Rechargeable battery

Abstract

A rechargeable battery includes: an electrode assembly; a case for accommodating the electrode assembly; a hydrophilic layer on a first surface of the housing; and a hydrophobic layer on the second surface of the housing.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Aspects of embodiments of the present disclosure relate to rechargeable batteries. Background Art

[0002] Unlike non-rechargeable primary batteries, rechargeable batteries can be charged and discharged. Rechargeable batteries with low capacity are used in small portable electronic devices such as smart phones, feature phones, laptop computers, digital cameras, and camcorders. Rechargeable batteries with high capacity are used as batteries for storing electricity and as power sources for driving motors of hybrid vehicles, electric vehicles, etc. Such rechargeable batteries each include: an electrode assembly including a positive electrode and a negative electrode, a housing for accommodating the electrode assembly, an electrode terminal connected to the electrode assembly, etc.

[0003] When the rechargeable battery is discharged and / or charged, heat may be generated. In a state where heat is continuously generated, thermal runaway of the rechargeable battery may occur, which may cause a fire in a device or system in which the rechargeable battery is installed.

[0004] The above information disclosed in this Background section is for enhancement of understanding of the background of the present disclosure and therefore it may contain information that does not constitute the prior art. Summary of the invention

[0005] Embodiments of the present disclosure may involve a rechargeable battery, thereby improving fire extinguishing efficiency.

[0006] However, the aspects and features of the present disclosure are not limited to those discussed above, and those having ordinary skill in the art will more clearly understand the above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure from the following description.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a rechargeable battery includes: an electrode assembly; a case for accommodating the electrode assembly; a hydrophilic layer on a first surface of the case; and a hydrophobic layer on a second surface of the case.

[0008] In one embodiment, an area of ​​the first surface of the shell may be within a first area range; and an area of ​​the second surface of the shell may be within a second area range.

[0009] In one embodiment, the area of ​​the first surface of the shell may be greater than the area of ​​the second surface of the shell.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first surface of the housing may include a side surface of the housing.

[0011] In one embodiment, the second surface of the housing may include an upper surface of the housing.

[0012] In an embodiment, the first surface of the housing may include at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the housing, the at least one surface not including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

[0013] In one embodiment, the second surface of the housing may include at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the housing, the at least one surface including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

[0014] In one embodiment, the first surface of the housing may be located within a first distance range from a nozzle spraying a fire extinguishing liquid; and the second surface of the housing may be located within a second distance range from the nozzle.

[0015] In one embodiment, the rechargeable battery may further include a venting portion on the second surface of the shell, the hydrophilic layer may be further located on the second surface of the shell, a first area of ​​the second surface of the shell where the hydrophilic layer is further located may be within a third distance range from the venting portion, and a second area of ​​the second surface of the shell where the hydrophobic layer is located may be within a fourth distance range from the venting portion.

[0016] In one embodiment, the angle between the water droplet and the surface of the hydrophilic layer may be 15 degrees or less; and the angle between the water droplet and the surface of the hydrophobic layer may be 100 degrees or more.

[0017] In one embodiment, the hydrophilic layer may include a hydrophilic film attached to the first surface of the shell or a hydrophilic coating applied to the first surface of the shell; and the hydrophobic layer may include a hydrophobic film attached to the second surface of the shell or a hydrophobic coating applied to the second surface of the shell.

[0018] In one embodiment, the hydrophobic film may include an insulating hydrophobic film; and the hydrophilic film may include an insulating hydrophilic film.

[0019] In one embodiment, the shell may include: a first long side wall portion; a second long side wall portion, opposite to and spaced apart from the first long side wall portion; a first short side wall portion; a second short side wall portion, opposite to and spaced apart from the first short side wall portion, the first short side wall portion and the second short side wall portion having an area smaller than that of the first long side wall portion and the second long side wall portion; an open first end portion; an open second end portion, opposite to the open first end portion; a first cover plate, covering the open first end portion; and a second cover plate, covering the open second end portion; and a hydrophilic film or a hydrophilic coating may be on the first short side wall portion, the second short side wall portion, the first long side wall portion and the second long side wall portion.

[0020] In one embodiment, a hydrophobic film may be on one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate, or a hydrophobic coating may be on one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate.

[0021] In one embodiment, the housing may include a cylindrical can and a cap assembly for sealing the cylindrical can; and a hydrophilic film may be on the cylindrical can, or a hydrophilic coating may be on the cylindrical can.

[0022] In one embodiment, a hydrophobic film may be on the top plate of the cover assembly, or a hydrophobic coating may be on the top plate.

[0023] In one embodiment, the shell may include a bag; a hydrophilic film may be on the outer lower surface of the bag or a hydrophilic coating may be on the outer lower surface of the bag; and a hydrophobic film may be on the outer upper surface of the bag or a hydrophobic coating may be on the outer upper surface of the bag.

[0024] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of forming a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer in a rechargeable battery includes: preparing a rechargeable battery; forming a hydrophilic layer on a first surface of the rechargeable battery; and forming a hydrophobic layer on a second surface of the rechargeable battery.

[0025] In one embodiment, the forming of the hydrophilic layer may include attaching a hydrophilic film to the first surface of the rechargeable battery, the angle between the water droplet and the surface of the hydrophilic film being 15 degrees or less; and the first surface may include at least one surface among the multiple surfaces of the rechargeable battery, the at least one surface not including at least one of the venting portion and the terminal.

[0026] In one embodiment, the forming of the hydrophobic layer may include attaching a hydrophobic film to the second surface of the rechargeable battery, the angle between the water droplets and the surface of the hydrophobic film being 100 degrees or greater; and the second surface may include at least one of the multiple surfaces of the rechargeable battery, the at least one surface including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

[0027] However, the aspects and features of the present disclosure are not limited to the above aspects and features, and the above and other aspects and features will be partially set forth in the detailed description with reference to the accompanying drawings, and in part may be obvious therefrom, or may be understood by practicing one or more of the presented embodiments of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] The above and other aspects and features of the present disclosure will be more clearly understood from the following detailed description of illustrative, non-limiting embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of an energy storage system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0030] Figure 2 A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0031] Figure 3 Examples along Figure 2 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II;

[0032] Figure 4 A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0033] Figure 5 Examples along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view taken along line II-II;

[0034] Figure 6 Illustrate various examples of water drop angles according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0035] Figure 7 Exemplifying that a fire extinguishing liquid is applied to a hydrophobic layer and a hydrophilic layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0036] Figure 8 illustrates the rise of a fire extinguishing liquid on a hydrophilic surface according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0037] Fig. 9 A perspective view illustrating a battery module according to some embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0038] Fig.10A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0039] Fig.11 Example Fig.10 A cross-sectional view of a rechargeable battery;

[0040] Fig.12 A partial perspective view illustrating a structure of a rechargeable battery according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure; and

[0041] Fig.13 A flow chart illustrating a method of forming a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer in a rechargeable battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Specific embodiments

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein the same reference numerals refer to the same elements throughout. However, the present disclosure may be implemented in various different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments illustrated herein. On the contrary, these embodiments are provided as examples so that the present disclosure will be detailed and complete, and will fully convey the aspects and features of the present disclosure to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is not necessary to describe processes, elements and techniques that are not necessary for those of ordinary skill in the art to fully understand the aspects and features of the present disclosure. Unless otherwise stated, in the entire drawings and written descriptions, the same reference numerals represent the same elements, and therefore, it is not necessary to repeat their redundant descriptions.

