcoming these interface-related challenges is critical for unlocking the full potential of SSSBs. This review examines these issues in detail and explores strategies to address them. These strategies encompass advanced material design, such as developing solid-state electrolytes, composite anodes and cathodes, and constructing interlayers, as well as technological innovations in interface engineering. Additionally, computational approaches, including first-principles calculations, molecular dynamics simulations, and multi-scale modeling, are discussed for optimizing interface properties. The review also emphasizes various interface characterization techniques to deepen understanding of interfacial behavior. Looking forward, future directions focus on scaling up manufacturing processes, ensuring long-term interface stability, and leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to accelerate the development of effective solutions. This review provides a comprehensive outlook on overcoming interface challenges in SSSBs, providing a critical foundation for their successful commercialization and future viability as a sustainable energy storage solution.