IntroductionCarboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) is a polymer made by chemically modifying natural cellulose, which is found in plants. CMC has many uses in a variety of industries because of its ability to modify the viscosity and stability of liquids. This article will explore some of the most common ways CMC is used.Food IndustryOne of the primary uses of CMC is in the food industry, where it is used as a thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier. It can be found in many processed foods, such as ice cream, salad dressings, and sauces. CMC helps to create a smooth texture and prevent separation of ingredients. It is also used in gluten-free products to mimic the texture of wheat flour.Pharmaceutical IndustryCMC is also used in the pharmaceutical industry as an excipient, which is an inactive ingredient that is added to a medication to help deliver the active ingredient. It can be found in many medications, such as tablets and capsules, to control the rate of release of the drug. CMC is also used as a binder to hold the ingredients of a medication together.Paper IndustryCMC is used in the paper industry as a paper coating. It is added to the surface of paper to improve its strength, gloss, and brightness. Additionally, CMC is used in the production of paperboard and corrugated cardboard to improve their strength and water resistance.Cosmetics IndustryCMC is commonly used in cosmetic products, such as creams and lotions, as a thickener and stabilizer. It helps to create a smooth texture and prevent the separation of ingredients. CMC can also be used in hair care products, such as shampoos and conditioners, to improve their texture and viscosity.Industrial ApplicationsCMC is used in many industrial applications, such as oil drilling, mining, and textile production. In oil drilling, CMC is used as a mud thinner to reduce the thickness of drilling fluids. In mining, it is used as a flotation agent to separate minerals from ores. CMC is also used in textile production as a sizing agent, which helps to strengthen and stiffen fabrics.Personal Care ProductsCMC is used in many personal care products, such as toothpaste, mouthwash, and baby wipes. In toothpaste and mouthwash, CMC is used as a binder to hold the ingredients together and create a smooth texture. In baby wipes, CMC is used as a thickener and stabilizer to prevent the wipes from drying out.Construction IndustryCMC is used in the construction industry as a water-retaining agent in cement. It helps to improve the workability of the cement and prevent cracking as it dries. CMC is also used as a binder in construction materials, such as adhesives and wall putties, to improve their strength and viscosity.Farming IndustryCMC is used in the farming industry as a pesticide carrier. It can be added to pesticides to improve their adhesion to plants and increase their effectiveness. CMC is also used as a soil conditioner to improve the soil's water-holding capacity and assist with seed germination.Oil and Gas IndustryCMC is used extensively in the oil and gas industry as a fluid thickener and rheology modifier. It is used in drilling muds, completion fluids and workover fluids to prevent collapse of the drilling hole, reduce fluid loss, lubricate and cool the drill bit, and transmit hydrostatic pressure. CMC is also used as a fracture fluid in hydraulic fracturing or oil well stimulation.Lubrication and Marine IndustriesCMC is added to many lubricants as a viscosity improver to enhance their performance. In the marine industry, it is used as a drilling fluid, completion fluid, and workover fluid. It is also used as a lubricant for drilling equipment to reduce friction and wear.Quote InquiryContact us

What is the most common anode binder??Anode binders play a crucial role in the performance of lithium-ion batteries, as they help to keep the active material, usually graphite, in place and stabilize the surface. In this article, we will explore the most common anode binder used in the industry today.The Ins and Outs of Anode BindersAnode binders are materials that are added to the electrode of a lithium-ion battery to improve its efficiency and lifespan. They act as a glue-like substance that bonds the active material to the current collector, keeping it in place while allowing for efficient electron transport.The Importance of Anode BindersWithout an anode binder, the active material in a battery's anode can become separated from the current collector, causing a decrease in efficiency and a shortened lifespan. Anode binders also enhance the stability and electrical conductivity of the anode, leading to better performance overall.Polyvinylidene Fluoride - the Most Common Anode BinderPolyvinylidene fluoride, or PVDF, is the most commonly used anode binder in the lithium-ion battery industry. It is a thermoplastic fluoropolymer that is known for its high stability, resistance to solvents, and ability to withstand high temperatures.Other Anode Binders Used in the IndustryAside from PVDF, other anode binders that are used in the lithium-ion battery industry include carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), sodium alginate, and styrene butadiene rubber (SBR). Each of these binders has its advantages and disadvantages, but they are not as widely used as PVDF.PVDF in ActionPVDF is typically used in combination with a solvent, such as N-methyl pyrrolidone (NMP), to form a slurry that is then coated onto the copper foil current collector. The active material, usually graphite, is then added to the slurry to create the anode. PVDF also helps to prevent the formation of a solid-electrolyte interface, which can negatively affect the battery's performance.The Future of Anode BindersAs lithium-ion battery technology continues to improve, anode binders may also evolve to meet the demands of the industry. One area of interest is the development of binders that are less sensitive to temperature changes, as extreme temperatures can affect the stability and performance of the anode binder.ConclusionPolyvinylidene fluoride is the most common anode binder used in the lithium-ion battery industry, due to its high stability and resistance to solvents. However, other binders, such as CMC, sodium alginate, and SBR, are also used. The role of anode binders in the performance of lithium-ion batteries cannot be overstated, and as battery technology continues to advance, so too will anode binder technology.Quote InquiryContact us

