Battery separators are critical components found in various types of batteries, serving to physically separate the anode (negative) and the cathode (positive) while allowing the flow of ions between them. These separators are typically made of materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), or ceramics that have good chemical and thermal stability. They play a crucial role in the overall performance and safety of a battery.
Figure 1.Schematic diagram of the battery[1]
Main Performance Parameters of Battery Separators
The main performance parameters of battery separators are crucial for determining the efficiency, safety, and longevity of batteries. These parameters include:
- Porosity: Porosity refers to the volume percentage of empty space within the separator structure. Typically, the porosity of a battery separator is between 35% and 60%.
- Thickness: Separator thickness affects the electrical resistance and mechanical integrity of the battery. Thinner separators help reduce internal resistance and improve battery efficiency, while thicker separators help provide better mechanical strength and safety.
- Gurley:The Gurley index measures the time needed for a specific volume of gas to pass through a certain area of the diaphragm under certain pressure conditions.The index is proportional to the internal resistance of the battery. The higher the Gurley index, the greater the internal resistance.
- Thermal Stability: Thermal stability measures the separator's ability to withstand elevated temperatures without melting or deforming. Separators with high thermal stability help prevent thermal runaway and enhance battery safety, particularly in high-temperature environments or during harsh conditions.
- Mechanical Strength: This refers to the ability of the separator to withstand mechanical stress during battery assembly and operation. Good mechanical strength is vital to prevent punctures and tears which could lead to a short circuit.
- Chemical Resistance: Chemical resistance refers to the separator's ability to withstand degradation when exposed to the electrolyte and other battery components. A chemically resistant separator maintains its properties over time, contributing to the long-term stability and safety of the battery.
- Pore Closure Temperature: This is a safety indicator that means that when the battery temperature rises to a certain point, the micropores of the separator will automatically close, thus preventing the exchange of substances between the electrodes. This indicator plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and reliability of rechargeable batteries.
Main Functions of Battery Separators
The functions of battery separators are manifold. These functions include, but are not limited to:
- Physical Separation: Separators act as a physical barrier between the anode (negative) and thecathode (positive), preventing them from coming into direct contact and thus avoiding short circuits.
- Ion Transport Facilitation: Separators have a porous structure that allows ions to pass through, which is essential for the electrochemical reactions that generate electric current.
- Electrical Insulation: While allowing ion flow, separators provide electrical insulation between the electrodes to prevent unintended electron flow, which could lead to battery failure.
- Thermal Management: Advanced separators can feature thermal shutdown capabilities, where they melt and block ion flow if the battery overheats, thus preventing thermal runaway and enhancing safety.
Choose Alfa Chemistry
At Alfa Chemistry, we are dedicated to providing top-quality battery separators that meet the diverse needs of our customers. Whether for consumer electronics, electric vehicles, or large-scale energy storage systems, our broad range of battery separators enhances the performance, safety, and longevity of batteries. If you have any needs, please contact us.
Reference
- Barbosa, J. C.;et al. Recent advances in poly (vinylidene fluoride) and its copolymers for lithium-ion battery separators. Membranes. 2018, 8(3): 45.