Next-generation functional ceramics show promise for accelerating carbon neutrality

A novel commentary published in Discover Materials highlights the growing significance of advanced functional ceramics with particular emphasis on glass-ceramics and high temperature superconductors that could play a substantial role in combating climate change by transforming clean energy technologies and enabling breakthroughs in next generation transportation, power transmission, energy storage and renewable energy infrastructure. It also outlines historical development, recent progress and future outlook into how these materials may contribute to global decarbonization efforts and a more sustainable energy future.

The paper focuses on two key classes of materials. Glass-ceramics are being developed for solid-state batteries and solid oxide fuel cells due to their high ionic conductivity, thermal stability, and chemical durability. In particular, sodium-ion conducting glass-ceramics could improve battery safety and energy density by replacing flammable liquid electrolytes with solid-state alternatives. High-temperature superconducting ceramics are also highlighted for their ability to transmit electricity with near-zero resistance, making them promising for efficient power grids, magnetic levitation transport systems, and next-generation wind energy applications. REBCO superconducting coated conductors, in particular, can sustain extremely high current densities at liquid nitrogen temperatures, supporting potential large-scale energy applications.

“High temperature superconducting ceramics are emerging as critical materials for the transition to sustainable energy because of their potential applications in next generation technologies,” said Santosh Miryala. “For example, MagLev train systems could reduce friction related energy losses and transportation associated carbon emissions while enabling ultra high speed mobility.”

 “Glass-ceramics are also attracting significant attention for energy storage applications due to their high ionic conductivity values,” said Prof. Toshinori Okura. “These materials could contribute to the development of safer and more efficient solid-state battery technologies for future sustainable energy systems.”

Lastly, the authors suggest that future breakthroughs in functional ceramics may emerge through the implementation of artificial intelligence assisted materials discovery and manufacturing optimization. According to the paper, AI driven approaches could help researchers identify new material compositions, optimize crystallization processes and improve superconducting film fabrication for next generation clean energy applications.