[0043] When a certain embodiment can be implemented differently, the specific process order may be different from the described order. For example, two processes described in succession may be performed simultaneously or substantially simultaneously, or may be performed in the order opposite to the described order.

[0044] In the accompanying drawings, for the sake of clarity, the relative size, thickness and ratio of elements, layers and regions can be enlarged and / or simplified. For ease of explanation, spatial relative terms such as "below", "below", "below", "above", "on" etc. can be used in this article to describe the relationship between an element or feature and another element or feature as illustrated in the figure. It will be understood that, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure, spatial relative terms are intended to cover the different orientations of the device in use or operation. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, the element described as "below" or "below" or "below" of other elements or features will then be oriented to "above" other elements or features. Therefore, the example terms "below" and "below" can cover both above and below orientations. The device can be oriented in other ways (for example, rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used in this article should be interpreted accordingly.

[0045] Any numerical range disclosed and / or recorded in this article is intended to include all sub-ranges of the same numerical precision contained in the recorded range. For example, the range of "1.0-10.0" is intended to include all sub-ranges between the recorded minimum value 1.0 and the recorded maximum value 10.0 (and including the recorded minimum value 1.0 and the recorded maximum value 10.0), that is, having a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as, for example, 2.4-7.6. Any maximum numerical limit recorded in this article is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit recorded in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein.

[0046] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc. as "the same" may mean that they are "substantially the same." Thus, the phrase "substantially the same" may include situations with deviations that are considered low in the art (e.g., 5% or less). Additionally, when a parameter is referred to as being uniform in a given area, this may mean that it is uniform in terms of average value.

[0047] It will be understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section. Therefore, without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure, the first element, component, region, layer or section described below may be referred to as a second element, component, region, layer or section.

[0048] It will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "on," "connected to," or "coupled to" another element or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or coupled to the other element or layer, or there can be one or more intervening elements or layers. Similarly, when a layer, region, or element is referred to as being "electrically connected to" another layer, region, or element, it can be directly electrically connected to the other layer, region, or element, and / or can be indirectly electrically connected and have one or more intervening layers, regions, or elements therebetween. Additionally, it will be understood that when an element or layer is referred to as being "between" two elements or layers, it can be the only element or layer between the two elements or layers, or there can also be one or more intervening elements or layers.

[0049] The terms used herein are for the purpose of describing a particular embodiment, and are not intended to limit the present disclosure. As used herein, the singular form "one" is intended to also include the plural form, unless the context clearly states otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "include", "comprise" and "have" when used in this specification clearly indicate that there are stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and / or parts, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and / or their groups. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. For example, the statement "A and / or B" means A, B or A and B. Statements such as "at least one of..." modify the entire element list when after the element list, without modifying the single element in the list. For example, the statement "at least one of a, b or c", "at least one of a, b and c" and "at least one of the group consisting of a, b and c" represent only a, only b, only c, a and b both, a and c both, b and c both, a, b and c all or their variations.

[0050] As used herein, the terms "substantially," "about," and similar terms are used as terms of approximation rather than terms of degree, and are intended to account for the inherent variation in measurements or calculations that one of ordinary skill in the art would recognize. Additionally, when describing embodiments of the present disclosure, the use of the term "may" refers to "one or more embodiments of the present disclosure." As used herein, the terms "use" and "using" may be considered synonymous with the terms "utilizing" and "utilizing," respectively. Moreover, the term "exemplary" is intended to refer to an example or illustration.

[0051] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as those commonly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present disclosure belongs. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and / or this specification, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined as such in this article.

[0052] The battery pack may include at least one battery module and a pack case having an accommodation space for accommodating the at least one battery module.

[0053] The battery module may include a plurality of battery cells and a module housing. The battery cells may be accommodated in the module housing in a stacked form. The battery cells may include a positive lead and a negative lead. Depending on the shape of the battery, a round battery cell, a square battery cell, or a pouch-type battery cell may be used.

[0054] In a battery pack, a cell stack in which cells are stacked on each other may form a module instead of a battery module. The cell stack may be accommodated in an accommodation space of a pack case, or may be accommodated in an accommodation space partitioned by a frame, a partition wall, or the like.

[0055] The battery cell generates a large amount of heat during charging / discharging. The generated heat accumulates in the battery cell and accelerates the degradation of the battery cell. Accordingly, the battery pack may further include a cooling member to prevent or substantially prevent the degradation of the battery cell. The cooling member may be provided in the lower part of the accommodation space where the battery cell is installed, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the cooling member may be provided in the upper part or the side surface according to the battery pack. The battery pack may further include a spray nozzle for spraying a fire extinguishing liquid in response to a fire or thermal runaway in the battery cell.

[0056] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view illustrating a portion of an energy storage system according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 , the energy storage system may include a tube (eg, at least one tube) 1100 , an upper cover 1200 , a lower cover 1300 , and a plurality of battery cells 1400 .

[0057] The battery cells 1400 may be charged and discharged, and heat may be generated during the charge / discharge. According to some embodiments, one or more hydrophilic layers may be formed on the first surface of the battery cells 1400, and one or more hydrophobic layers may be formed on the second surface of the battery cells 1400, so that the battery cells 1400 may be cooled in the event of thermal runaway in at least one of the battery cells 1400. Figures 2 to 12 Various examples of the hydrophilic layer and the hydrophobic layer respectively formed on the first surface and the second surface of the battery cell 1400 are described in more detail.

[0058] The lower cover 1300 may be connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) an upper portion of the battery cell 1400, and the upper cover 1200 may be connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) an upper portion of the lower cover 1300. A plurality of through holes 1210, 1310 through which the fire extinguishing liquid may flow may be formed in each of the upper cover 1200 and the lower cover 1300, respectively. The position of the through hole 1210 formed in the upper cover 1200 may correspond to the position of the through hole 1310 formed in the lower cover 1300 (e.g., may overlap with the position of the through hole 1310 formed in the lower cover 1300). However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the position of the through hole 1210 formed in the upper cover 1200 may be different from the position of the through hole 1310 formed in the lower cover 1300 (or may not overlap with the position of the through hole 1310 formed in the lower cover 1300).

