The efficiency of lithium-ion battery production and performance both improve with the application of laser-based technologies, as demonstrated by researchers from the Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology (ILT) in Germany. These battery-enhancing systems will be showcased at Hannover Messe 2023 during April 17 through April 21.

Manufacturing these batteries entails drying graphite paste-coated copper foil for electrodes in large, energy-intensive gas-powered continuous furnaces. A more space- and energy-efficient approach is to let diode lasers perform this process. A laser with a 1 μm wavelength is deployed with an optical system to illuminate the electrode over a large area, producing a high-intensity beam that quickly heats graphite particles and evaporates liquid.

According to the researchers, “Drying with the diode laser will reduce the energy required by up to 50% and the space needed for a drying system on an industrial scale by at least 60%.”

Lasers have also been successfully applied in a scalable, industry-ready process designed to improve the power density and service lifetime of lithium-ion batteries. A high-power ultrashort pulse laser with 1 mJ of pulse energy introduces channels, or hole structures, into the battery electrode. These channels reduce the distance the lithium ions must travel and significantly shorten the charging process. Battery lifetime is also extended, as these structures prevent the formation of defects, which in turn increases the number of potential charging cycles.

Visitors to Hannover Messe 2023 can experience a demonstration of these laser technologies for battery cell production at the Fraunhofer booth (Hall 16, Booth A12).

To contact the author of this article, email shimmelstein@globalspec.com