17 Particle Characterisation Wettability of separator membranes
Separator membranes in lithium-ion batteries must electrically insulate the electrodes while allowing lithium-ion transport. Commercial separators are typically made from microporous polyolefi ns like polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP), which provide chemical stability and electrolyte uptake but suffer from limited thermal stability and poor wettability. To address these issues, ceramic-coated separators were developed by applying thin layers of inorganic oxides (e.g., Al₂O₃ or SiO₂) onto polyolefi n substrates. These coatings enhance mechanical strength, thermal resistance, and electrolyte wettability – critical for high-power applications such as electric vehicles. Ceramic coatings also modify surface chemistry, introducing hydrophilic and often-charged groups that improve electrolyte interaction and ionic mobility. Zeta potential measurements using the SurPASS 3 instrument reveal that ceramic-coated separators exhibit lower zeta potential magnitude (less negative surface charge) across a wide pH range, indicating improved wettability and lower interfacial resistance compared to uncoated PP. These results underscore the role of surface charge characterisation in optimising separator performance.
Summary
The characterisation of particle size, shape, and zeta potential is especially crucial when dealing with dry electrode materials. In the absence of solvents, which typically aid in particle dispersion and processing, the physical and electrochemical properties of the particles themselves must be tightly regulated. For dry-coated electrodes, parameters such as particle morphology, size distribution, and surface charge become fundamental in infl uencing key performance factors, including mechanical stability, electrical conductivity, and overall electrode packing density.
In the broader context of battery manufacturing, these characterisation techniques highlight the value of employing different characterisation methods. Each method contributes unique insights, which, when combined, enable a more thorough understanding of critical steps throughout the production process. Together, these techniques form a comprehensive and complementary toolkit, essential for ensuring quality and performance in advanced electrode manufacturing:
• Dynamic image analysis (DIA) provides detailed information on particle size and particle shape.
• Laser diffraction (LD) enables robust bulk particle size measurement for quality control.
• Dynamic light scattering (DLS) measures particle size and stability of suspension in the nanometre and micrometre range.
• Zeta potential assesses the colloidal stability of particle suspensions and evaluates the charge characteristics of membranes and solid surfaces.
Figure 11: Litesizer particle analysis portfolio and SurPASS 3 for the characterisation of particle size, shape, and zeta potential.
When applied in combination, these methods support more precise material design and process optimisation. This integrated approach is especially valuable in dry electrode manufacturing, where tightly controlled material parameters are essential for producing safer, higher-performance, and longer-lasting energy storage systems.
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www.labmate-online.com Next-gen particle analysis from nano- to millimetre
Anton Paar introduces the Litesizer series, a complete platform of particle analysers that delivers fast, precise, and flexible measurement – from nanoparticles to granules. Whether you’re working in pharma, nanotech, battery research, or materials science, the Litesizer series offers the tools to analyse particle size, shape, and zeta potential with unmatched confidence. Offering technologies such as dynamic image analysis (DIA), laser diffraction (LD), and dynamic & electrophoretic light scattering (DLS/ELS), the Litesizer family covers everything from 0.3 nm to 16,000 µm – enabling full-spectrum insight into your materials.
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Litesizer DIF 500 is a rugged laser diffraction instrument for particles from 0.01 µm to 3.5 mm. Its full-angle detection and advanced optics ensure fast, reproducible size distribution, even in challenging or high-throughput environments.
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New accessory enables precise molecular weight analysis
Testa Analytical has introduced the LS Assistant, a versatile add-on for Multiangle Light Scattering (MALS) systems that delivers highly accurate specific refractive index (dn/dc) measurements - essential for reliable molecular weight determination of polymers, proteins, and other macromolecules.
The LS Assistant simplifies dn/dc analysis with intuitive operation and minimal training requirements. Designed for full sample recovery, it allows users to collect and reuse valuable materials for further testing. Its compatibility with a wide range of solvents and integrated temperature control ensures stable, reproducible conditions across diverse applications.
Functioning as both a dn/dc and concentration measurement system, the LS Assistant features dedicated software for rapid, accurate analysis - delivering dn/dc results in minutes. Once the dn/dc value is known, the device can also determine sample concentration with precision.
A major advantage of the LS Assistant is its wavelength-matched configuration, allowing users to select a model that aligns exactly with the operating
wavelength of their light scattering system. This matching significantly enhances the accuracy of molecular weight calculations. The LS Assistant is an ideal complement to MALS, goniometers, and GPC/SEC systems in advanced macromolecular characterisation workflows. More information online:
ilmt.co/PL/Qpvy
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