In a lithium-ion battery, the smallest unit of each cell consists of two electrodes (anode and cathode), and the separator. The ion-conducting electrolyte is located in between. Typically, the main component of the anode is graphite.
However, graphite’s limited electrical conductivity can cause inefficiencies in charge and discharge cycles. To boost the anode’s performance, the coating system is applied to a thin copper foil.
The active material of a cathode consists largely of a lithium transition metal oxide compound. While these materials have good energy storage capabilities, they can be chemically reactive and degrade over time.
To improve stability and lifespan, the cathode coating system is applied to a thin aluminum foil. This foil and the corresponding coating system reduce or prevent undesirable side reactions and chemical degradation, ensuring the battery’s long-term stability and cycle life.
Overall, the coating system on the aluminum foil plays a vital role in ensuring the stability and safety of the cathode in a lithium-ion battery and preventing dendrite formation.
The adhesive strength of the coatings on the metal foils is one vital indicator for the overall performance of the lithium-ion battery.
The adhesion analyser LUMiFrac^® is successfully utilized to determine the adhesive strength of coatings on copper foils for anodes and of aluminum foil coatings for cathodes in lithium-ion batteries.
A time saving of up to 80% can be achieved since, in contrast to other comparative methods, no clamping is required and up to 8 samples can be tested in parallel.

Please find additional information on

Key control characteristics for energy materials (e.g., battery, fuel cell ink)

& how these are analysed by using further LUM instruments in the download file.