Polymer-based separator for all-solid-state batteries produced by additive manufacturing

The high demand for an efficient energy supply for various applications facilitates the development of innovative storage technologies like all-solid-state batteries in addition to novel production technologies. Compared to the conventional manufacturing process, additive manufacturing (AM) is a promising technology used for the rapid and cost-effective production of battery components containing separators. However, AM technologies like laser-based powder bed fusion of polymers (PBF-LB/P) have been neglected so far. The present research aims to fill this research gap and outline a novel approach for processing polymers like polyethylene oxide (PEO) and polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) into separators using PBF-LB/P. Optimal process parameters for manufacturing PVDF and PEO with PBF-LB/P to generate homogeneous and dense layers represent the key findings of this paper and provide a deeper process understanding. The first proof of concept for producing separator layers by PBF-LB/P in a scalable process is demonstrated as a result.