Natural Or Treated Plant Materials Patents (Class 429/255)
  • Patent number: 12119513
    Abstract: Problem: The invention provides a separator for a lithium-ion secondary battery exhibiting excellent strength, wettability with nonaqueous electrolyte solutions, voltage endurance and cycle characteristics in lithium-ion secondary batteries, and a method of increasing the puncture depth of the separator. Solution: A separator for a lithium-ion secondary battery is formed of a microporous film comprising a polyolefin resin (A) as a major component, and a resin (B), at least portions of the surfaces of the micropores in the microporous film being coated with resin (B).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 3, 2018
    Date of Patent: October 15, 2024
    Assignees: Asahi Kasei Kabushiki Kaisha, Celgard, LLC
    Inventors: Takahiko Kondo, Kazunori Uchida, Shinya Hamasaki
  • Patent number: 11873384
    Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of a hardwood lignin, a softwood lignin, and/or a grass lignin as an antioxidant stabilizer in polymers or polymer compositions, such as, for example, thermoplastics, thermoplastic composites, thermosets, coatings, films, adhesives, personal care compositions, or any combination thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2018
    Date of Patent: January 16, 2024
    Assignee: Renmatix, Inc.
    Inventor: Jeremy Roland Austin
  • Patent number: 10964986
    Abstract: An object of the invention is to provide a separator for an electrochemical element in which the occurrence of fluff on the sheet surface thereof is suppressed and an internal short-circuit defect rate is low, and the invention provides a separator for an electrochemical element, comprising: a fibrillated solvent spun cellulose fiber; and a synthetic fiber, wherein the separator for an electrochemical element contains, as the synthetic fiber, from 5 to 40% by weight of a core-sheath type composite fiber having a fiber diameter of 6.0 ?m or less which is composed of: a core component made of a resin having a melting point of 160° C. or more; and a sheath component made of polyethylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 17, 2017
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2021
    Assignee: MITSUBISHI PAPER MILLS LIMITED
    Inventors: Keisuke Ooyama, Takao Masuda
  • Patent number: 10020124
    Abstract: A separator for electric double layer capacitor comprising a fiber sheet containing 10% by mass (relative to 100% by mass of fiber sheet) of polyvinyl alcohol fibers (fibers A) having a hot water-dissolving temperature of lower than 100° C. and higher than 85° C., the separator having a density within a range of 0.25 to 0.7 g/cm3, and a thickness within a range of not less than 5 ?m and less than 40 ?m.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 25, 2015
    Date of Patent: July 10, 2018
    Assignee: KURARAY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomohiro Hayakawa, Hiroyuki Kawai, Hideo Hayashi
  • Patent number: 9023535
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a porous membrane including cellulose fibers, wherein the surface area determined by congo red coloring of the re-dispersed cellulose fibers after the cellulose fibers of the porous membrane are re-dispersed in accordance with the re-dispersion method for normal paper specimens according to JIS P 8120 is from 100 to 300 m2/g. The porous membrane according to the present invention can provide a separator for electrochemical devices with superior properties, at a reasonable cost.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Date of Patent: May 5, 2015
    Assignee: Tokushu Tokai Paper Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Masanori Imai, Satoshi Nemoto
  • Publication number: 20150093650
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a battery separator, comprising cellulosic fibers of the lyocell genus, wherein the R10-value, the R18-value and the hemicellulose content of the lyocell fibers is as follows: R10>83%, preferably >84% R18>93%, preferably >94% Hemicellulose content <3%. The present invention furthermore relates to novel lyocell fibers useful for battery separators, as well as batteries comprising the inventive battery separator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 22, 2013
    Publication date: April 2, 2015
    Applicant: LENZING AKTIENGESELLSCHAFT
    Inventors: Marco Gallo, Peter Andrew Slater, Chris Potter
  • Publication number: 20150079479
    Abstract: Provided are a separator for a nonaqueous cell that has air permeability and is small in thickness while maintaining strength properties; and a nonaqueous cell having this separator. The separator includes a fiber sheet in which a polyvinyl alcohol fiber is incorporated in a proportion of 30% or more by mass (based on the fiber sheet). The fiber has a fiber breaking temperature in heated water of lower than 100° C. and higher than 85° C.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 25, 2014
    Publication date: March 19, 2015
    Applicant: KURARAY CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Tomohiro HAYAKAWA, Hiroyuki KAWAI, Hideo HAYASHI, Koichi KAMBE
  • Publication number: 20150064573