[0059] One end of the tube 1100 may be connected to a tank for storing a fire extinguishing liquid. In addition, a plurality of nozzles may be formed at the lower portion of the tube 1100, and when a fire or thermal runaway occurs in the battery cell 1400, the fire extinguishing liquid may be sprayed through the nozzles. The fire extinguishing liquid may be a suitable substance in liquid form. The tube 1100 may be spaced apart from the upper cover 1300 by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance), or may be securely located on the upper surface of the upper cover 1300.

[0060] When the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed through the nozzle, the fire extinguishing liquid flows into the battery cell 1400 through the through holes 1210 and the through holes 1310 respectively formed in the upper cover 1200 and the lower cover 1300. In this case, the fire extinguishing liquid may be applied to the second surface of the battery cell 1400 through the hydrophilic layer formed on the first surface of the battery cell 1400. In addition, the fire extinguishing liquid may be applied to the first surface of the battery cell 1400 through the hydrophilic layer formed on the first surface of the battery cell 1400, and may flow downward at the same time.

[0061] The fire extinguishing liquid can spread to the ignited battery cell and the adjacent battery cells, thereby extinguishing the ignited battery cell and preventing or substantially preventing heat from being transferred to the surrounding battery cells. The fire extinguishing liquid can be repeatedly sprayed to contact the first surface and the second surface of the battery cell 1400, and then flow downward. For example, the sprayed fire extinguishing liquid flows downward from the hydrophilic layer while being applied to the first surface and the second surface of the battery cell 1400. In addition, the fire extinguishing liquid sprayed from the nozzle at different angles can be applied to the adjacent battery cells, so that all the ignited battery cells can be cooled, and the heat propagation to the adjacent battery cells can also be prevented or reduced.

[0062] Figure 2 A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery 100 a according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 3 Examples along Figure 2 For example, the rechargeable battery 100a may correspond to Figure 1 1400 battery cells.

[0063] refer to Figure 2 and Figure 3 , the rechargeable battery 100a according to the present embodiment may include an electrode assembly (e.g., at least one electrode assembly) 10, the electrode assembly 10 including a positive electrode plate 11, a negative electrode plate 12, and a separator 13 wound between the positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12, the separator 13 being an insulator. The rechargeable battery 100a may further include a case 20 accommodating the electrode assembly 10 and a cap assembly 30 connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) an opening of the case 20. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 10 may be built in the case 20.

[0064] The rechargeable battery 100a according to the present embodiment may be, for example, a lithium ion rechargeable battery having a square shape. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may be applied to various suitable types of batteries, such as a lithium polymer battery or a cylindrical battery.

[0065] The positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12 may each include a coated portion, which is an area where an active material is applied to a current collector formed of a thin metal foil, and the positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12 may include an uncoated area (e.g., a positive electrode uncoated area 11a and a negative electrode uncoated area 12a), which is an area where the active material is not applied.

[0066] The positive electrode plate 11, the negative electrode plate 12 and the separator 13 as an insulator therebetween are wound. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly 10 may have a structure in which a plurality of positive electrode plates and a plurality of negative electrode plates are alternately stacked with a separator therebetween.

[0067] The case 20 forms the appearance (eg, the entire appearance or the external appearance) of the rechargeable battery 100a and may include (eg, may be made of) a conductive metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel. In addition, the case 20 may provide a space for accommodating the electrode assembly 10.

[0068] The cap assembly 30 may include a cap plate 31 covering the opening of the case 20, and the case 20 and the cap plate 31 may contain a conductive material (e.g., may be made of a conductive material). The positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 electrically connected to the positive electrode plate 11 and the negative electrode plate 12, respectively, may protrude outward by passing through the cap plate 31.

[0069] Furthermore, outer peripheral surfaces of upper posts of the positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 protruding outward from the cap plate 31 may be threaded and the positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 may be fixed to the cap plate 31 with nuts.

[0070] However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 may be riveted in a riveted structure, or may be welded to the cap plate 31 .

[0071] In addition, the cap plate 31 may include a thin plate (e.g., may be composed of a thin plate), and may be connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the opening of the case 20. An electrolyte injection hole 32 may be formed in the cap plate 31, a sealing plug 33 may be installed in the electrolyte injection hole 32, and a vent portion 34 having a notch 34a may be installed in the cap plate 31.

[0072] The positive and negative electrode terminals 21 and 22 may be electrically connected to current collectors including first and second current collectors 40 and 50 (hereinafter referred to as positive and negative electrode current collectors) welded to the positive and negative electrode uncoated portions 11a and 12a, respectively.

[0073] For example, the positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 may be welded to the positive electrode collector 40 and the negative electrode collector 50, respectively. However, the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and the positive electrode terminal 21 may be integrally formed with the positive electrode collector 40, and the negative electrode terminal 22 may be integrally formed with the negative electrode collector 50.

[0074] In addition, an insulating member may be provided between the electrode assembly 10 and the cap plate 31. The insulating member may include first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70, and each of the first and second lower insulating members 60 and 70 may be provided between the electrode assembly 10 and the cap plate 31.

[0075] According to the present embodiment, one end of a separation member that may be installed to face one side surface of the electrode assembly 10 may be provided between the insulation member and the positive electrode terminal 21 or the negative electrode terminal 22 .

[0076] The separation member may include a first separation member 80 and a second separation member 90 .

[0077] Accordingly, one end of the separation member 80 that can be installed to face one side surface of the electrode assembly 10 can be provided between the first lower insulating member 60 and the positive electrode terminal 21, and one end of the separation member 90 that can be installed to face one side surface of the electrode assembly 10 can be provided between the second lower insulating member 70 and the negative electrode terminal 22.

[0078] The positive electrode terminal 21 and the negative electrode terminal 22 respectively welded to the positive electrode collector 40 and the negative electrode collector 50 can each be connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) one end of a corresponding one of the first separation member 80 and the second separation member 90 and one end of a corresponding one of the first lower insulating member 60 and the second lower insulating member 70.

[0079] According to the first embodiment, the hydrophilic layer 24 may be formed on the first surface of the housing 20, and the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed on the second surface of the housing 20. For example, the first surface of the housing 20 may include a side surface of the housing 20, and the second surface of the housing 20 may include an upper surface of the housing 20.