Introduction Lithium-ion batteries are the most common type of rechargeable batteries used in portable electronic devices due to their high energy density and long cycle life. The anode in a Li-ion battery plays a crucial role in its performance and longevity. In this article, we will discuss the various materials used for anode in a Li-ion battery, their properties, and their advantages and disadvantages. Lithium Cobalt Oxide Lithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) was the first material used in the anode of a Li-ion battery. It has a high energy density, good thermal stability, and low self-discharge rate. However, it is expensive and has safety concerns due to its tendency to overheat and catch fire. Lithium Iron Phosphate Lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is a safer and more stable alternative to lithium cobalt oxide. It has a lower energy density but a longer cycle life and does not overheat or catch fire. However, it is more expensive and heavier than other anode materials. Lithium Manganese Oxide Lithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) is a lower-cost alternative to lithium cobalt oxide. It has a good thermal stability and safety profile but a lower energy density and shorter cycle life. It is commonly used in electric vehicles due to its high power output. Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum Oxide Lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (LiNiCoAlO2), also known as NCA, is a high-performance anode material with a high energy density, long cycle life, and good thermal stability. It is commonly used in electric vehicles and portable electronic devices. However, it is expensive and has a safety concern due to its high nickel content. Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt Oxide Lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNiMnCoO2), also known as NMC, is another high-performance anode material with a high energy density, long cycle life, and good thermal stability. It is less expensive than NCA but has a higher self-discharge rate and is less stable at high temperatures. Lithium Titanate Lithium titanate (Li4Ti5O12) is a unique anode material with a low energy density but an extremely long cycle life and fast charging capability. It is commonly used in electric buses and high-speed trains due to its high power output and safety profile. Silicon Silicon is a promising anode material due to its high capacity and abundance. However, it suffers from a rapid capacity decay and structural degradation during cycling. Researchers are currently exploring ways to overcome these challenges and make silicon a viable anode material in commercial Li-ion batteries. Garnet Garnet is a newer anode material that has shown promising results in terms of stability and ion conductivity. It is commonly used in solid-state Li-ion batteries, which have the potential to offer higher energy density, longer cycle life, and improved safety compared to traditional Li-ion batteries. Conclusion The anode is a critical component of a Li-ion battery, and its material choice affects the battery's performance, safety, and cost. There are various anode materials available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. The selection of the anode material depends on the specific application and performance requirements.Quote InquiryContact us

The Importance of Polymer Binders in Lithium-Ion BatteriesWhen it comes to lithium-ion batteries, there are several critical components that determine the battery's performance and lifespan. One such essential component is the polymer binder. In this article, we'll take a closer look at what polymer binders are, their role in lithium-ion batteries, and how they impact battery performance.1. Defining Polymer BindersBefore we dive into the specifics of polymer binders in lithium-ion batteries, it's important to understand what polymer binders are. Polymer binders, or polymeric binders, are substances that help bind or glue materials together. They are essential in a wide range of industrial applications, from adhesives to coatings to composites.2. What Are Lithium-Ion Batteries?Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable batteries that have become ubiquitous in modern electronic devices, including smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. They are so popular because of their high energy density, which enables them to store a lot of energy in a small space and deliver it efficiently.3. The Role of Polymer Binders in Lithium-Ion BatteriesOne of the key functions of a polymer binder in a lithium-ion battery is to help hold the active materials in place within the electrode. In other words, the polymer binder helps ensure that the electrode structure remains intact during the charge and discharge cycles of the battery. Additionally, the polymer binder can help improve the adhesion of the electrode to the current collector.4. Types of Polymer Binders Used in Lithium-Ion BatteriesThere are several types of polymer binders that are used in lithium-ion batteries. One of the most commonly used types is polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), which is a high-performance fluoropolymer that is known for its excellent mechanical properties and chemical resistance. Other types of polymer binders include polyacrylonitrile (PAN), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), and styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).5. Impact of Polymer Binders on Battery PerformanceThe polymer binder can have a significant impact on the performance of the lithium-ion battery. For example, the choice of polymer binder can affect the mechanical strength, adhesion, and porosity of the electrode. Additionally, the polymer binder can impact the battery's cycling stability, rate capability, and capacity retention.6. Challenges with Polymer BindersHowever, there are also some challenges associated with using polymer binders in lithium-ion batteries. For example, the polymer binder must be able to withstand the chemical and electrochemical reactions that occur during the charge and discharge cycles. Additionally, the polymer binder must be compatible with the other materials used in the battery, including the electrolyte and the current collector.7. Innovations in Polymer Binder TechnologyScientists and engineers are constantly working to improve the performance of lithium-ion batteries through innovative materials and designs. One area of research is focused on developing new polymer binders that can improve the cycling stability and rate capability of the battery. Some of the promising innovations include the use of functionalized polymers, conductive polymers, and nanostructured polymer composites.8. Polymer Binders and SustainabilityAs the use of lithium-ion batteries continues to grow, there is increasing awareness of the importance of sustainability and environmental impact. One concern is the use of toxic solvents and chemicals in the production of polymer binders. However, there are efforts underway to develop environmentally friendly and sustainable polymer binders, such as those derived from natural sources like cellulose and chitosan.9. ConclusionPolymer binders are an essential component of lithium-ion batteries, helping to hold the active materials in place within the electrode and improving the battery's performance and lifespan. Although there are challenges associated with polymer binders, researchers are working to develop new and innovative solutions to overcome these obstacles and improve the sustainability of lithium-ion batteries.10. Related Long-Tail SEO KeywordsWhat is the role of polymer binders in lithium-ion batteries?How do polymer binders impact battery performance?Types of polymer binders used in lithium-ion batteriesChallenges with polymer binders in lithium-ion batteriesInnovations in polymer binder technology for lithium-ion batteriesAdvantages and disadvantages of polymer binders in lithium-ion batteriesThe importance of sustainable and environmentally friendly polymer binders for lithium-ion batteriesUnderstanding the chemistry of polymer binders in lithium-ion batteriesPolymer binders and their impact on the cost of lithium-ion batteriesThe future of polymer binders in lithium-ion batteriesQuote InquiryContact us

IntroductionCOMSOL and Ansys are two of the best simulation software available on the market today. These software packages provide users with powerful tools for analyzing a wide range of physical phenomena, such as structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, and electromagnetic fields.Both packages offer state-of-the-art simulation technologies, but how do they compare? In this article, we'll take a closer look at Which is better, COMSOL or Ansys?.1. User InterfaceThe user interface (UI) of a software package is one of the most important aspects of its overall design. It determines how easy the software is to use and how quickly new users can learn to use it. The UI of COMSOL is considered more intuitive and user-friendly than that of Ansys, making it a popular choice among new users.2. Simulation EfficiencyEfficiency is one of the most important factors when it comes to simulation software. In terms of speed and accuracy, Ansys is considered slightly better than COMSOL. Ansys's robust solvers and strength in parallel processing and distributed computing make it more efficient than COMSOL, which is a crucial factor for large and complex models.3. Planned ApplicationsIf you're a user with a specific application in mind, it may be worth researching which simulation software package is better suited for your intended use. For example, if your focus is on analyzing fluid flow, COMSOL is a better option. On the other hand, if your focus is on analysis in the field of mechanical or aerospace engineering, Ansys may be a better choice, as it can handle complex geometry quite well.4. Support and ResourcesWhen it comes to support and the availability of resources, both COMSOL and Ansys are well-supported packages. Both have large online communities where users can ask questions and find answers. COMSOL also provides extensive documentation and video tutorials. On the other hand, Ansys provides an extensive Knowledge Base while grouping in a user forum which also provides a support center for answering questions and providing resources to its users. 5. Learning CurveThe learning curve associated with any software package can be a significant consideration when deciding which tool to use. Both COMSOL and Ansys involve a considerable number of features and tools and learning them in-depth will take some time. However, as stated before, COMSOL offers a more intuitive UI, allowing new users to use the software with higher ease. 6. CustomizationThe ability to customize simulation software is priceless. A software package with a high level of customization may allow users to augment their model to procedures and achieve the exact outputs they are aiming for. COMSOL has the upper hand when it comes to customization, as it provides easy access to customize your model. 7. Stability and CompatibilitySimulations may take time running, being an error by no means is a desirable situation. To minimize this risk, both packages need to be stable. Stability also implies compatibility, which allows users to open their models in different versions of the same software. In regards to stability and compatibility, Ansys excels when compared with COMSOL. 