    Abstract: [Problem to be Solved] To provide a separator for electrochemical element that has strong mechanical strength and excellent processability, and to provide an electrochemical element using the separator for electrochemical element. [Means for Solving Problem] A separator for electrochemical element, comprising a porous sheet that contains as a main fiber, a fibrillated solvent spun cellulose fiber with an average fiber length of 0.40 to 1.10 mm, has an average internal bond strength of 60 mJ or more in a thickness direction, and has a lowest internal bond strength of 30 mJ or more in the thickness direction, a process for producing the separator, and an electrochemical element using the separator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 26, 2014
    Publication date: March 5, 2015
    Inventors: Hiroo KAJI, Toshihiro SHIGEMATSU
  • Publication number: 20150010828
    Abstract: Provided is a separator for an alkaline battery, capable of suppressing reduction in the characteristics of the alkaline battery after storage. The separator for an alkaline battery is interposed between the cathode and anode of the alkaline battery, is used to isolate the active material of both electrodes, and is configured by including 20-90 mass % cellulose fiber and having the remainder being an alkali-resistance synthetic fiber. The cellulose fiber includes a dissolving pulp.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 16, 2013
    Publication date: January 8, 2015
    Applicant: NIPPON KODOSHI CORPORATION
    Inventors: Yoshiyo Kubo, Osamu Nakajima, Kentarou Ogawa
  • Patent number: 8927133
    Abstract: An electrochemical device having a liquid electrolyte which includes a protic solvent, an anode electrode disposed in contact with the liquid electrolyte, and a cathode electrode disposed in contact with the liquid electrolyte. A membrane which interrupts the transport of ions between the electrodes at a predetermined temperature is disposed in the liquid electrolyte between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. In this way, electrochemical devices such as batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and sensors, which may overheat during use and cause a fire or explosion, are precluded from overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 7, 2013
    Date of Patent: January 6, 2015
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventor: Qinbai Fan
  • Publication number: 20140335424
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a separator for secondary battery including cellulose nanofibers, and to a method for fabricating the same. The separator has a porous structure of micropores formed between the cellulose nanofibers. The porous structure has a porosity of 10 to 80% (v/v) and a pore size of 0.01 to 10 ?m. The separator has a thickness of 5 to 30 ?m. The separator has good properties in regards to thermal stability, dimensional stability, wettability, and electrochemical stability, and the fabrication process can be simplified to reduce the production cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 8, 2011
    Publication date: November 13, 2014
    Applicant: The Republic of Korea (Forestry Administration Forestry Research Institute)
    Inventors: Sun Young Lee, Sang Young Lee, Sang Jin Chun, Geum Hyun Doh
  • Publication number: 20140272526
    Abstract: A porous separator for a lithium ion battery is disclosed herein. The porous separator includes a non-woven membrane and a porous polymer coating. The porous polymer coating is formed on a surface of the non-woven membrane, or is infused in pores of the non-woven membrane, or is both formed on the surface of the non-woven membrane and infused in pores of the non-woven membrane.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 14, 2013
    Publication date: September 18, 2014
    Applicant: GM GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY OPERATIONS LLC
    Inventor: Xiaosong Huang
  • Patent number: 8828581
    Abstract: An apparatus includes at least one battery storage compartment configured to store one or more encapsulated anodes and one or more encapsulated cathodes and at least one beverage storage compartment configured to store at least a component of a beverage. The apparatus also includes a manifold operably connected to the at least one battery storage compartment and to the at least one beverage storage compartment. The manifold is configured to receive at least one of the one or more encapsulated anodes, at least one of the one or more encapsulated cathodes, and at least a portion of the component of the beverage to form a battery that is configured to generate an electrical current.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 9, 2012
    Date of Patent: September 9, 2014
    Assignee: Empire Technology Development LLC
    Inventor: Glenn Godden
  • Patent number: 8673478
    Abstract: An electrochemical device having a liquid electrolyte which includes a protic solvent, an anode electrode disposed in contact with the liquid electrolyte, and a cathode electrode disposed in contact with the liquid electrolyte. A membrane which interrupts the transport of ions between the electrodes at a predetermined temperature is disposed in the liquid electrolyte between the anode electrode and the cathode electrode. In this way, electrochemical devices such as batteries, fuel cells, electrolyzers, and sensors, which may overheat during use and cause a fire or explosion, are precluded from overheating.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 5, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 18, 2014
