LG Energy Solution said Monday that its joint research team with Yonsei University has made a breakthrough in next-generation dry electrode manufacturing technology for electric vehicle batteries.
Electrodes, a key component affecting battery performance, are typically produced using a wet process that involves solvents to create a slurry, which is then coated onto a metal foil and dried. This method is energy- and time-intensive, requires substantial facility investments, and limits the energy density of the electrodes.
In contrast, the "game-changing" dry electrode process mixes active materials, conductive agents, and binders without solvents, forming electrodes in solid powder form. This innovation reduces manufacturing costs and maximizes production efficiency.
However, several technological challenges remain in commercializing dry electrodes, such as achieving uniform distribution of electrode plates, improving thick electrode technology and securing high yield rates for mass production.
The research team has analyzed these challenges, theoretically clarifying their underlying causes and proposing key solutions for large-scale application and commercialization. Specifically, they examined the integration of scalable roll-to-roll electrode manufacturing techniques, such as slurry casting and dry coating. Their findings were published in the journal Nature Energy on Feb. 26.
"Dry electrodes represent a ‘super-gap technology’ that will help us maintain a competitive edge in the global market, particularly against fast-growing Chinese battery companies," said Kim Je-young, chief technology officer of LG Energy Solution.
Meanwhile, LG Energy Solution is accelerating the development of the dry-coating process, with the goal of achieving mass production by 2028. According to Kim, the method is expected to reduce manufacturing costs by up to 30%. The company is also developing "bipolar energy" technology, an advanced version of conventional dry electrode techniques, to further enhance energy density and lower production costs.
hyejin2@heraldcorp.com
