Efficient, safe batteries are a key factor for renewable energies to gain ground in power generation, to achieve the breakthrough in e-mobility and to supplement existing energy sources. Freudenberg Performance Materials is presenting innovative solutions for various storage technologies: ultra-thin, ceramic impregnated separators for lithium-ion batteries, gas diffusion layers for fuel cells, and high-performance electrodes for redox flow batteries. Further highlights include solutions for apparel, home textiles, automotive and building interiors.

Greater safety for lithium-ion batteries

One key to the success of e-mobility is providing more efficient and safer batteries. That is why Freudenberg developed the safety separator for lithium-ion batteries. It consists of an ultra-thin PET nonwoven impregnated with ceramic particles. It remains stable at temperatures of up to several hundred degrees Celsius and does not shrink. In comparison to conventional products, it is considerably less sensitive to mechanical penetration, particularly at high temperatures. Another plus is that using the safety separator helps to reduce the production cost of lithium-ion batteries. Higher temperatures can be used allowing accelerated preparation of the battery cells through a faster drying process and increased electrolyte impregnation speed.

Mass-produced gas diffusion layers for fuel cells

Today, fuel cells are already in use in several applications and they are considered to be a key energy source of the future. Freudenberg’s gas diffusion layers help to improve the efficiency of this technology. Their high uniformity in structure and thickness increases electrical and thermal conductivity and improves the transport of gases and liquids in the fuel cell. The outstanding product features have already been proven in numerous very different customer applications. Further strengths of Freudenberg’s gas diffusion layers compared with other products are superior downstream processing and exceptional surface properties.

Higher efficiency for redox flow batteries

Redox flow batteries are in demand wherever large amounts of energy must be stored over several hours for release at any time. For example, they can stabilize the natural output fluctuations of power generation from renewable sources. They can shave peak demand from power stations and also provide high-performance energy storage in closed systems such as solar plants in isolated locations. A key aspect is optimizing efficiency. Freudenberg’s nonwoven electrodes with a unique three-dimensional fiber structure were specially developed to improve liquid circulation in these flow batteries. These innovative electrodes have a flexible design so that they can be adapted to suit customers’ wishes.

New Dimension in Thermal Insulation

In addition, Freudenberg Performance Materials will be presenting comfortemp fiberball padding. The first ever padding made from fiberballs combines the advantages of loose down fillings and padding in a quality that has not previously been achieved. For example, thermal insulation is as much as 80 percent higher than conventional padding while the new material is as light and soft as down. Lifestyle brand Napapijri will launch the “Superlight Parka” for the 2017 Fall/Winter season utilizing their owned Thermo-Fibre technology powered by comfortemp fiberball padding.

Further innovative technical textiles

Freudenberg Performance Materials will also be showcasing Evolon super-microfilament textiles for pillows, duvets, sleeping bags and other quilted products, eco-friendly carrier materials for carpet tiles and printable automotive headliners.

Freudenberg Performance Materials at Techtextil Hall 3.1 Booth F37