    Assignee: Gas Technology Institute
    Inventor: Qinbai Fan
  • Publication number: 20140045073
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a porous membrane including cellulose fibers, wherein the surface area determined by congo red coloring of the re-dispersed cellulose fibers after the cellulose fibers of the porous membrane are re-dispersed in accordance with the re-dispersion method for normal paper specimens according to JIS P 8120 is from 100 to 300 m2/g. The porous membrane according to the present invention can provide a separator for electrochemical devices with superior properties, at a reasonable cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: February 13, 2014
    Inventors: Masanori Imai, Satoshi Nemoto
  • Publication number: 20130330637
    Abstract: The object of an exemplary embodiment of the invention is to provide a separator for an electric storage device which has small thermal shrinkage under high-temperature environment, and in which the increase of the battery temperature can be suppressed. An exemplary embodiment of the invention is a separator for an electric storage device, which comprises a cellulose derivative represented by a prescribed formula. The separator for an electric storage device can be obtained, for example, by treating a cellulose separator containing cellulose with a phosphate or a phosphite.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 21, 2012
    Publication date: December 12, 2013
    Applicant: NEC CORPORATION
    Inventors: Kazuaki Matsumoto, Kazuhiko Inoue
  • Publication number: 20130288133
    Abstract: The present invention relates to a porous membrane including cellulose fibers, wherein the cellulose fibers are obtained from a mixture of more than 50% by weight of (1) first raw material cellulose fibers having a surface area determined by congo red coloring of 250 m2/g or more and 500 m2/g or less; and less than 50% by weight of (2) second raw material cellulose fibers having a surface area determined by congo red coloring of 150 m2/g or more and less than 250 m2/g. The porous membrane according to the present invention can provide a separator for electrochemical devices with superior properties, at a reasonable cost.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 12, 2012
    Publication date: October 31, 2013
    Inventors: Masanori Imai, Satoshi Nemoto
  • Publication number: 20120183862
    Abstract: A battery separator comprising at least one nonwoven web layer is provided. The nonwoven web layer comprises a plurality of first fibers, a plurality of second fibers, and a binder. The first fibers comprise a water non-dispersible synthetic polymer and have a different configuration and/or composition than the second fibers. The first fibers have a length of less than 25 millimeters and a minimum transverse dimension of less than 5 microns. The nonwoven web layer comprises at least 10 weight percent of the first fibers, at least 10 weight percent of the second fibers, and at least 1 weight percent of the binder. The battery separator exhibits an enhanced combination of strength, durability, and ionic resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2011
    Publication date: July 19, 2012
    Applicant: EASTMAN CHEMICAL COMPANY
    Inventors: Rakesh Kumar Gupta, Melvin Glenn Mitchell, Daniel William Klosiewicz, Mark Dwight Clark, Chris Delbert Anderson, Marvin Lynn Mitchell, Paula Hines Mitchell, Amber Layne Wolfe
  • Patent number: 8097366
    Abstract: An alkaline battery separator including 25 to 62% by mass of an alkali-resistance synthetic fiber, 5 to 25% by mass of a fibrillated organic solvent-spun cellulose fiber having a Canadian standard freeness value of 10 to 280 ml, and 33 to 50% by mass of a mercerized pulp having a Canadian standard freeness value of not less than 550 ml, wherein the fibrillated organic solvent-spun cellulose fiber intertwines with the mercerized pulp.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Date of Patent: January 17, 2012
    Assignee: Kuraray Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshimitsu Harada, Hisashi Nagi, Hiroyuki Kawai, Masakazu Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 7781104
    Abstract: A thin separator paper is provided for separating a positive electrode active material and a negative electrode active material from one another in alkaline battery. The separator paper has high gas tightness, high shortage preventing effect, and low deterioration. The separator paper possesses a crystalline structure in which cellulose 1 and cellulose 2 coexist. A ratio of the cellulose 2 is controlled in relation to the cellulose 1 and the separator paper is made by using an alkali treated pulp beaten from CSF 50 ml to 0 ml, as a raw material. The separator paper has the thickness between 15 ?m and 60 ?m, the gas tightness between 10 minutes/100 ml and 800 minutes/100 ml, and the area shrinkage rate which is not greater than 2%. Also provided is an alkaline battery containing the separator paper.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 16, 2005