8. Price ComparisonThe cost of licenses for simulation software is a significant expense. This fact yields cost a piece of significant consideration when selecting which tool suits the user's needs better. In comparison to Ansys, COMSOL is an inexpensive option for small companies and individual users. However, for large organizations or projects, Ansys licenses may make better financial sense overall. Price can also be a significant consideration when comparing packages that offer similar features and capabilities.9. User ExperienceUsers often report their experience with software after months of use. COMSOL is user-friendly, and many users have reported ease of use, particularly for new users who do not have a technical background. Ansys experiences a greater learning curve but has shown to attain the very same level of satisfaction from users with equally long hours of use time. 10. Final VerdictIt is difficult to determine which software package is objectively better, as it largely depends on the planned use of the software by each user and the technical expertise they bring with them. However, based on the comparisons above, it appears that Ansys is better suited for complex models and requires a workforce with significant knowledge in simulation procedures. On the other hand, COMSOL requires less technical knowledge, is more user-friendly, and is more likely to cater to a broader range of application needs.simulation software packages, physical phenomena, structural mechanics, fluid dynamics, electromagnetic fields, COMSOL, Ansys, simulation technologies, solvers, parallel processing, distributed computing, mechanicals, aerospace, engineeringWhich is Better, COMSOL or Ansys? A Comprehensive Comparison GuideIn this article, we'll take a closer look at which simulation package is better, COMSOL or Ansys? We'll compare both packages in terms of efficiency, user interface, simulations, price, and software stability. Quote InquiryContact us

As renewable energy gains popularity, lithium-ion batteries have become a critical component of powering everything from electric vehicles to home power storage units. Lithium-ion batteries have the ability to hold a large amount of energy, and they are rechargeable. One potential issue with these batteries, however, is the formation of dendrites. What are Dendrites?Dendrites are tiny, branch-like structures that form on the surface of a battery’s electrodes. These structures are made up of lithium that has separated from the electrodes, and they can grow over time. Dendrites can cause the battery to malfunction, and in some cases, they can be dangerous. How Do Dendrites Form in Lithium-Ion Batteries?Lithium-ion batteries rely on a chemical reaction between the anode and cathode. When the battery is charging, lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode. During discharge, the ions move back to the cathode. Over time, the repeated movement of ions can cause the formation of tiny cracks in the electrodes. These cracks provide a pathway for the lithium ions to travel through, which can result in the formation of dendrites. What Causes the Growth of Dendrites?Once the dendrites begin to form, they can continue to grow as more lithium ions are deposited on their surfaces. Dendrites can also grow more quickly when the battery is charged too quickly or discharged too rapidly. High temperatures can also increase the rate of dendrite growth. What are the Risks of Dendrite Formation?When dendrites grow too large, they can pierce the separator between the anode and cathode, causing a short circuit. This can result in the battery overheating, catching fire, or exploding. Dendrites can also lead to the formation of a solid-electrolyte interface (SEI) layer. This layer can block the flow of lithium ions and decrease the battery’s overall performance. How Can We Prevent Dendrite Formation?Preventing dendrite formation is critical to ensuring the long-term performance and safety of lithium-ion batteries. One way to prevent dendrites is to use a porous anode material that can absorb the lithium ions as they move through the battery. Another approach is to use a solid electrolyte that can prevent the growth of dendrites. Researchers are also exploring new electrode and electrolyte materials that can reduce the risk of dendrite formation. What Happens if Dendrites Form?If dendrites do form, there are a few potential solutions. One option is to use a separator that has a higher melting point. This can help to prevent the battery from overheating or catching fire if a short circuit occurs. Another solution is to use a coating on the electrodes that can help to reduce the growth of dendrites. How Can We Monitor Dendrite Formation?Monitoring dendrite formation is critical to identifying potential problems early on. One way to monitor dendrite growth is to use imaging techniques like electron microscopy. These techniques allow researchers to observe the growth of dendrites in real-time. What Are the Long-Term Implications of Dendrite Formation?If dendrites continue to form over time, they can reduce the battery’s ability to hold a charge. This can lead to the battery losing its ability to power a device for as long as it once did. In some cases, the dendrites can cause the battery to fail altogether. What Can We Learn From Dendrite Formation?Dendrite formation is an ongoing challenge for researchers and battery manufacturers. While dendrites can be dangerous, they also provide valuable insights into the inner workings of lithium-ion batteries. By understanding how dendrites form and how they impact battery performance, we can work to develop new materials and designs that can improve the safety and reliability of these critical energy storage devices. Quote InquiryContact us

