Investigation Of Laser-Based Drying Of Electrodes For Lithium-Ion-Battery Production Using Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers (VCSEL)

Abstract

Demand for lithium-ion batteries is expected to increase significantly within the upcoming decade. This trend is already evident today. Accordingly, an increasing number of new production lines as well as extensions of existing production lines can be observed. To reduce global CO2 emissions and maintain competitiveness, the development of new, more efficient production technologies is essential. At the same time, innovative production methods can make a decisive contribution to significantly improve the quality and performance of lithium-ion batteries. Currently, the convection drying technology marks the state of the art in drying the wet-coated electrode foils. Accounting for approximately one quarter of the total energy consumption in battery production, this technology represents one of the most cost-intensive process steps along the value chain. A promising approach to increase quality and efficiency of electrode drying is the use of vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSEL). In addition to the improved controllability compared to conventional drying processes, these also offer the advantage of a direct energy contribution that is tailored to the material. Furthermore, the exceptionally high-power density enables a reduction in machine footprint while simultaneously increasing production throughput. In this study, the general experimental setup for vertical drying of electrodes using VCSEL technology is described. Furthermore, the main results are presented and discussed in order to derive subsequent conclusions for further improvements in quality and energy efficiency in the drying process of electrodes for lithium-ion batteries.