[0080] According to some embodiments, the hydrophilic layer 24 may be formed on at least one of the multiple surfaces of the housing 20, on which the degassing portion 34 is not formed or on which at least one of the negative electrode terminal 21 and the positive electrode terminal 22 is not formed. In addition, the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed on at least one of the multiple surfaces of the housing 20, on which the degassing portion 34 is formed or on which at least one of the negative electrode terminal 21 and the positive electrode terminal 22 is formed.

[0081] According to some embodiments, the area of ​​the first surface of the housing 20 formed with the hydrophilic layer 24 may be included in a first area range (e.g., a first predetermined area range). In addition, the area of ​​the second surface of the housing 20 formed with the hydrophobic layer 26 may be included in a second area range (e.g., a second predetermined area range). For example, the area of ​​the first surface of the housing 20 may be greater than the area of ​​the second surface of the housing 20.

[0082] According to some embodiments, the hydrophilic layer 24 and the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed on the housing 20 based on the distance from the nozzle formed in the tube 1100. For example, the first surface of the housing 20 formed with the hydrophilic layer 24 may be located within a first distance range from the nozzle spraying the fire extinguishing liquid. In addition, the second surface of the housing 20 formed with the hydrophobic layer 26 may be located within a second distance range from the nozzle. For example, the second distance range may include a distance shorter than the distance in the first distance range.

[0083] According to some embodiments, the hydrophilic layer 24 may be formed by attaching a hydrophilic film or by applying a hydrophilic coating to the first surface of the housing 20. In addition, the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed by attaching a hydrophobic film or by applying a hydrophobic coating to the second surface of the housing 20. For example, the hydrophobic film may be an insulating hydrophobic film, and the hydrophilic film may be an insulating hydrophilic film.

[0084] According to the present embodiment, when the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed onto the hydrophilic layer 24 formed on the first surface of the housing 20, the fire extinguishing liquid can flow downward while being applied to the first surface, and accordingly, the heat generated in the rechargeable battery 100a can be cooled. In addition, when the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed onto the hydrophobic layer 26 formed on the second surface of the housing 20, water droplets can be formed on the second surface at an angle (e.g., a predetermined angle), and the flow of the fire extinguishing liquid can be suppressed, and therefore, the fire extinguishing liquid can be prevented or substantially prevented from flowing into the rechargeable battery 100a.

[0085] In some embodiments, based on the position of the vent portion 34 , the hydrophobic layer and the hydrophilic layer may be formed on the second surface in a more complex manner.

[0086] Figure 4A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery 100 b according to a second embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 Examples along Figure 4 For example, the rechargeable battery 100b may correspond to Figure 1 1400 battery cells.

[0087] refer to Figure 4 , the hydrophilic layer 28a may be formed on the first surface of the rechargeable battery 100b. In addition, the hydrophilic layer 28b and the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed on the second surface (eg, the upper surface) of the rechargeable battery 100b in a complex manner. Figure 4 and Figure 5 As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the hydrophilic layer 28 b and the hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed in a complex manner on the second surface of the housing 20 where the exhaust portion 34 is formed.

[0088] The hydrophilic layer 28b may be formed at a first region of the second surface (e.g., in or on the first region), where the distance from the exhaust portion 34 is included in the third distance range. The hydrophobic layer 26 may be formed at a second region of the second surface (e.g., in or on the second region), where the distance from the exhaust portion 34 is included in the fourth distance range. In other words, the first region including the second surface of the housing 20 where the hydrophilic layer 28b is formed may be located within the third distance range from the exhaust portion 34, and the second region including the second surface of the housing 20 where the hydrophobic layer 26 is formed may be located within the fourth distance range from the exhaust portion 34. The fourth distance range may include a distance shorter than the distance in the third distance range.

[0089] According to the present embodiment, in a state where the vent portion 34 is cut off and the interior of the rechargeable battery 100b is open, the hydrophobic layer 26 formed in the second region closer to the vent portion 34 can reduce the amount of fire extinguishing liquid flowing into the rechargeable battery 100b. In addition, the hydrophilic layer 28b formed in the first region farther from the vent portion 34 can cause the fire extinguishing liquid to flow downward, and the temperature of other surfaces can be lowered by the flowing fire extinguishing liquid.

[0090] The hydrophilic layer 28b can be formed on the second surface at a position relatively far from the exhaust portion 34, and the hydrophobic layer 26 can be formed on the second surface at a position relatively close to the exhaust portion 34, and accordingly, even in a state where the exhaust portion 34 is cut off due to overheating, the amount of fire extinguishing liquid flowing into the battery cell can be reduced.

[0091] In some embodiments, the housing 20 may include a first long side wall portion and a second long side wall portion that are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other (e.g., separated). The housing 20 may further include a first short side wall portion and a second short side wall portion that are opposite to each other and spaced apart from each other (e.g., separated). The area of ​​the first short side wall portion and the second short side wall portion may be smaller than the area of ​​the first long side wall portion and the second long side wall portion. The housing 20 may further include an open first end portion, an open second end portion opposite to the first end portion, a first cover plate covering the first end portion, and a second cover plate covering the second end portion. For example, a hydrophilic film may be attached to or a hydrophilic coating may be applied to the first short side wall portion, the second short side wall portion, the first long side wall portion, and the second long side wall portion, and therefore, a hydrophilic layer may be formed at the first short side wall portion, the second short side wall portion, the first long side wall portion, and the second long side wall portion (e.g., in the first short side wall portion, the second short side wall portion, the first long side wall portion, and the second long side wall portion or on the first short side wall portion, the second short side wall portion, the first long side wall portion, and the second long side wall portion). In addition, a hydrophobic film may be attached to the first cover plate or the second cover plate, or a hydrophobic coating may be applied to the first cover plate or the second cover plate to form a hydrophobic layer on the first cover plate or the second cover plate.

[0092] Figure 6 Various examples of water drop angles according to some embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated. Figure 6 , the angle of the water drop can be calculated based on the horizontal line of the surface. Figure 6 Water droplets formed on the surface and having angles of 95 degrees, 15 degrees, and 0 degrees are exemplified.

[0093] As the angle increases, relatively larger water droplets can be formed on the surface. The angle of the water droplets on the hydrophobic layer can be greater than the angle of the water droplets on the hydrophilic layer. According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the angle between the water droplets associated with the hydrophilic layer and the second surface can be 15 degrees or less. In other words, the angle of the water droplets formed on the hydrophilic layer can be 15 degrees or less. In addition, the angle between the water droplets associated with the hydrophobic layer and the second surface can be greater than or equal to 100 degrees. In other words, the angle of the water droplets formed on the hydrophobic layer can be 100 degrees or more.

