Effective Film Coating Technologies for Integration into Cell Production Processes Focusing on Improved Film Quality and Increased Process Productivity

摘要

A research and development program was carried out to develop new processing technologies for solid electrolyte and cathode films used in rechargeable and primary throwaway batteries. The cell or batteries could then be designed and adapted for use in various U.S. Army applications. The electrolyte and cathode films are the primary basis for solid polymer batteries. As such, the overall objective is to develop "best practices" for the production of the electrolyte and cathode films. With that objective in mind this program was outlined to test, trial, and experiment, solution coating technology on a pilot production scale. The purpose is to determine, demonstrate, and document the best methods for solution coating of the polymer films that are production scaleable. New production technology consists of developing and engineering slot die coating parameters that are application specific and production system alternatives with guidelines for producing repeatable precision films. An array of alternatives such as: proximity casting, direct coating, gage control, establishing effective solution drying times, and solution flow distribution enhancements are key developmental factors for efficiently producing high quality electrolyte and cathode films. For demonstrative purposes of the newly developed film production processes, solid electrolyte and cathode films were produced.