Dmitry Yarmolich

Abstract:

Separator and current collectors are fundamental components of every Li-Ion battery; they contribute to the safety, performance, longevity, weight, and volume of a cell without directly participating in the kinetics of the electrochemistry. Decreasing the weight or volume of such passive components, without negatively affecting their functionalities, can directly improve the cell gravimetric or volumetric energy and power density.
In this article we propose a new approach to improving the safety and performance of Li-Ion batteries of various sizes and chemistries by utilizing two next generation, smart passive components: a metallized plastic “COATED” Current Collector (CCC) and a thin nanoporous ceramic Separator (NPORE®). CCC is a 6 μm PET film coated with Cu on both sides by a proprietary PLASMAfusion™ process that operates as a fuse when the internal temperature of the cell exceeds 250° C, preventing dangerous runaway events. NPORE® is a proprietary, thin and robust ceramic separator with sub-100nm pores and narrow pore-size distribution that does not shrink even at very high temperatures, further improving the inherent safety of a cell. Further, we discuss the expected benefits in terms of manufacturing cost, environmental impact and supply chain.