[0094] Accordingly, on the hydrophilic layer, the fire extinguishing liquid can be evenly or substantially evenly applied to the surface of the battery cell, and a larger amount of the fire extinguishing liquid can be applied for a longer time. In this way, the cooling efficiency can be increased (e.g., can be greatly increased). In some embodiments, the fire extinguishing liquid may not accumulate on the hydrophobic layer.

[0095] Figure 7 The fire extinguishing liquid is applied to the hydrophobic layer and the hydrophilic layer according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 7The first example 710 illustrated in FIG. 7 may be associated with a hydrophobic layer. Figure 7 The second example 720 and the third example 730 illustrated in the figure may be associated with a hydrophilic layer. Figure 7 The exemplary fire extinguishing liquid is located below the surface. For example, the fire extinguishing liquid 712 sprayed on the surface and flowing downward from the surface can be located in the lower area of ​​the surface.

[0096] refer to Figure 7 In the first example 710, in the state where the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed, a plurality of water droplets having an angle of 100 degrees or more may be formed on the surface 714 formed with the hydrophobic layer. In other words, the fire extinguishing liquid may be applied to the surface 714 in the form of water droplets having an angle of 100 degrees or more. In addition, some of the fire extinguishing liquid 712 that is not applied to the surface 714 may be located in the lower area.

[0097] refer to Figure 7 In the second example 720, in the state of spraying the fire extinguishing liquid, a plurality of water droplets having an angle of 15 degrees or less can be formed on the surface 724 formed with the hydrophilic layer. In addition, the fire extinguishing liquid 726 applied to the surface 724 formed with the hydrophilic layer spreads to the uncoated area, so that Figure 7 In the third example 730 of FIG. 7 , the entire surface 724 of the hydrophilic layer can be coated with the fire extinguishing liquid. In other words, even in a state where the fire extinguishing liquid 726 is sprayed only on some areas of the hydrophilic layer, due to the surface tension of the hydrophilic layer, the fire extinguishing liquid can diffuse to other areas that are not coated with the hydrophilic layer, so that the fire extinguishing liquid 726 can be applied to the entire or substantially the entire area of ​​the hydrophilic layer.

[0098] Accordingly, even in a state where the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed only on a portion of the first surface of the housing on which the hydrophilic layer is formed, the fire extinguishing liquid can be diffused to the entire or substantially the entire area of ​​the first surface of the housing, thereby making it possible to quickly cool the heat of the rechargeable battery. Therefore, the case where the hydrophilic layer is formed can have better cooling performance using the fire extinguishing liquid than the case where the hydrophobic layer is formed.

[0099] Figure 8 Illustrate the rise of fire extinguishing liquid on a hydrophilic surface according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 8 , even in a state where the fire extinguishing liquid is sprayed on or located in a lower area of ​​the first surface of the housing on which the hydrophilic layer is formed, the fire extinguishing liquid can be diffused over the entire or substantially the entire area of ​​the first surface.

[0100] exist Figure 8In the embodiment, the first area 810 may be an area where the fire extinguishing liquid is applied, and the second area 820 may be an area where the fire extinguishing liquid of the first area 810 is diffused and applied. On the hydrophilic layer, the fire extinguishing liquid rises from the first area 810 and diffuses to other areas due to surface tension. Over time, due to surface tension, the third area 830 where the fire extinguishing liquid is not applied (e.g., not sprayed) may also be coated with the fire extinguishing liquid.

[0101] Fig. 9 A perspective view illustrating a battery module 900 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0102] refer to Fig. 9 According to the present embodiment, the battery module 900 may include terminal portions 911, 912, a plurality of battery cells 910 arranged in one direction, a connection tab 920 connecting the battery cell 910a to an adjacent battery cell 910b, and a protection circuit module (e.g., protection circuit) 930 having one end connected to the connection tab 920. The protection circuit module 930 may include (e.g., may be) a battery management system (BMS). In some embodiments, the connection tab 920 may include a main body portion contacting the terminal portions 911, 912 between the adjacent battery cells 910a, 910b and an extension portion extending from the main body portion and connected to the protection circuit module 930. The connection tab 920 may include (e.g., may be) a bus bar.

[0103] The battery cell 910 may include a battery case, an electrode assembly housed in the battery case (e.g., built into the battery case), and an electrolyte. The electrode assembly and the electrolyte may electrochemically react to generate energy. One side of the battery cell 910 may include terminal portions 911, 912 electrically connected to a connecting tab 920, and an exhaust port 913, which is a channel for discharging gases that may be generated inside the battery cell 910. The terminal portions 911, 912 of the battery cell 910 may be a positive terminal portion 911 and a negative terminal portion 912, respectively, having different polarities from each other. The terminal portions 911, 912 of adjacent battery cells 910 may be electrically connected in series or in parallel via a connecting tab 920. However, the present disclosure is not limited to the connection structure described above, and various suitable connection structures may be adopted as needed or desired. In addition, the number and arrangement of the battery cells are not limited to Fig. 9 The numbers and arrangements are illustrated in the drawings and may be variously modified as needed or desired.

[0104] Fig. 9 The battery cell 910 illustrated in FIG. 1 may correspond to the battery cell 910 illustrated in FIG. Figures 2 to 5For example, a hydrophilic layer may be formed on a first surface of the battery case, and a hydrophobic layer may be formed on a second surface of the battery case.

[0105] The battery cells 910 may be arranged in a direction so that the wider surfaces of the battery cells 910 face each other, and the arranged battery cells 910 may be fixed by the housings 961, 962, 963, and 964. The housings 961, 962, 963, and 964 may include a pair of end plates 961 and 962 facing the wider surfaces of the battery cells 910, a side plate 963 connecting the pair of end plates 961, 962 to each other, and a bottom plate 964. The side plate 963 may support the side surface of the battery cell 910, and the bottom plate 964 may support the bottom surface of the battery cell 910. In addition, a pair of end plates 961, 962, the side plate 963, and the bottom plate 964 may be connected to each other by suitable members (such as bolts 965). According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a hydrophilic layer may be formed on the inner surfaces of the housings 961, 962, 963, and 964. For example, a hydrophilic film may be attached to the inner surfaces of the outer shells 961, 962, 963, and 964, or a hydrophilic coating may be applied to the inner surfaces of the outer shells 961, 962, 963, and 964. Even if overheating occurs in the battery module 900, the heat can be prevented or substantially prevented from being transferred to the outside of the battery module 900 by the hydrophilic layer formed on the inner surfaces of the outer shells 961, 962, 963, and 964.

