All About Battery Separators
Polymer separators, initially adapted from existing technologies, have been crucial in advancing lithium-ion batteries. Yoshino[1] (The Nobel Prize in Chemistry 2019) and his team at Asahi Kasei first used these separators in 1983, with lithium cobalt oxide as the cathode and polyacetylene as the anode. In 1985, a key discovery showed that using graphite as the anode significantly improved battery stability, leading to the portable devices we use today, such as cell phones and laptops.
But the journey didn't stop there. To enhance safety, Yoshino developed a microporous polyethylene membrane separator with a "fuse" function, which shuts down the battery in case of overheating. This innovation addressed critical safety concerns and prevented potential hazards.
As technology progressed, separators became thinner and more porous, made from materials like polyolefin, nonwoven fabric, and ceramic coatings. These modern separators prevent short circuits, enhance ion conduction, and provide thermal stability. They are now essential in various applications, from lithium-ion and lead-acid batteries to electric vehicles and portable electronics.
Properties of Battery Separators:
- High mechanical strength
- Excellent chemical stability
- High porosity
- Good thermal stability
- Effective ion conductivity
Applications of Battery Separators:
- Lithium-ion batteries
- Sodium-ion batteries
- Nickel-metal hydride batteries
- Lead-Acid Batteries
- Redox Flow Batteries
- Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
- Magnesium-Ion Batteries
Beyond Battery's separator collection includes the following types:
- Microporous Monolayer Membranes (PP)
- Ultra-Thin Cellulose Separators (Cellulose)
- Ceramic-Coated Separators (CCS) with PE base film
- Microporous Tri-layer Membranes (PP/PE/PP)
- Novel Hydrophilic Cellulose and PET Separators
- Glass Microfiber Separators
Importance of Quality Separators
The performance, safety, and longevity of a battery largely depend on the quality of its separator. However, separators are facing increasing challenges due to the rapid advancements in battery technology. Emerging innovations, such as solid-state electrolytes, which are currently in the R&D stage, are being explored as potential alternatives to traditional separators, offering even greater efficiency and safety.
At Beyond Battery, we provide high-quality separators that meet the stringent requirements of modern battery technologies, ensuring optimal performance and reliability. Meanwhile we will continually work to enhance our product offerings the cutting-edge solutions to meet the needs of the battery research industry.
For more detailed information on our range of battery products, please visit our website.
(1)Dr. Akira Yoshino