The Basics of Electrodes in Lithium-ion BatteriesIf you own a phone or laptop, the battery powering it is probably a lithium-ion battery. These types of batteries are known for their long-lasting power, quick charging time, and excellent energy density. But have you ever wondered how they work? In this article, we'll explore the electrodes of a lithium-ion battery and how they contribute to its functionality. What is a Lithium-ion Battery?A lithium-ion battery is a rechargeable battery that uses lithium ions as a primary component of its electrochemistry. Lithium-ion batteries are commonly used in portable electronics, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. They are also present in electric vehicles, drones, and energy storage systems. The Anatomy of a Lithium-ion BatteryA typical lithium-ion battery consists of four main components: electrodes, electrolyte, separator, and current collectors. The two electrodes, anode, and cathode are the heart of the battery, where chemical reactions take place, generating energy. What are Electrodes?Electrodes are conductive materials that allow the flow of electrons in and out of the battery. In a lithium-ion battery, the anode is made of carbon, while the cathode is made of lithium and other metal oxides, such as cobalt, nickel, or manganese.Anode: Negative ElectrodeThe anode is considered the negative electrode, and it releases electrons when the battery discharges. The anode in a lithium-ion battery is made of a thin layer of graphite, allowing for the insertion and removal of lithium ions during charging and discharging. Cathode: Positive ElectrodeThe cathode is considered the positive electrode, and it gets charged with lithium ions during the battery's charging cycle. The cathode of a lithium-ion battery is typically made of a metal oxide, such as lithium cobalt oxide (LCO), lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (NCA), or lithium manganese oxide (LMO).The Electrolyte: Lithium-ion Conductive MediumThe electrolyte is a lithium-ion conductive medium that facilitates the movement of lithium ions between the anode and cathode during the charging and discharging cycle. It is a liquid or gel-like substance that separates the electrodes and allows ions to move back and forth between them.The Separator: Keeping Electrodes SeparateThe separator is a thin porous plastic film that sits between the anode and cathode to keep them separate and prevent short circuits. The separator allows the lithium ions to move back and forth while preventing direct contact between the two electrodes. How do Electrodes Work in a Lithium-ion Battery?During the charging process, the lithium ions move from the cathode to the anode, where they are stored in the carbon. When you use the battery, the ions travel back to the cathode, where they react with the metal oxide, generating energy. The Future of Lithium-ion BatteriesLithium-ion batteries are continuously being improved, with research focused on making them more efficient, lightweight, and cheaper to manufacture. Researchers are investigating new electrode materials, such as silicon and lithium-sulfur, to increase the energy density and lifespan of these batteries. Quote InquiryContact us

A lithium-ion battery is a popular type of rechargeable battery that is widely used in various industries. Its high-energy density, low self-discharge rate, and long cycle life make it the preferred choice for electric vehicles, portable electronics, and stationary energy storage applications. But have you ever wondered what the positive pole material in a lithium-ion battery is? In this article, we will dive into the specifics of what the positive pole material is, why it is important, and how it affects the performance and characteristics of a lithium-ion battery.The Basics of a Lithium-Ion BatteryBefore we discuss the positive pole material of a lithium-ion battery, let’s first understand the basic components and principles of this type of battery. A typical lithium-ion battery consists of a negative electrode (anode), a positive electrode (cathode), a separator, and an electrolyte. When the battery is charged, lithium ions flow from the positive electrode to the negative electrode through the separator, which is usually a porous film that prevents the two electrodes from touching each other. When the battery is discharged, the lithium ions flow from the negative electrode to the positive electrode, generating an electrical current that can power a device. The energy storage capacity and performance of a lithium-ion battery depend on the materials used in its electrodes and electrolyte, as well as the design and manufacturing process.The Role of the Positive Pole MaterialThe positive pole material, also known as the cathode material, is one of the two electrodes in a lithium-ion battery. Its main function is to store and release lithium ions during charge and discharge cycles. The specific chemical composition and structure of the positive pole material determine its voltage, energy density, power density, and safety characteristics. Therefore, choosing the right positive pole material is crucial for the performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of a lithium-ion battery for a specific application. Some of the most commonly used positive pole materials in lithium-ion batteries are:Lithium Cobalt OxideLithium cobalt oxide (LiCoO2) is one of the first positive pole materials used in commercial lithium-ion batteries. It has a high specific energy density and stable cycling performance, but it is expensive and has some safety issues related to thermal stability and oxygen release. LiCoO2 is typically used in consumer electronics and medical devices that require high energy density and relatively low power.Lithium Manganese OxideLithium manganese oxide (LiMn2O4) is a less expensive and safer alternative to LiCoO2. It has a lower specific