LLIBTA Symposium: Large Lithium Ion Battery Technology and Application. AABC Europe 2012 - Session 1

In this session, we will review the latest developments in key Li-Ion cell materials, targeting the automotive and other large battery applications that promise to deliver enhanced performance, life, and safety, at equal or lower cost.

Session Chairman:
Martin Winter, Chair, Applied Material Science for Energy Conversion and Storage, MEET Battery Research Center, Institute of Physical Chemistry, University of Muenster

Prof. Winter's main research interests are in applied electrochemistry, materials electrochemistry and inorganic chemistry and technology. He is the past president of the International Battery Materials Association (IBA), Past Chair of the Division of Electrochemical Energy Storage and Conversion of International Society of Electrochemistry (ISE), and Technical  Editor of the Journal of The Electrochemical Society (ECS). Currently, he is the spokesperson of the LIB2015 Innovation Alliance of the BMBF (Germany Ministry of Education and Research) and a member of the German National Platform E-Mobility (NPE).

1. BASF Battery Activities: Focus on New Cathode Materials and Electrolytes
   Markus Vogt, Senior Manager Battery Materials, BASF
   Abstract 

   

   BASF has entered the LiB market as a supplier of cathode materials and electrolyte formulations. In addition, BASF also provides solvents, binders and other auxiliary chemicals to the LiB industry.

   The first part of the presentation will give an overview on BASF’s growing activities in the field of LiB covering the current portfolio of NCM, LFP and electrolytes provided by BASF.

   The second part will focus on the demanding automotive applications of LiB, especially in view of safety, lifetime, energy density and costs. All these factors generate a strong pull for improved batteries and new, advanced battery materials. BASF is intensively developing new cathode materials and electrolyte compositions for future LiB cells to further reduce costs and to increase power and energy content. The presentation will summarize recent developments in the field of High-Energy (HE)-NCM as well as High Voltage (HV) Manganese Spinel. Both cathode materials – in combination with adequate electrolyte formulations will allow higher energy densities in LiB cells at lower specific costs per kWh due to markedly reduced Cobalt and Nickel content of the cathode materials. As an alternative, LFP cathode materials have been evaluated for certain power-related applications.

   Close Abstract
2. Technological and Commercial Future of Li-Ion Cathodes and their Impact on the Value Proposition of Automotive Batteries
   Tom Van Bellinghen, Marketing & Sales Director, Rechargeable Battery Materials, UMICORE Cobalt & Specialty Materials
   Abstract 

   

   Mass market adoption of electrified drive trains will require dramatic lower $/kWh ratio´s for automotive cells. Within a cell, the cathode material is the biggest driver for this ever improving performance. A subtle balance between raw metals (and their cost fluctuations) and the performance criteria, choosing the right cathode material platform is key for future success. This presentation discusses the fundamental choices to be made and the future potential that can be unlocked by the different materials.

   Topics covered:

   • Presenting Umicore, global leader in active battery materials.
   • Cathode material impact on the total cost of ownership incl. recycling.
   • Energy approach: Which cathode material is enabling long-range, affordable EV´s.
   • Power approach: Different active materials that will cover the whole power range.
   • Going from lab scale to mass production & offering peace of mind.

   Close Abstract
3. Advances in Binder Technology for Large Lithium-Ion Batteries
   Jerome Chauveau, KYNAR & KYNAR ADX Development Department Manager, Arkema
   Abstract 

   

   As a leading producer of PVDF (polyvinylidene fluoride) with a global presence, Arkema has over 40 years experience in polymer technologies.

   The Kynar® PVDF thanks to its outstanding properties is used in a wide range of applications including new areas like the Li-ion battery and more globally in Energy applications.

   Of special interest will be Arkema’s new binder for lithium-ion batteries, Kynar® HSV 900 PVDF, a high molecular weight resin and, Kynar® ADX, a functionalized PVDF that provide improved adhesion with reduced loading in electrode constructions. This grade enhances the performance of both lithium phosphates and metal oxides.

