SK On opens all-solid-state battery pilot plant for commercialization by 2029

SK On CEO Lee Seok-hee, center, poses with company executives during a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the firm’s all-solid-state battery pilot plant at SK On Future Technology Institute in Daejeon, Monday. Courtesy of SK On

SK On completed construction of a pilot plant for all-solid-state batteries, reaching a major milestone for the firm's plan to commercialize them by 2029, the battery manufacturer said Tuesday.

All-solid-state batteries are widely considered to be next-generation batteries due to their key upsides, such as lower risks of igniting and exploding.

The company will produce prototypes of the batteries and validate their quality at the pilot plant in Daejeon.

“This pilot plant will serve as a cornerstone for SK to leap forward as a strong and resilient company in addressing any changes in business environment,” SK On CEO Lee Seok-hee said. “We aim to remain at the forefront of commercializing all-solid-state batteries to accelerate electrification.”

SK On plans to commercialize the batteries with an energy density of 800 watt-hours per liter, with a long-term goal of extending the figure to 1,000.

The 4,600-square-meter plant uses SK On’s own warm isostatic press pre-technology to develop the batteries, marking the first application of this solution in Korea, according to the company.

The technology refers to an advanced pressing process that applies uniform pressure to electrodes at elevated temperatures to improve density and performance. The process helps batteries generate less heat and extends their lifespan.