[0106] The protection circuit module 930 may include electronic components and a protection circuit, and may be electrically connected to the connection tab 920. The protection circuit module 930 may include a first protection circuit module (e.g., a first protection circuit) 930a and a second protection circuit module (e.g., a second protection circuit) 930b extending from different positions from each other in the direction in which the battery cells 910 are arranged. In this case, the first protection circuit module 930a and the second protection circuit module 930b may be spaced apart (e.g., separated) from each other by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance), and may be parallel or substantially parallel to each other to be electrically connected to adjacent connection tabs 920, respectively. For example, the first protection circuit module 930a may be formed to extend on one side of the upper surface of the battery cell 910 in the direction in which the battery cell 910 is arranged, and the second protection circuit module 930b may be formed to extend on the other side of the upper surface of the battery cell 910 in the direction in which the battery cell 910 is arranged. The second protection circuit module 930b can be spaced apart (e.g., separated) from the first protection circuit module 930a by a suitable distance (e.g., a predetermined distance), and the exhaust port 913 is located therebetween, and can be arranged parallel to or substantially parallel to the first protection circuit module 930a. As such, the two protection circuit modules 930a and 930b are arranged side by side with each other and spaced apart (e.g., separated) from each other in the direction in which the battery cells are arranged. Accordingly, the area of ​​the printed circuit board (PCB) constituting the protection circuit modules 930a and 930b can be reduced. By providing two separate protection circuit modules, unnecessary PCB area is reduced. In addition, the first protection circuit module 930a can be connected to the second protection circuit module 930b by a conductive connecting member 950. For example, one side of the connecting member 950 can be connected to the first protection circuit module 930a, and the other side of the connecting member 950 can be connected to the second protection circuit module 930b, so that the first protection circuit module 930a and the second protection circuit module 930b can be electrically connected to each other.

[0107] The joining may be performed by any of a variety of suitable joining methods, such as soldering, resistance welding, laser welding, and / or projection welding.

[0108] In some embodiments, the connection member 950 may include (e.g., may be) for example, a wire. In addition, the connection member 950 may be formed of an elastic or flexible material. The normality of the voltage, temperature, and current of the battery cell 910 may be checked and managed by the connection member 950. In other words, information about the voltage, current, and temperature received by the first protection circuit module 930a from the connection tab 920 adjacent to the first protection circuit module 930a and information about the voltage, current, and temperature received by the second protection circuit module 930b from the connection tab 920 adjacent to the second protection circuit module 930b may be integrated and managed by the protection circuit module 930.

[0109] Furthermore, during expansion of the battery cell 910 , the connection member 950 may absorb impact due to elasticity or flexibility of the connection member 950 , and thus the first and second protection circuit modules 930 a and 930 b may be prevented or substantially prevented from being damaged.

[0110] However, the shape and structure of the connecting member 950 are not limited to the above reference Fig. 9 Describe the shape and structure.

[0111] By providing two separate protection circuit modules including the first protection circuit module 930a and the second protection circuit module 930b, the area of ​​the PCB constituting the protection circuit module can be reduced, and space can be provided inside the battery module. Accordingly, not only can the fastening operation of connecting the protection circuit modules to each other be performed more easily, but also the repair of abnormal battery modules can be performed more easily, thereby improving work efficiency.

[0112] Fig.10 A perspective view illustrating a rechargeable battery 200 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.11 Example Fig.10 2 is a cross-sectional view of a rechargeable battery 200.

[0113] like Fig.10 and Fig.11 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , a cylindrical lithium ion rechargeable battery 200 according to a third embodiment of the present disclosure may include a cylindrical can 110, an electrode assembly 120, and a cap assembly 140. The cylindrical lithium ion rechargeable battery 200 may further include a center pin 130 as needed or desired. The cap assembly 140 is configured to seal the cylindrical can 110. In addition, in the rechargeable battery 200 according to some embodiments of the present disclosure, the cap assembly 140 may also perform a current interruption operation, and accordingly, the cap assembly 140 may sometimes be referred to as a current interruption device.

[0114] The cylindrical can 110 may include a circular or substantially circular bottom portion 111 and a cylindrical sidewall 112 extending a certain length from the outer circumference of the bottom portion 111 toward the upper portion. During the manufacturing process of the rechargeable battery 200, the upper portion of the cylindrical can 110 is open. Accordingly, during the assembly process of the rechargeable battery 200, the electrode assembly 120 and the center pin 130 may be inserted into the cylindrical can 110 together with the electrolyte. The cylindrical can 110 may include, for example, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, aluminum alloy, or its equivalent (e.g., may be made of steel, stainless steel, aluminum, aluminum alloy, or its equivalent), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0115] In addition, the cylindrical can 110 may include a curling portion 113 recessed inwardly at a lower portion around the cap assembly 140 to prevent or substantially prevent the cap assembly 140 from being released to the outside, and a crimping portion 114 bent inwardly on an upper portion of the cylindrical can 110 .

[0116] The electrode assembly 120 may be accommodated inside the cylindrical can 110. The electrode assembly 120 may include a negative electrode plate 121 having a negative electrode current collector plate coated with a negative electrode active material (e.g., graphite, carbon, etc.), a positive electrode current collector plate 122 having a positive electrode active material (e.g., transition metal oxide (LiCoO 2 、LiNiO 2 、LiMn 2 O 4 The present invention also provides a positive electrode plate 122 of a positive electrode current collector of a negative electrode plate 121 and a separator 123 located between the negative electrode plate 121 and the positive electrode plate 122 to prevent or substantially prevent a short circuit and allow only lithium ions to move. In addition, the negative electrode plate 121, the positive electrode plate 122, and the separator 123 may each have a cylindrical or substantially cylindrical shape to be wound. For example, the negative electrode current collector may be formed of copper (Cu) foil, the positive electrode current collector may be formed of aluminum (Al) foil, and the separator may be formed of polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0117] In addition, the negative electrode tab 124 protruding downward and extending a certain length may be welded to the negative electrode plate 121, and the positive electrode tab 125 protruding upward and extending a certain length may be welded to the positive electrode plate 122, but the reverse is also possible. In addition, for example, the negative electrode tab 124 may be formed of copper (Cu) or nickel (Ni), and the positive electrode tab 125 may be formed of aluminum (Al), but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0118] The negative electrode tab 124 of the electrode assembly 120 may be welded to the bottom portion 111 of the cylindrical can 110. Therefore, the cylindrical can 110 may be used as a negative electrode. On the other hand, the positive electrode tab 125 may be welded to the bottom portion 111 of the cylindrical can 110, and in this case, the cylindrical can 110 may be used as a positive electrode.