    Date of Patent: August 24, 2010
    Assignee: Nippon Kodoshi Corporation
    Inventors: Yoshiyo Kubo, Yoshitada Hayashi, Masahiko Ueta
  • Patent number: 7745051
    Abstract: An electrical storage system includes a first electrode, a second electrode, an insulated separator, and an electrolyte. The second electrode is spaced from the first electrode. The insulated separator is disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator further includes an agar and a fiber material. The electrolyte surrounds the first electrode and the second electrode.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 29, 2007
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2010
    Assignees: Tsinghua University, Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yuan-Peng Li, Chang-Hong Liu, Shou-Shan Fan
  • Patent number: 7556886
    Abstract: According to the present invention an improved insulator cup, or case liner, enhances electrode coil insertion by reducing the possibility of damage to the coil during insertion, protects electrode and separator from laser radiation during welding, and eases manual inspection of partially assembled components, among other advantages. The improved insulator cup includes a mechanical joint, or hinge-like feature, which pivotably couples opposing parts of the cup and greatly enhances coiled electrode insertion and subsequent component inspection prior to sealing a cover member over an electrode assembly disposed within a housing. The mechanical joint can comprise additional parts that adhere to a divided insulator cup or can be formed as an integral part of an insulator cup (e.g., a linear area of reduced thickness, of apertures, and/or perforations, etc.).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 31, 2005
    Date of Patent: July 7, 2009
    Assignee: Medtronic, Inc.
    Inventors: Paul B. Aamodt, Karl E. Hokanson, Stephanie L. Breimon
  • Patent number: 7488558
    Abstract: A battery separator for use in zinc alkaline batteries having improved mechanical strength and higher resistance to oxidation comprising cellulose that has been crosslinked with a saturated hydrocarbon group containing between four and sixteen carbon atoms.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 12, 2004
    Date of Patent: February 10, 2009
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20090017385
    Abstract: An alkaline battery separator comprising an alkali-resistance synthetic fiber, a fibrillated organic solvent-spun cellulose fiber having a Canadian standard freeness value of 10 to 280 ml, and a mercerized pulp having a Canadian standard freeness value of not less than 550 ml is prepared. In the separator, the proportion of the alkali-resistance synthetic fiber, the proportion of the fibrillated organic solvent-spun cellulose fiber, and the proportion of the mercerized pulp relative to the total amount of the separator are respectively 25 to 62% by mass, 5 to 25% by mass, and 33 to 50% by mass, provided that the total amount of the separator is 100% by mass. The alkali-resistance synthetic fiber may comprise a polyvinyl alcohol-series fiber having an average fiber fineness of not more than 1 dtex. The alkaline battery separator may further comprise a polyvinyl alcohol-series binder in a proportion of 3 to 20% by mass relative to the total amount of the separator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2006
    Publication date: January 15, 2009
    Applicant: Kuraray Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshimitsu Harada, Hisashi Nagi, Hiroyuki Kawai, Masakazu Nishiyama
  • Patent number: 7135253
    Abstract: To provide a lithium secondary battery with a high critical discharge current even under a low temperature condition, with an excellent cycle characteristic and reduced manufacturing cost. The lithium secondary battery includes a wound type electrode body comprising a positive electrode plate, and a negative electrode plate both of which have been wound around a core via a separator, the electrode body being impregnated with a non-aqueous electrolyte, and a cylindrical case for housing the electrode body and the non-aqueous electrolyte; the case having at least one opening at either end thereof, which can be sealed. The separator is subjected to drying treatment after the electrode body is inserted into the cylindrical case.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Date of Patent: November 14, 2006
    Assignee: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Nakagawa, Kenshin Kitoh, Hiroshi Nemoto, Toshihiro Yoshida
  • Patent number: 7022431
    Abstract: A method of forming an electrochemical cell is disclosed. The method comprises contacting a negative pole layer and a positive pole layer one with the other or with an optional layer interposed therebetween. The pole layers and the optional layer therebetween are selected so as to self-form an interfacial separator layer between the pole layers upon such contacting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 4, 2006
    Assignee: Power Paper Ltd.
