Abstract

The emergence of Structural Battery Composites (SBCs) presents a transformative potential in energy storage and structural functionality across the transportation sector, encompassing road, air, and space applications. SBCs integrate energy storage directly into structural components, offering significant weight reductions and enhanced efficiency. This review critically examines the state-of-the-art advancements in SBC technology, focusing on the development, integration, and potential benefits of these multifunctional materials. It explores the Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) of SBCs, addressing key technological challenges and scaling concerns. The analysis highlights the economic and structural benefits alongside the technical complexities of implementing SBC technology in practical applications. While SBCs promise substantial improvements in vehicle range and payload capacity, the integration faces hurdles related to material costs, manufacturing processes, and compliance with stringent safety standards. This review underscores the necessity for continued research, standardization, and collaboration between industry and academia to harness the full potential of SBCs for sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions. The conclusion discusses the economic implications, breakeven points, and consumer acceptance of SBC technology, weighing its viability against current market demands and sustainability goals.

Keywords:Structural battery composites; Battery technology; ABC costing; Multifunctional materials; Energy storage; Technology readiness levels (TRL); Transportation sector; Electric vehicles (EVs)

Abbreviations:SBCs: Structural Battery Composites; EVs: Electric Vehicles; LSBs: Laminated Structural Batteries; TRL: Technology Readiness Level; MRL: Manufacturing Readiness Levels; UAVs: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles; UAM: Urban Air Mobility