[0119] A first insulating plate 126 may be provided between the electrode assembly 120 and the bottom portion 111, the first insulating plate 126 being connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the cylindrical can 110 and having a first hole 126a in the center and a second hole 126b on the outside. The first insulating plate 126 is used to prevent or substantially prevent the electrode assembly 120 from electrically contacting the bottom portion 111 of the cylindrical can 110. In more detail, the first insulating plate 126 is used to prevent or substantially prevent the positive electrode plate 122 of the electrode assembly 120 from electrically contacting the bottom portion 111. In the event that a large amount of gas is generated due to an abnormality of the rechargeable battery, the first hole 126a is used to allow the gas to quickly move upward through the center pin 130, and the second hole 126b is used to allow the negative electrode tab 124 to pass through to be welded to the bottom portion 111.

[0120] A second insulating plate 127 may be provided between the electrode assembly 120 and the cap assembly 140, the second insulating plate 127 being connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the cylindrical can 110 and having a first hole 127a in the center and a plurality of second holes 127b on the outside. The second insulating plate 127 is used to prevent or substantially prevent the electrode assembly 120 from electrically contacting the cap assembly 140. In more detail, the second insulating plate 127 is used to prevent or substantially prevent the negative electrode plate 121 of the electrode assembly 120 from electrically contacting the cap assembly 140. In the case where a large amount of gas is generated due to an abnormality of the rechargeable battery, the first hole 127a is used to allow the gas to quickly move to the center pin 130, and the second hole 127b is used to allow the positive electrode tab 125 to pass through to be welded to the cap assembly 140. In addition, the other second holes 127b are used to allow the electrolyte to quickly flow into the electrode assembly 120 during the electrolyte injection process.

[0121] The diameters of the first holes 126a, 127a of the first insulating plate 126 and the second insulating plate 127 are formed to be smaller than the diameter of the center pin 130, and accordingly, the center pin 130 can be prevented or substantially prevented from electrically contacting the bottom portion 111 of the cylindrical can 110 or the cover assembly 140 due to external impact.

[0122] The center pin 130 has a shape of a hollow circular tube and may be connected to (e.g., coupled to or attached to) the approximate center of the electrode assembly 120. The center pin 130 may be formed of, for example, steel, stainless steel, aluminum, aluminum alloy, or polybutylene terephthalate, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto. The center pin 130 is used to suppress deformation of the electrode assembly 120 during charging and discharging of the battery and to serve as a passage for moving gas generated inside the rechargeable battery. In some cases, the center pin 130 may be omitted as needed or desired.

[0123] The cap assembly 140 may include a top plate 141 , a middle plate 142 , an insulating plate 143 , and a bottom plate 144 .

[0124] The middle plate 142 is located below the top plate 141 and may have a flat or substantially flat shape.

[0125] When viewed from the bottom, the insulating plate 143 may be formed in a circular ring shape having a certain width. In addition, the insulating plate 143 is used to insulate the middle plate 142 from the bottom plate 144. For example, the insulating plate 143 may be sandwiched between the middle plate 142 and the bottom plate 144 and ultrasonically welded, but the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0126] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a hydrophilic layer 152 may be formed on a first surface of a housing of the rechargeable battery 200, and a hydrophobic layer 154 may be formed on a second surface of the housing. For example, a hydrophilic film may be attached to the cylindrical can 110 or a hydrophilic coating may be applied to the cylindrical can 110 to form a hydrophilic layer 152 on the first surface of the housing. In addition, a hydrophobic film may be attached to the top plate 141 included in the cap assembly 140, or a hydrophobic coating may be applied to the top plate 141 to form a hydrophobic layer 154 on the second surface of the housing. According to some embodiments, the hydrophobic layer 154 may be formed in a partial area of ​​the top plate 141.

[0127] Fig.12 A partial perspective view illustrating the structure of a rechargeable battery according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig.12 As illustrated in FIG. 1 , a rechargeable battery 300 according to a fourth embodiment of the present disclosure may include an electrode assembly 310 , a pouch 330 for accommodating the electrode assembly 310 , and an electrode lead 350 .

[0128] The electrode assembly 310 may include a negative electrode plate 312 as a first electrode plate, a positive electrode plate 314 as a second electrode plate, and a separator 316 provided therebetween. The negative electrode plate 312 may include a negative electrode tab 312a electrically connected to the uncoated portion of the negative electrode, and the positive electrode plate 314 may include a positive electrode tab 314a electrically connected to the uncoated portion of the positive electrode. The negative electrode tab 312a and the positive electrode tab 314a may be welded to the negative electrode lead 352 and the positive electrode lead 354 of the external terminal, respectively, to be electrically connected to the outside. Tab films 356 may be attached to the negative electrode lead 352 and the positive electrode lead 354, respectively, to insulate the negative electrode lead 352 and the positive electrode lead 354 from the bag 330.

[0129] In a state where the electrode assembly 310 is accommodated in the bag 330, the bag 330 is sealed by the sealing portion 332 at the edges that contact each other. For example, the sealing is performed in a state where the terminal film 356 is arranged between the sealing portions 332. Fig.12, a form in which the tab film 356 is attached to the negative electrode lead 352 and the positive electrode lead 354, respectively, is defined as a "separate tab film" (eg, the sealing structure is defined as a separate sealing structure).

[0130] The sealing portion 332 of the bag 330 may be formed of a hot melt material and may have a structure in which the hot melt layers are sealed by bonding them to each other. Hot melt materials generally have weak bonding strength to metals, and accordingly, the tab film 356 in a thin film shape is attached to the tab and fused to the bag 330. However, a separate sealing structure may have poor workability and low productivity because the tab film 356 is attached and welded to each tab and is thermally fused to the bag 330 again.

[0131] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a hydrophilic layer 362 may be formed on a first surface of the housing of the rechargeable battery 300, and a hydrophobic layer 364 may be formed on a second surface of the housing. For example, a hydrophilic film may be attached to the outer lower surface of the bag 330, or a hydrophilic coating may be applied to the outer lower surface of the bag 330 to form a hydrophilic layer 362 on the first surface of the housing of the rechargeable battery 300. In addition, a hydrophobic film may be attached to the outer upper surface of the bag 330, or a hydrophobic coating may be applied to the outer upper surface of the bag 330 to form a hydrophobic layer 364 on the second surface of the housing.

[0132] Fig.13 Flowchart illustrating a method 1300 of forming a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer in a rechargeable battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure. The method 1300 of forming a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer may begin, and a rechargeable battery may be prepared (S1310). The rechargeable battery may include one or more rechargeable batteries of various suitable shapes, such as a prismatic shape, a cylindrical shape, and / or a pouch shape.