energy density but higher power density, making it suitable for applications that require high power and moderate energy, such as power tools and hybrid cars. It also has excellent thermal stability and good cycling performance but is prone to structural degradation and capacity fading over time.Lithium Iron PhosphateLithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) is another popular positive pole material for lithium-ion batteries. It has a lower specific energy density than LiCoO2 but higher power density and thermal stability. It is also safer and more environmentally friendly than other positive pole materials, as it contains non-toxic and abundant elements. LiFePO4 is commonly used in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and backup power systems that require high power and safety.Lithium Nickel Manganese Cobalt OxideLithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (LiNiMnCoO2), also known as NMC, is a versatile positive pole material that combines the advantages of LiCoO2, LiMn2O4, and LiNiO2. It has a high specific energy density, good power density, and excellent cycling performance. It is also less expensive than LiCoO2 and has a longer lifespan than LiMn2O4. NMC is used in a wide range of applications, from electric bikes and drones to grid-scale energy storage systems.Lithium Nickel Cobalt Aluminum OxideLithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide (LiNiCoAlO2), also known as NCA, is a positive pole material that is similar to LiCoO2 in terms of energy density and voltage but has a higher thermal stability and lifespan. NCA is used primarily in electric vehicles and some consumer electronics that require high energy density and power, such as laptops and smartphones.ConclusionIn summary, the positive pole material in a lithium-ion battery plays a critical role in its performance, safety, and cost. The choice of positive pole material depends on the specific application requirements and trade-offs between energy density, power density, thermal stability, lifespan, and cost. Some of the most common positive pole materials in lithium-ion batteries include lithium cobalt oxide, lithium manganese oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide, and lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide. Choosing the right positive pole material is an important factor in maximizing the efficiency and reliability of lithium-ion batteries.Quote InquiryContact us

backdropThe driving range has always been the main bottleneck restricting the development of new energy vehicles, which depends on the energy density of the battery. The energy density of the battery is basically determined by the material system of the positive and negative electrodes. At present, the lithium battery has undergone multiple iterations, and the main upgrade is the positive electrode material. The power battery bms has been upgraded from the initial lithium iron phosphate to 523 and 622 (three numbers represent the proportion of nickel, cobalt and manganese) in the ternary lithium battery, and then to the present 811, which is the high nickel ternary. It is expected to be further upgraded to lithium-rich manganese based materials in the future. The negative electrode material did not achieve a good breakthrough, mainly from graphite to silicon carbon negative electrode. The upper limit of the energy density of the silicon carbon negative electrode is 400Wh/kg, and if the metal lithium is directly used as the negative electrode, the energy density is expected to reach 2600-3500Wh/kg, achieving a qualitative leap. However, the lithium metal negative electrode cannot be used with the traditional liquid electrolyte, because in the process of lithium ion charging and discharging, the liquid electrolyte is easy to form lithium dendrites, and these small crystal spikes will puncture the middle diaphragm, resulting in a short circuit of the positive and negative electrodes, which will cause the rapid rise in the temperature of the battery pack and lead to spontaneous combustion. That is to say, although lithium metal is currently the theoretical energy density of the highest negative electrode material, but limited to the safety of liquid electrolyte, it cannot be applied, and if you want to use lithium metal, you need a solid electrolyte, its conductive properties and liquid electrolyte are roughly the same, but can resist the formation of lithium dendrites, so as to achieve a substantial increase in battery energy density. This is an important reason why solid-state batteries have become mainstream. Similarly, for safety reasons, the operating voltage of the electrolyte can only be maintained at about 4.2V, which also limits the further expansion of the positive electrode material, and if the solid electrolyte is used, then the more extreme and higher energy density of the positive electrode system can be applied.The biggest difference between solid-state batteries and existing lithium batteries is that the diaphragm of solid-state batteries will be canceled, and the electrolyte will be changed from liquid to solid. In addition to the two most important advantages of safety and energy density, solid batteries have also been greatly improved in terms of automotive lightweight, cycle life, charging speed and operating temperature range. In terms of safety and energy density, the solid electrolyte completely solves the risk of spontaneous combustion of the liquid electrolyte, and after the application of the positive and negative electrode materials that are not compatible with the liquid electrolyte and have higher performance, the battery energy density is expected to break through the 500Wh/kg threshold, and then make the electric vehicle driving range of more than 1000 kilometers. In terms of automotive lightweight, the diaphragm and electrolyte together account for nearly 40% of the volume and 25% of the mass of the battery, and after they are replaced by solid electrolytes, the thickness of the battery can be greatly reduced, and after the safety is improved, the temperature control components inside the battery can be omitted, and the volume utilization rate can be further improved. In terms of cycle life, due to overcoming the lithium dendrite phenomenon, the cycle performance of solid-state batteries can reach about 45,000 times in an ideal state. In addition, the solid-state battery only takes ten minutes to fully charge, and the operating temperature range is expanded to more than three times.  