   Kynar® PVDF resins are highly stable polymers that offer an exceptional balance of performance properties. From the beginnings of lithium technology, Arkema has worked closely with scientists to design batteries with higher charge density. From this has come Kynar® and Kynar® Flex resins that are excellent polymers for use in both polymer and liquid cell lithium batteries.

   Kynar® and Kynar® Flex resins offer key advantages compared to other polymeric binders:

   • exceptional purity, which avoids interference with electrochemical reactions;
   • high electrochemical, thermal and chemical stability;
   • easy processing (fast dissolution & good stability solution);
   • excellent adhesion within electrodes & active materials with lower binder amount.

   The Arkema R&D is now investing heavily in new technology for the next generation battery. Arkema’s advanced program is looking for alternative solutions such as:

   • an eco friendly solvent solution in order to replace the NMP;
   • a solvent-free technology for binder more environmental friendly;
   • a new generation of materials and components for high voltage cells.

   Close Abstract
4. Cost/Performance Trade-offs for Li-Ion Electrolytes
   Ralph Wise, CTO and VP of Business Development and Technology, Novolyte Technologies
   Abstract 

   

   As the xEV industry pursues lower battery costs to foster the adoption of electric drive technology, Novolyte Technologies continuously evaluates and implements ways to formulate and manufacture electrolytes to meet customer’s needs while delivering high product quality and excellent cell performance.

   This presentation will discuss performance and relative economic tradeoffs for lithium ion battery electrolyte solutions from several different perspectives. After a brief introduction of the common properties of electrolyte formulae (solvents, additives and salts, ratios and concentrations) and a short discussion of the limitations of the quality of cell materials, cell designs, manufacturing methods and application requirements to discern electrolyte performance differences, we will discuss the performance and relative economics of:

   • Different purity levels of solvents and additives
     • Examples of the influence of Cl- anion concentration in SEI additives
      
   • Characteristics of electrolyte shelf life and practical methods to extend shelf life
   • The Role of LiPF₆ Salt:
     • Cost drivers; use and handling of HF
     • Cost vs. purity vs. performance
     • Lower cost synthesis methods and materials
      
   • The presence and effectiveness of scale benefits
     • Cost differences from higher volumes vs. batch manufacturing and product mix and other manufacturing variables
      

   Close Abstract
5. Use of LiBOB Additives to Enhance the Performance of Li-Ion Batteries
   Christoph Hartnig, Global Marketing New Battery Products, Chemetall GmbH
   Abstract 

   

   Electrolytes are one of the key components of current Lithium ion batteries and are significantly more than just the mere sum of high-purity solvents plus a conductive salt; a large variety of additives is available to fine tune the properties of the electrolyte with focus on safety and performance related aspects. This role is gaining in importance with increasing requirements for lithium ion batteries for applications in electric vehicles or electrochemical grid storage solutions and the ready-made electrolyte represents a well-engineered component of the battery.

   Rockwood Lithium developed lithium bis(oxalate)-borate (LiBOB) which is successfully employed as non-toxic, non-corrosive performance additive for a series of applications and battery chemistries which are presented and discussed in this presentation.

   • Key properties of LiBOB are an excellent thermal and electrochemical stability and superior film forming properties which allow the substitution of EC by other solvents as the SEI on graphite based anodes is significantly improved by the use of LiBOB. Remarkably positive effects are observed for manganese based materials where LiBOB leads to a strongly reduced manganese dissolution even in small additive-like concentrations in LiPF₆ based electrolytes; this contributes also to an improved capacity retention at elevated temperatures and a good safety profile under overcharge conditions.
   • In order to fulfill the increasing demands and following the idea of ‘growing with the customer’ Rockwood Lithium successfully worked together with the customer to implement this new additive and at the same time increased the production capacity to significant commercial quantities.

   Close Abstract