    Inventors: Ehud Shchori, Shalom Luski
  • Patent number: 6939645
    Abstract: A separator for a valve regulated lead acid battery is composed mainly of fine glass fibers and also contains inorganic powder, beaten natural pulp, and heat-weldable organic fibers. The heat-weldable organic fibers have a fineness of 1.5 d (deniers) or less and a fiber length of 1 mm or more, and the amount of the heat-weldable organic fibers is from 3% to 15% by weight. A valve regulated lead acid battery employs the separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Date of Patent: September 6, 2005
    Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Shoji Sugiyama, Atsushi Asada, Shuhei Nagakubo
  • Patent number: 6929884
    Abstract: A film which slowly releases solids is prepared by dissolving cellulose in a solvent such as an alkali metal salt, for example L1Cl in a polar solvent such as DMAC, dispersing the solid in the solution and gelling the solution with water to form a film.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 18, 2002
    Date of Patent: August 16, 2005
    Assignee: Zinc Matrix Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20040234862
    Abstract: There is described a battery separator comprising: a porous membrane (preferably of a cellulose film) having a mean thickness less than about 25 microns (preferably 15 microns) and optionally with one or more of the following properties: a) a tensile strength when dry (measured in the transverse direction of the membrane web) of greater than about 120 Nmm−2; b) a wet ionic resistance of less than about 20 m&OHgr;.cm2; c) a membrane degree of polymerisation (D.P.) of greater than 350 chain units after being immersed for four hours in a bath of sodium hydroxide and hydrogen peroxide; and/or a) a tensile strength when dry (measured in the machine direction of the membrane web) of greater than about 200 Nmm−2. Preferred membranes comprise biopolymeric films, such as films derived from cellulose and/or polylactic acid, more preferably a regenerated cellulosic film made using NMMO as regeneration liquid.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 23, 2004
    Publication date: November 25, 2004
    Inventors: Graham Macglashan, Colin Marshall, Simon Read
  • Publication number: 20040180265
    Abstract: A separator for a valve regulated lead acid battery is composed mainly of fine glass fibers 1 and also contains inorganic powder 3, beaten natural pulp 2, and heat-weldable organic fibers 4. The heat-weldable organic fibers 4 have a fineness of 1.5 d (deniers) or less and a fiber length of 1 mm or more, and the amount of the heat-weldable organic fibers is from 3% to 15% by weight. The separator is excellent in resistance against a short circuit between a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate of the battery such as an electrochemical short circuit, for example a short circuit due to lead penetration, and a mechanical short circuit. The separator is also excellent in folding endurance, in durability against repetition of folding, and in tearing strength, and allows easy formation of envelope-like separator, thus preventing active materials from being coming off at the sides thereof.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 4, 2004
    Publication date: September 16, 2004
    Applicant: NIPPON SHEET GLASS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Shoji Sugiyama, Atsushi Asada, Shuhei Nagakubo
  • Publication number: 20040175624
    Abstract: A method of forming an electrochemical cell is disclosed. The method comprises contacting a negative pole layer and a positive pole layer one with the other or with an optional layer interposed therebetween. The pole layers and the optional layer therebetween are selected so as to self-form an interfacial separator layer between the pole layers upon such contacting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 23, 2004
    Publication date: September 9, 2004
    Applicant: Power Paper Ltd.
    Inventors: Shalom Luski, Ehud Shchori, Zvi Nitzan
  • Patent number: 6743548
    Abstract: A rechargeable, alkaline, zinc-based battery containing a stack of hydrogen permeable cellulose-based films, each one optionally containing a dispersion of metal salts. A film may contain copper salt that reacts with cellulose to prevent zinc dispersion. A second film may contain fluoride salts that react with silver ions to prevent silver plating. A third optional film contains sulfide salts that react with copper ions to form copper sulfide salts to lower copper ion concentration in the electrolyte. The stack may also contain at least one hydrogen-permeable regenerated cellulose film and at least one hydrogen permeable hydrocarbon film such as polypropylene.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: Zinc Matrix Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Patent number: 6706450
    Abstract: A separator for a valve-regulated lead acid battery consists mainly of fine glass fibers. The separator includes inorganic powder in an amount of 5 to 30% by weight and natural pulp in an amount of 3 to 20% by weight, and has a density of not less than 0.165 g/cm3. The separator sufficiently suppresses the occurrence of electrical short circuits between the positive and negative electrode plates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 7, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 16, 2004
    Assignee: Nippon Sheet Glass Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Atsushi Asada
  • Patent number: 6682854
    Abstract: Separator for silver-zinc batteries made of cellulose and containing insoluble fluoride ions which when placed next to the cathode slowly release and retard silver deposition thereon.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 27, 2004
    Assignee: Zinc Matrix Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Patent number: 6680142
    Abstract: The invention relates to a microbattery made of bioelectroactive components based on biomimetic processes. Bio-derived electron donors and electron acceptors are separately encapsulated in at least one pair of polymerized phospholipid vesicles. Embedded within the vesicle walls are lipophilic electron mediators that facilitate the transfer of electrons across the vesicle walls. Each pair of vesicles is immobilized on a conducting surface. The pair of vesicles are isolated from each other to create a galvanic cell, in which electrons flow from high to low electrochemical potential. A high energy density battery can be achieved if the vesicles are immobilized on highly porous conducting substrates.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 24, 2001
    Date of Patent: January 20, 2004
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Alok Singh, Ivan Stanish
  • Publication number: 20030224245
    Abstract: A separator for a storage battery is a microporous membrane having a back web and a battlemented rib standing on the back web.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 31, 2002
    Publication date: December 4, 2003
    Applicant: Daramic, Inc.