Semi-solid batteries are the transition routeHowever, solid-state batteries still have problems such as poor performance due to low ionic conductivity and high cost, so they are 5-10 years away from mass production. Solid-state battery electrolyte and electrode is a solid-state interface, it is difficult to form as close and sufficient contact as solid-liquid interface, which is not conducive to the transmission of lithium ions between positive and negative electrodes, affecting the battery performance, and by adding part of the electrolyte inside the solid state battery can improve the interface contact resistance, so the future technological development of solid state battery adopts a gradual transformation strategy. That is, the electrolyte content is gradually reduced, and finally solid electrolyte is used. According to the solid-liquid ratio of the electrolyte, the solid-state battery can be divided into semi-solid, quasi-solid and all-solid three, and the proportion of solid electrolyte increases in turn. Based on high safety, high compatibility with existing production lines and good economy, semi-solid batteries have become the best choice for the transition from liquid batteries to all-solid-state batteries, and it is expected that large-scale production can be achieved before 2025.In fact, semi-solid batteries do not help much to improve energy density, and the short-term driving factor is mainly the improvement of safety, especially in the risk test for external impact, external heating, internal short circuit and other problems, solid-state batteries perform far better than liquid batteries. In addition, the semi-solid battery is highly compatible with the traditional soft-pack battery production line in production and manufacturing, mainly on the basis of the original process to increase the in-situ solid-state process to achieve rapid switching, so the semi-solid state has the conditions for rapid volume in the short term, which is also the main reason why the semi-solid battery can be assembled to so many models this year. Incremental investment opportunity ElectrolyteThe electrolyte is still used in the semi-solid battery, which is mainly composed of solute lithium salt, organic solvents and additives, of which the solute lithium salt largely determines the operating temperature and safety of the lithium battery. At present, the mainstream electrolyte with LiPF6 (lithium hexafluorophosphate) as lithium salt may produce gas at high temperatures, which cannot meet the requirements of fast charging, while LiFSI (difluorosulfonimide) has the advantages of high conductivity, high chemical stability and high thermal stability. The electrolyte with LiFSI as lithium salt can better meet the development needs of solid state batteries with high energy density and wide operating temperature, so it is considered to be the next generation of lithium salt that is most likely to replace LiPF6. However, due to the complex production process, low yield and high cost of LiFSI, it has not been directly used as a solute lithium salt, but as a solute additive and LiPF6 mixed to improve the performance of the existing electrolyte. In the future, as technological progress drives down its cost, LiFSI is expected to gradually replace LiPF6, taking Tesla's newly launched high energy density battery 4680 battery as an example, the addition ratio of LiFSI increased from 3% to 15%, which is 5 times that of ordinary three-way batteries.There are various synthetic routes for LiFSI, of which the core intermediate difluorosulfonimide requires the use of sulfoxide chloride as a chlorinating agent, so sulfoxide chloride is the core raw material for LiFSI production and will benefit from the growth of LiFSI demand. However, due to the influence of the national environmental two and one capital restriction policy, the production capacity planning of sulfoxide chloride will hardly increase significantly. If sulfoxide chloride is very scarce in the future, its production capacity planning will only tilt to a few head enterprises with mature technology and less pollution in the production process. Electrolyte additivesIn addition, the supply chain of the semi-solid battery and the existing liquid battery is very high, and the positive and negative electrode materials have not changed fundamentally, mainly for the electrolyte to increase the in-situ solid-state process, which is simply to ensure a good interface contact between the electrode and the electrolyte through liquid injection first, and then gelate the electrolyte through external heating and other ways. Thus solving the problem of poor contact between solid and solid interfaces. In situ solid-state process requires additional special electrolyte additives for this process, of which the lithium additives are LiTFSI (lithium trifluoromethylsulfonimide), so LiTFSI manufacturers directly benefit. Negative electrodeSince the semi-solid battery still contains liquid components, it is still not possible to directly use metal lithium as a negative electrode, which means that some additional processing is needed to improve the electrical performance of the overall battery, and the commonly used is the negative pre-lithium treatment. The function of negative electrode prelithium is to offset the irreversible lithium loss caused by the formation of