IDTechEx has released a new report on a niche, emerging technology targeting the smart labels and wearables markets. “Flexible Batteries Market 2025-2035: Technologies, Forecasts, and Players”, explores predictions for the flexible battery market alongside new opportunities for the companies operating within the industry.
Flexibility is more easily achieved with extremely thin batteries, where there is less stress applied to the components when they are bent. One of the biggest barriers to flexibility, alongside certain battery chemistries, is rigid packaging. When normal cells are bent, creases that form in the packaging material could form sharp points, which, over time, could puncture the components within the battery. Through the process of pre-wrinkling, the areas where wrinkles form during flexing can be predetermined. This reduces the risk of component puncture, allowing for more movement overall.
Thin batteries such as thin-film solid-state, printed zinc chemistries, and primary lithium were some of the first to mature, allowing for greater safety than other flexible battery options. Thin-film solid-state offers the greatest safety but at very steep costs compared to other thin, flexible options, and rigid options. However, they matured earlier and proved to be much safer than other flexible battery options, meaning they are a good candidate for high-end applications or where great reliability is necessary. Bulk solid-state batteries can still achieve flexibility with their use of solid-state electrolytes, and despite being larger than thin-film options, are still smaller than regular batteries.
The cost and lack of general interest in flexible battery technologies means the scope for large development is limited. The hype around potential flexible phones and other smart products may gain traction. However, the feasibility of developing such products with high material and development costs cannot quite match up. The new report from IDTechEx delves into applications within smart packaging and wearables, as well as trends and predictions for flexible batteries across the next 10 years.
To find out more about this IDTechEx report, including downloadable sample pages, please visit www.IDTechEx.com/flex.
For the full portfolio of energy storage and batteries market research available from IDTechEx, please see visit their website here.
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