Nam Hyun-woo has worked as a staff writer at The Korea Times since 2013, mostly covering business and politics. He currently belongs to the Business Desk where he covers topics such as emerging tech, AI, ICT and Korea's chaebol community. Prior to joining the team, he was the paper's correspondent for the presidential office of Korea during the Yoon Suk Yeol and Moon Jae-in administrations.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics bets big on solid-state batteries for wearables
Seen above are Samsung Electro-Mechanics' solid-state batteries for wearable devices placed next to smart pens. Courtesy of Samsung Electro-Mechanics
By Nam Hyun-woo
Samsung Electro-Mechanics is targeting the promising solid-state battery market for wearable devices, applying for over 40 patents related to the technology, which can offer enhanced flexibility for various form factors while ensuring greater safety.
The company said Thursday it recently succeeded in developing the world’s first ultra-small oxide-based solid-state battery for wearable devices. Despite its compact size, the battery boasts an energy density of 200 watt-hours per liter, comparable to that of larger lithium-ion batteries.
The company said the new battery stands out among rivals for overcoming size limitations. Reportedly, the battery can be produced in sizes ranging from millimeters to centimeters, tailored to customer specifications.
Solid-state batteries use non-flammable solid electrolytes for charging and discharging, making them safer and more resistant to external shocks. They can also be produced in various forms and ultra-small sizes.
The company said it could develop the miniaturized battery by exploiting its multi-layer ceramic capacitors production technology, which alternately prints thin layers of materials and stacks them. The process prevents wrinkling issues observed in conventional lithium-ion batteries while enabling minimal volume change during charging, eliminating the need for extra space.
The company spent over three years on research and development, completing the project last month. To develop this into a business, the company has applied for more than 40 patents during the development period.
Samsung Electro-Mechanics plans to use this battery in wearable devices, given its advantages in stability, size and flexibility in form. An official at the company said it is currently conducting sample tests with potential client companies.