How has external knowledge contributed to lithium-ion batteries for the energy transition?

Area of Science:

• Energy Science
• Innovation Studies
• Materials Science

Background:

• Technological innovation is crucial for achieving a net-zero energy system.
• Knowledge spillovers, the integration of external knowledge, are a key driver of innovation.
• Existing research lacks detail on the specific mechanisms and enablers of individual knowledge spillovers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate how knowledge from diverse sources is integrated into the innovation process for lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).
• To identify the mechanisms and enablers facilitating knowledge spillovers in LIB innovation.
• To provide actionable insights for policymakers and R&D managers to foster spillovers in clean-energy technologies.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative case study approach.
• Analysis of extant literature on lithium-ion battery innovation.
• Elite interview campaign with key LIB inventors and R&D/industry experts.

Main Results:

• Identified breakthrough innovations in LIBs.
• Determined the extent to which these innovations resulted from knowledge spillovers.
• Characterized various mechanisms and enablers underlying successful knowledge spillovers in LIB development.

Conclusions:

• Knowledge spillovers play a significant role in driving breakthrough innovations in lithium-ion battery technology.
• Understanding the specific mechanisms and enablers of spillovers can guide strategies for accelerating clean-energy innovation.
• This research offers a framework for facilitating knowledge transfer to advance net-zero energy solutions.