Fraunhofer Research Institution for Battery Cell Production FFB
Fraunhofer Research Institution for Battery Cell Production FFB

Extrusion tests for electrode paste

Background and motivation

 

The battery market offers diversification opportunities for many companies: Be it in the production chain or in the life cycle. Our project partner is making the transition from a product-centric to a customer-centric organization in order to be able to offer its customers holistic solutions in the field of battery production. However, this change can only be successfully managed with a deep understanding of customer processes. To further strengthen its competitive position, KraussMaffei is considering expanding its business activities into the battery sector. At the same time, KraussMaffei has extensive experience in plastic extrusion, which is why the extrusion of electrode slurries was chosen as a focus.

 

Approach

  1. Site visit to inspect the equipment at the pilot plant and to plan in detail the execution of the tests.
  2. Kick-off and definition of further project objectives and expectations.
  3. Provide a suitable formulation, material selection, and preparation at KraussMaffei Technical Centre.
  4. Procurement, preparation, and packaging of raw materials and measuring equipment for analysis.
  5. Perform the tests, evaluate the results, and make recommendations for action.
  6. Running the test series and providing on-site operational support during the tests. 
  7. Sampling and analysis with subsequent reporting and recommendations for action.
© Studio Wiegel
Bei die Slurrypaste wird angemischt. Dabei kommt es auf die richtige Rezeptur an.

Results

The partner in the project received an introduction to lithium-ion battery technology, covering its operation, components, cell formats, characteristics, and value chains. The seminar also explored the present market landscape, including the manufacturers, consumers, location factors, market size, growth, and cost structure. In addition, it provided an understanding of the complete manufacturing process of lithium-ion battery cells, from electrode production to cell assembly and refinement, as well as the components of battery modules and packs. Following the battery value chain, we gave also a glimpse into future battery and battery manufacturing technologies, as well as second-life and battery recycling.

After that, we defined the objectives for extrusion testing. In addition, the details and specifics of the extruders were discussed in detail and documented. The extrusion tests were carried out and the results were carefully documented. Based on the successful extrusion tests, which met the requirements for electrode paste production, the final report is now being prepared. This report will contain the detailed results and conclusions of the trials and provide an assessment of the performance of the extrusion process.

Der Extruder im FFB Workspace
© Studio Wiegel
Projektpartner

KraussMaffei

KraussMaffei is one of the world's leading manufacturers of machines and systems for the production and processing of plastics and rubber. The product and service range includes all technologies of injection molding, extrusion, and reaction process machinery. Industries include the automotive industry, the construction industry, medical technology, refrigeration technology, and the consumer goods industry.

 

4,700 employees, headquarters in Munich, and sales of 1.37 billion euros (2022).