An energy-harvesting evaluation kit using an all-solid-state battery was developed through a collaboration between Maxwell Ltd. and Rohm Co., Ltd., including Lapis Technology, a Rohm Group company. The low-current evaluation module kit uses Lapis’ ML9077 charge control IC for energy harvesting, Rohm’s BD88133NVX DC/DC converter IC Nano Energy ultra-low current consumption technology and Maxwell’s PSB401010H and PSB401515H ceramic-packaged all-solid-state batteries. Rohm’s and Maxwell’s products are currently under development. The kit specifically addresses solar electric generation.
The kit provides easy examination of the charging solution for the all-solid-state battery, said Maxwell.
The Maxwell all-solid-state batteries inherently exceed conventional batteries in longevity and heat resistance, making the battery suitable for applications that were once inaccessible due to the limitations of conventional lithium-ion batteries. They offer several advantages including high-temperature resistance that allows them to withstand elevated temperatures without significant performance degradation.
Other benefits include long life and a high degree of safety, alleviating concerns related to battery-related incidents, according to Maxwell. The battery is compatible with power generation from sunlight and indoor lighting. By eliminating an external power supply, it can be used in a variety of industrial applications and consumer products.
Key features include low quiescent current (at non-switching) of the voltage boosting DC/DC converter IC (BD8B133NVX) at 180 nA (typical), high temperature resistance at an environment temperature of up to 125°C, and a high degree of safety evidenced by no firing or smoking in various safety tests such as 200°C heating, nail penetration and external short circuiting.
The evaluation module targets companies interested in adopting all-solid-state batteries and energy harvesting-compatible power supplies, enabling feasibility and performance evaluation.