Thermal runaway protection (TRP) is an ongoing issue in the high-powered battery industry. As the technology for electrical vehicles (EVs) advances, along with their motor performance, capacity, and driving range, the industry will require innovations in materials to help improve thermal safety.
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Such materials must support original equipment manufacturer customization needs to preserve intelligent battery precautions while aiding such innovations.
Saint-Gobain Tape Solutions offers tailored solutions for thermal management, fire risk mitigation and propagation, and cell swelling to reinforce battery safety.
Compression Pads and TRP
Lithium battery (LIB) cells are arranged in a configuration (e.g., a module or pack) to attain the high energy density of EVs. This configuration uses external bracing, which retains mechanical safety and integrity while applying pressure on the surfaces of LIB cells post-assembly.
When in use, LIB cells endure a reversible alteration in thickness throughout the charge and discharge cycle, or “breathing” mode, and a gradual, irreversible growth of thickness over their lifespan (“swelling” mode).
Under the mechanical constraints of the pack or module, substantial internal stress will form within the LIB cell load. Studies show that too high or low pressure will negatively affect LIB cell lifetime performance due to multiple factors, such as Li-plating, electrode layer delamination, and solid electrolyte interphase growth.
By managing the pressure applied to LIB cells in an optimal range, cell efficiency can be improved and cell lifetime prolonged.
High-performing compression pad technology can efficiently control this pressure. One type of compression pad’s thermal stability and insulation allow it to protect against thermal runaway propagation.
Specific Requirements
The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) test procedure is the most commonly used, but methods vary depending on consumer needs. Cell breathing is significantly slower in compression pads than in a typical ASTM test method.
Tape Solutions performs analysis at various compression speeds and uses material simulation to better understand how materials act in real-life situations.
Conclusions
Battery designs vary, and numerous options must be explored to achieve the best design for a consumer battery. Through collaboration with customers and across teams, Tape Solutions works to find effective innovations that will work powerfully and sustainably.
Our R&D aims at pioneering high-performance products, driven by a commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions. Emphasizing sustainability, our focus has extended to reducing carbon emissions and embracing circular economics to foster a more resilient future. For example, we are developing more sustainable silicone products using recycled raw materials that could achieve more than 60 % CO2 reduction compared to silicone products made from virgin materials. We also plan to launch silicone products that have extremely low level off-gassing of cyclic siloxane.
Dr. Ying Wang, R&D Manager, Silicones Core Technology
Whether using existing products or creating something new, Tape Solutions keeps its customers engaged. Several existing options can help secure thermal protection at optimal levels. Tape Solutions is committed to researching and developing products to help balance battery packs' safety, performance, and longevity.
This information has been sourced, reviewed, and adapted from materials provided by Saint Gobain PPL Corp.
For more information on this source, please visit Saint Gobain PPL Corp.