    Inventors: Eric H. Miller, J. Kevin Whear
  • Publication number: 20030180622
    Abstract: The present invention provide a separator for an electrochemical device which comprises a wet nonwoven fabric comprising one or more kinds of fibrillated organic fibers which are at least partially fibrillated into a fiber diameter of 1 &mgr;m or less, and one or more kinds of. unfibrillated organic fibers having a fineness of 0.5 dtex or less, which exhibits excellent heat resistance, electrolyte holding properties, internal short-circuit preventing property, and winding property, which results in a lowered internal resistance and prolonged life of an electrochemical device, and a method for producing the same and an electrochemical device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 27, 2002
    Publication date: September 25, 2003
    Inventors: Takahiro Tsukuda, Masatoshi Midorikawa, Mitsuo Yoshida, Toshihiro Shigematsu, Kazuchiyo Takaoka, Kenji Hyodo
  • Publication number: 20030165738
    Abstract: The invention concerns an alkaline Ni-Zn battery comprising both anolyte (E) partially or totally in the form of a viscous phase such as a gel, and catholyte (D) optionally in the form of a viscous phase, a microporous separator (A) between the anolyte and the catholyte, the anolyte and the catholyte having different compositions and volume, and an assembly of bipolar elements. The microporous separator is enclosed between impregnated macroporous separators (F) of the anolyte and the catholyte respectively. The total volume of the anolyte and of the catholyte is contained in the porosity of the macroporous separators and in the porosity of the electrodes. The microporous separator is for example based on cellulose or polypropylene. The inventive Ni-Zn battery has good charging/discharging cycles and low plate resistance.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 29, 2002
    Publication date: September 4, 2003
    Inventors: Guy Bronoel, Noelle Tassin, Alain Millot
  • Patent number: 6593032
    Abstract: A storage battery including an electrode and an electrolyte material, in which the electrode has a grid with a mesh area of about 50 mm2 or less and an active material provided on the grid. Accordingly, it is made possible to prevent a decrease in the negative electrode's conductivity due to a contraction of the negative electrode active material that takes place extensively when a cycle of charge and discharge is repeated particularly at high temperatures with a resulting remarkable improvement in cycle life characteristics of a lead-acid storage battery.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: July 15, 2003
    Assignee: Matsushita Electric Industrial Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuyuki Yoshihara, Yoshihiro Murata, Takashi Hattori, Akira Inanobe
  • Publication number: 20030096171
    Abstract: A low volume nonwoven separator and an electrochemical cell employing the separator are provided. The cell includes a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The nonwoven separator is disposed between the positive electrode and negative electrode. The nonwoven separator comprises, prior to insertion in the cell, a non-compressed single layer dry thickness in the range of 0.04 to 0.09 mm, and an average pore size of no greater than 14 &mgr;m. The cell further includes an electrolyte in contact with the separator and the positive and negative electrodes.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 8, 2002
    Publication date: May 22, 2003
    Inventors: Gary Lee Thrasher, Jean-Francois Audebert, Hans-Joachim Feistner, Mathias Weiss, Gunter Frey, Raoul Farer
  • Publication number: 20030087157
    Abstract: A battery separator for use in zinc alkaline batteries having improved mechanical strength and higher resistance to oxidation comprising cellulose that has been crosslinked with a hydrocarbon group containing between four and sixteen carbon atoms.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20030087158
    Abstract: To provide a lithium secondary battery with a high critical discharge current even under a low temperature condition, with an excellent cycle characteristic and reduced manufacturing cost. This lithium secondary battery includes a wound type electrode body comprising a positive electrode plate, and a negative electrode plate both of which have been wound around a core via a separator; said electrode body being impregnated with a non-aqueous electrolyte, and a cylindrical case for housing the electrode body and the non-aqueous electrolyte; the case having at least one opening at either end thereof; said at least one opening being sealed. The separator is subjected to drying treatment before assembly.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 4, 2002
    Publication date: May 8, 2003
    Applicant: NGK Insulators, Ltd.
