Battery manufacturers and automakers are focusing on building lighter, more cost-effective batteries that can operate in a compressed space and charge quickly and safely. As the designs of these battery systems evolve, so do the needs and challenges of each component that make it all possible.
From the high strength and stiffness required in the battery’s enclosures and modules to addressing the demanding heat and flame resistance needed across a variety of components, polymers play an important role. For example, polymers in electric vehicle (EV) batteries are specialized materials used to enhance components like separators, binders, and electrolytes, improving the battery’s stability, safety, and performance.
LyondellBasell, a global materials developer and supplier, offers specialized polymer solutions for battery technologies.
Here are just a few examples of how these materials can support EVs:
- Premi-SMC and Polyflam Premi-SMC (Sheet Molding Compounds) offer a lighter-weight alternative to traditional metals used in EV battery trays and covers. The high strength and stiffness of these lightweight composites offer flexibility for complex 3D designs that can meet structural, heat and flame requirements.
- Hostacom PP compounds can be tailored for high rigidity, excellent impact strength, dimensional stability, and high flow for thin-wall battery housing and frame designs.
- Lower operating temperatures and pressures within EVs allow lighter-weight cooling tubes extruded with Schulamid polyamide (outer layer) and Hostacom PP compounds and Pro-fax PP (inner layer) to meet requirements with lower cost.
- From housings and connectors to wire insulation, the EV electrical network has a set of demanding requirements. Schulamid grades can achieve UL ratings for flame, address thermal aging (RTI), and electrical performance. For extreme heat and flame areas, such as terminal blocks, Dura-BMC composites offer integrity to protect sensitive electronics.
From thermoplastic resins and compounds to thermoset composite solutions, the diverse polymer portfolio from LyondellBasell is uniquely positioned to address challenges in EV battery systems. To learn more about LyondellBasell EV solutions, click here.
Filed Under: Batteries, Technology News