AEROSIL® fumed silica for lithium ion batteries

Lithium ion batteries are used for various applications including such as portable communication devices and power tools but also as large battery assembly in the new up-coming market of hybrid electrical vehicles (HEV) and aerospace.

Li ion battery technology offers distinct advantages over other batteries especially their excellent energy-to-weight ratio. Therefore they are thinner, lighter and generally achieve longer operating times than many other rechargeable batteries currently in the market. Li ion batteries can be shaped into various forms and sizes and therefore can be fitted into the available space of the very device. Additionally they show no memory effect and a low self-discharge rate.

A special niche within Li ion batteries are Li polymer batteries. These batteries often contain a gelled electrolyte and are absolutely spill proof. 

AEROSIL^® fumed silica and AEROXIDE^® fumed metal oxides are applied in lithium ion batteries for the following effects:

Thickening and reinforcing effect

• Stabilization of polymer gel electrolyte for good processability
• Gelation aid for the electrolyte without reducing the conductivity
• Good dimensional stability to avoid damaging of the layers during manufacturing process
• Gel-type structure to avoid leakage

Adhesion effect

• Improvement of adhesion properties between cathode and electrolyte as well as anode and electrolyte
• Additionally improvement of the conductivity

Permeability of the battery separator layer

• Adjustment of porosity of the separator film
• Upkeep of electrolyte in the separator film

Thermal stability

• Reduction of thermal deformation of layers

Raw material

• Use as reactant for the formation of anode material Li titanate