    Inventors: Toshihiko Nakagawa, Kenshin Kitoh, Hiroshi Nemoto, Toshihiro Yoshida
  • Publication number: 20030044686
    Abstract: An electrochemical cell is presented having an improved separator disposed at the interface of the anode and cathode. In particular, the separator conforms to the contour of the electrode and is thinner than conventional separators made of non-woven fabric. The conformal separator may be formed from combinations of certain polymers and inorganic crosslinking agents.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 24, 2002
    Publication date: March 6, 2003
    Inventors: William C. Bushong, Stephanie R. Curtis, Gregory J. Davidson, David R. Mihara, Gregory S. Moy, Ernest Ndzebet, Michael J. Root, Viet H. Vu
  • Publication number: 20030036003
    Abstract: A method of forming an electrochemical cell is disclosed. The method comprises contacting a negative pole layer and a positive pole layer one with the other or with an optional layer interposed therebetween. The pole layers and the optional layer therebetween are selected so as to self-form an interfacial separator layer between the pole layers upon such contacting.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 20, 2001
    Publication date: February 20, 2003
    Applicant: Power Paper Ltd.
    Inventors: Ehud Shchori, Shalom Luski
  • Publication number: 20020182510
    Abstract: A heterogeneous, cellulose battery separator made of a mixture of cellulose and a polymer with hydrogen permeability for use in zinc-based batteries exhibiting increased hydrogen transport through the membrane while maintaining low electrical impedance and exhibiting resistance to zinc ion transport preventing zinc dendrite formation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20020182511
    Abstract: A battery separator for use in a zinc-based battery containing sulfide ions is employed to minimize copper ion diffusion into the electrodes by placing a regenerated cellulose separator next to the copper-containing layer containing low solubility sulfide salts and precipitating the copper ions.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20020182489
    Abstract: A rechargeable, alkaline, zinc-based battery containing a stack of hydrogen permeable cellulose-based films, each one optionally containing a dispersion of metal salts. A film may contain copper salt that reacts with cellulose to prevent zinc dispersion. A second film may contain fluoride salts that react with silver ions to prevent silver plating. A third optional film contains sulfide salts that react with copper ions to form copper sulfide salts to lower copper ion concentration in the electrolyte. The stack may also contain at least one hydrogen-permeable regenerated cellulose film and at least one hydrogen permeable hydrocarbon film such as polypropylene.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Publication number: 20020182512
    Abstract: Separator for silver-zinc batteries made of cellulose and containing insoluble fluoride ions which when placed next to the cathode slowly release and retard silver deposition thereon.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Publication date: December 5, 2002
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Wilson Hago
  • Patent number: 6489054
    Abstract: A battery case for a battery containing swellable cellulose separators including case members having opposed undulating mating surfaces and a rim and groove sized to space the surfaces a predetermined distance apart to form a gripping channel such that the outer portion of a stack of dry separators occupies at least 80% but no more than 98% of said channel. On injecting liquid electrolyte into the case, the separators swell and are securely gripped by said undulations and mating surface.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 19, 2001
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2002
    Assignee: Zinc Matrix Power, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael Cheiky, Glen Robles
  • Patent number: 6485867
    Abstract: The instant invention is directed to the use of lignin in thermoplastics (such as: ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE)). In the first aspect of the invention, lignins are added to a lead acid battery separator comprising a microporous membrane including an ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, a filler, and a processing oil. In the second aspect of the invention, lignins are used as a processing aid in thermoplastics.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2000
    Date of Patent: November 26, 2002
    Assignee: Daramic, Inc.
    Inventors: Jaime Navarrete, A. Jeff Chapman, Chetan J. Parikh, Roy T. Toomey