SOLUPOR^® in Lithium-ion Batteries

Not only electrode material and the electrolyte but also the separator plays an important role in improving the performance of a battery. SOLUPOR^® microporous polyethylene separators are specially developed as separator for Li-ion batteries. The very low Gurley numbers indicate that the microstructure is very open. This results in an enhanced transport of Lithium ions while still providing high puncture resistance and strength. Besides grades with a standard thickness of 25 microns, also very thin separators with thickness as low as 12 microns are developed. In comparison with other porous films SOLUPOR^® is unique in its high permeability and wettability resulting in lower ionic resistance, better rate capability, low temperature and cycle test performance.

Because of its high porosity, SOLUPOR^® has retention of 150% up to 400% for electrolytes, combining good ion conductivity with a good separation of anode and cathode, thus preventing internal short-circuiting. Because of the ultra-thin nature of the film, this makes it possible to further decrease the size of all kinds of batteries, in line with the increasing market demand for miniaturization in electrochemical cells.

Acqueous Electrolyte Battery Systems

Although being hydrophobic by nature, SOLUPOR^® separators can be made hydrophilic using various technologies, such as grafting, coating and corona treatment. Or one can use surfactants to improve wettability. Hydrophilic SOLUPOR^® separators may be used in Zinc-Air, Alkaline or Nickel Methal Hydride batteries.