The Future of Battery Electrode Production
Lithium-ion battery electrodes are conventionally produced through a “wet” manufacturing process. The wet process involves several steps: Active materials, conductive additives, and a binder are mixed in a solvent (often NMP – N-Methyl-2-pyrrolidone) to form an electrode slurry. This slurry is then coated onto current collector foils, and the coated foils are dried to remove the solvent. Finally, the dried electrodes are calendered to achieve the desired density and thickness. This process requires substantial capital investment, expensive NMP recovery, energy-intensive drying and safety concerns.
Dry electrode production offers a compelling alternative, addressing the key challenges of the wet process. This innovative approach eliminates the need for solvents and drying, simplifying the manufacturing process and significantly reducing its environmental impact. At Daikin, we offer high-quality POLYFLON BDP* specifically designed for dry electrode manufacturing. PTFE’s unique properties make it the ideal binder for this process.
Challenges of Conventional Wet Process
Hazardous solvents used
Solvent removal and recovery is highly energy intensive
High floor space requirements due to larger drying equipment
Potential solvent-material reactions impact compatibility
Restricted electrode thickness limits energy density
Dry Electrode Production with POLYFLON BDP
No hazardous solvents used
Lower energy consumption
Reduced equipment and floor space requirements
No solvent-material reactions
Higher mass loadings possible
POLYFLON BDP Binder for Dry Electrode Manufacturing
Our products are engineered for optimal fibrillation. During processing, PTFE forms a network of strong, interconnected fibers that effectively bind the active materials and conductive additives together, creating a robust and cohesive electrode structure. PTFE is also chemically inert and highly resistant to oxidation, ensuring the long-term stability and performance of the battery. This is especially crucial in the cathode, where high operating voltages can degrade other binder materials. The fibrous network formed by PTFE provides excellent mechanical strength and flexibility to the electrode, enabling it to withstand the stresses of battery operation and cycling. Our products are designed for easy mixing and processing in dry electrode manufacturing, ensuring a uniform and consistent final product.
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