SEI film by replenishing lithium on the electrode material, so as to improve the total capacity and energy density of the battery, and the domestic companies that have laid out prelithium technology mainly have Guoxun High-tech and Yiwei Lithium Energy. Solid electrolyteIn addition to the electrolyte and the negative electrode, for the solid state battery industry, the most critical point is the development of solid electrolytes, the current mainstream technology path there are three main, respectively, polymers, oxides and sulfides, of which polymers belong to organic electrolytes, the last two belong to inorganic electrolytes.The development time of the polymer is the earliest, the advantage is that it is easy to process, can be compatible with the production equipment and process of the existing electrolyte, and has good mechanical properties and is relatively soft. However, its electrical conductivity is low, and it needs to be heated to 60 degrees to work normally; At the same time, due to the relatively poor high pressure resistance and thermal stability of this material, it can not adapt to the positive electrode system with higher energy density, so it does not meet the iterative trend of positive and negative electrode materials. At present, polymers are mainly made into composite materials with oxides to improve the overall performance of batteries.Just said, the solid state battery due to solid contact leads to low conductivity, and the conductivity of sulfide is the closest to the liquid electrolyte in the three technical routes, and its overall material is relatively soft, so the contact with the negative electrode is better, but there are still big difficulties in the process. First of all, its own production involves more complex sintering methods, resulting in its yield is generally low; Secondly, because the sulfide is easy to react with water and oxygen in the air to produce hydrogen sulfide highly toxic gas, it is also necessary to strictly control the production, such as the production requires an inert gas atmosphere, but this will increase the cost, and to synthesize the sulfide electrolyte requires the use of lithium sulfide precursor, and the cost of lithium sulfide precursor is also very expensive. Therefore, the production cost of sulfide electrolytes is much higher than the other two reasons, although technically sulfide is the most promising solid electrolyte for mass production, but considering the cost problem, there is still a long way to go from the real commercialization.In terms of global layout, the research and development of solid-state batteries is mainly concentrated in five countries and regions of China, Japan, Korea, the United States and Europe. China mainly takes the oxide route; Both Japan and South Korea are developing sulfide systems with national efforts. At present, Toyota of Japan is the company with the largest number of sulfide all-solid-state battery patents in the world, while the representative companies of South Korea mainly include LG Chemical, Samsung and PoSCO. In the United States, startups are the mainstay, and several routes are being promoted at the same time. Among the mainstream startups, Ionic Materials is based on polymer Solid system, Solid Power is based on sulfide system, and Quantum Scape is based on oxide system. Europe is the first region to promote the industrialization of polymer solid-state batteries, but based on the disadvantages of the above polymers, the final polymer did not form a trend, and now Europe has turned to investment, Volkswagen, BMW and Mercedes-Benz and other famous automakers have invested in the United States solid-state battery-related companies.Encapsulation mode BinderIn terms of process system, the adjustment of semi-solid batteries to the entire production line is relatively small, while the change of all-solid batteries will be relatively large, and one of the largest iterative direction is dry electrode technology. Unlike the traditional wet process used in lithium battery manufacturing, the dry electrode technology does not use solvents, and directly binds a small amount of PTFE binder and conductive agent to the positive and negative electrode powder, forming a thin electrode material strip through an extruder, and then laminates the electrode material strip onto the metal foil collector fluid to form the finished electrode.This technology is more suitable for the iterative trend of the next generation material system. For the negative electrode, because there is no need to add solvent and do not worry about the reaction between lithium metal and it, the pre-replenishment lithium technology can be implemented smoothly; For the positive electrode, it is easier to use higher energy density positive electrode materials such as ultra-high nickel. At the same time, because the solid binder PTFE used in dry electrode technology has elasticity, it can effectively solve the problem of separation from the electrode sheet caused by the expansion of the silicon-based negative electrode, and the cycle life will be several times increased. In terms of cost, compared with the wet process, the dry process completely skips the step of adding the solution, thus eliminating the complicated coating and pole sheet links, reducing the manufacturing cost, and also has a cost advantage in the input of drying equipment and the floor area of the factory.Dry electrode technology has been used in the all-solid state production mode announced by Samsung, and recently Tesla has made a breakthrough in this technology, the United States Patent and Trademark Office granted Tesla four patents in the field of battery dry electrode, 4680 battery also adopted this technology, and its cost advantage is expected to lay the foundation for the mass production of subsequent 4680 batteries. Since PTFE binders are critical to dry cell technology, producers of PTFE binders are expected to benefit.