[0133] A hydrophilic layer may be formed on the first surface of the rechargeable battery (S1320). According to some embodiments, a hydrophilic film having an angle of 15 degrees or less between a water droplet and the surface may be attached to the first surface of the rechargeable battery. The first surface may include at least one surface of a plurality of surfaces of the rechargeable battery on which at least one of the venting portion and the terminal is not formed.

[0134] Thereafter, a hydrophobic layer may be formed on the second surface of the rechargeable battery (S1330), and method 1300 may end. According to some embodiments, a hydrophobic film having an angle of 100 degrees or more between a water droplet and the surface may be attached to the second surface of the rechargeable battery. The second surface may include at least one surface of a plurality of surfaces of the rechargeable battery, on which at least one of the venting portion and the terminal is formed.

[0135] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the temperature of an overheated rechargeable battery can be quickly reduced by a hydrophobic layer and / or a hydrophilic layer formed on the surface of the rechargeable battery, thereby preventing or substantially preventing a fire from spreading to adjacent rechargeable batteries / devices.

[0136] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, the fire extinguishing liquid may not immediately flow downward on a specific surface of a rechargeable battery on which a hydrophobic layer is formed, and may maintain or substantially maintain a coated state in the form of water droplets, thereby preventing or substantially preventing the fire extinguishing liquid from flowing into a battery cell of the rechargeable battery. Accordingly, a short circuit in a circuit or the like caused by the fire extinguishing liquid may be prevented or substantially prevented.

[0137] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a rechargeable battery in which thermal runaway occurs may be quickly cooled by a hydrophilic layer formed on a surface of the rechargeable battery, and a fire extinguishing liquid may be quickly discharged.

[0138] The foregoing is an explanation of some embodiments of the present disclosure and should not be construed as limiting thereof. Although some embodiments have been described, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that various modifications may be made in the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It will be understood that the description of the features or aspects in each embodiment should generally be considered to be applicable to other similar features or aspects in other embodiments, unless otherwise described. Therefore, as will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art, the features, characteristics and / or elements described in conjunction with a particular embodiment may be used alone or in combination with the features, characteristics and / or elements described in conjunction with other embodiments, unless otherwise specifically described. Therefore, it should be understood that the foregoing is an explanation of various example embodiments and should not be construed as being limited to the specific embodiments disclosed herein, and that various modifications to the disclosed embodiments and other example embodiments are intended to be included in the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as defined in the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A rechargeable battery comprising: Electrode assembly; A housing for accommodating the electrode assembly; A hydrophilic layer, on the first surface of the shell; as well as A hydrophobic layer is on the second surface of the shell.

2. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: An area of ​​the first surface of the housing is within a first area range; and An area of ​​the second surface of the housing is within a second area range. 3 . The rechargeable battery of claim 2 , wherein the area of ​​the first surface of the case is greater than the area of ​​the second surface of the case. 4 . The rechargeable battery of claim 1 , wherein the first surface of the case includes a side surface of the case. 5 . The rechargeable battery of claim 1 , wherein the second surface of the case comprises an upper surface of the case. 6 . The rechargeable battery of claim 1 , wherein the first surface of the case includes at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the case, the at least one surface excluding at least one of a vent portion and a terminal. 7 . The rechargeable battery of claim 1 , wherein the second surface of the case includes at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the case, the at least one surface including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

8. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The first surface of the housing is located within a first distance range from a nozzle that sprays a fire extinguishing liquid; and The second surface of the housing is located within a second distance range from the nozzle.

9. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, further comprising a vent portion on the second surface of the housing, wherein the hydrophilic layer is further located on the second surface of the shell, wherein the first region where the hydrophilic layer in the second surface of the housing is further located is within a third distance range from the exhaust portion, and The second region where the hydrophobic layer in the second surface of the housing is located is within a fourth distance range from the exhaust portion.

10. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The angle between the water droplet and the surface of the hydrophilic layer is 15 degrees or less; and The angle between the water droplet and the surface of the hydrophobic layer is 100 degrees or more.

11. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The hydrophilic layer includes a hydrophilic film attached to the first surface of the housing or a hydrophilic coating applied to the first surface of the housing; and The hydrophobic layer includes a hydrophobic film attached to the second surface of the housing or a hydrophobic coating applied to the second surface of the housing.

12. The rechargeable battery according to claim 11, wherein: The hydrophobic film comprises an insulating hydrophobic film; and The hydrophilic film includes an insulating hydrophilic film.

13. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The housing comprises: a first long side wall portion; a second long side wall portion, opposite to the first long side wall portion and spaced apart from the first long side wall portion; a first short side wall portion; a second short side wall portion, opposite to the first short side wall portion and spaced apart from the first short side wall portion, the first short side wall portion and the second short side wall portion having an area smaller than that of the first long side wall portion and the second long side wall portion; an open first end portion; an open second end portion, opposite to the open first end portion; a first cover plate covering the open first end portion; and a second cover plate covering the open second end portion; and A hydrophilic film or a hydrophilic coating is on the first short sidewall portion, the second short sidewall portion, the first long sidewall portion, and the second long sidewall portion. 14 . The rechargeable battery of claim 13 , wherein a hydrophobic film is on one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate, or a hydrophobic coating is on one of the first cover plate and the second cover plate.

15. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The housing includes a cylindrical can and a cap assembly for sealing the cylindrical can; and A hydrophilic film is on the cylindrical can or a hydrophilic coating is on the cylindrical can. 16 . The rechargeable battery of claim 15 , wherein a hydrophobic film is on the top plate of the cap assembly, or a hydrophobic paint is on the top plate.

17. The rechargeable battery according to claim 1, wherein: The housing includes a bag; A hydrophilic film is on the outer lower surface of the bag or a hydrophilic coating is on the outer lower surface of the bag; and A hydrophobic film is on the outer upper surface of the bag or a hydrophobic coating is on the outer upper surface of the bag.

18. A method for forming a hydrophilic layer and a hydrophobic layer in a rechargeable battery, the method comprising: preparing a rechargeable battery; forming a hydrophilic layer on a first surface of the rechargeable battery; as well as A hydrophobic layer is formed on the second surface of the rechargeable battery.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein: The forming of the hydrophilic layer includes attaching a hydrophilic film to the first surface of the rechargeable battery, an angle between a water droplet and a surface of the hydrophilic film being 15 degrees or less; and The first surface includes at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the rechargeable battery, the at least one surface not including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

20. The method of claim 18, wherein: the forming of the hydrophobic layer includes attaching a hydrophobic film to the second surface of the rechargeable battery, an angle between a water droplet and a surface of the hydrophobic film being 100 degrees or more; and The second surface includes at least one surface among a plurality of surfaces of the rechargeable battery, the at least one surface including at least one of a vent portion and a terminal.

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