3D printable solid and quasi-solid electrolytes for advanced batteries

Compared with traditional lithium-ion systems, solid-state batteries could achieve significantly higher energy density and improved safety. The design and method of synthesis of solid electrolytes are known to affect the electrochemical performance and mechanical integrity of a battery upon charge/discharge. 3D printing, while being the most advanced method for the fabrication of solid electrolytes, remains a bottleneck in the all-printed batteries and, hitherto, has not been systematically investigated. In this mini-review, an attempt has been made to address the issue of 3D printing of ceramic and polymer electrolytes by utilizing different approaches, in order to compare the conductivity of printed electrolytes and the electrolytes prepared by standard methods, and to propose investigation and development directions in this rapidly growing field.