Abstract: The invention provides rechargeable solid state batteries with multilayers of solid state electrolytes. The rechargeable solid state batteries disclosed herein are advantageous as they provide improved battery cycling performance combined with excellent power and energy density.

Abstract: The invention provides rechargeable batteries including a solid state electrolyte (SSE) containing an alkali metal disposed between two electrodes. The batteries are volumetrically constrained imparting increased stability under voltage cycling conditions, e.g., through microstructure mechanical constriction on the solid state electrolyte and the electrolyte-electrode interface. These batteries of the invention are advantageous as they may be all-solid-state batteries, e.g., no liquid electrolytes are necessary, and can achieve higher voltages with minimal electrolyte degradation.