Non-aqueous electrochemical cell comprising sealing member

Abstract

A non-aqueous electrochemical cell is provided. The battery includes a housing including an internal space extending to an open end, and a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte disposed within the internal space of the housing. A sealing member is disposed adjacent the open end of the housing, where the sealing member includes a polymer composition that includes a polyarylene sulfide and a bifunctional polymer that includes an epoxy functional group and a (meth) acrylate functional group. The epoxy content of the polymer composition is from about 0.3 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the polyarylene sulfide in the polymer composition.

Description

[0001] Related applications

[0002] This application is based upon and claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Serial No. 63 / 484,216, filed on February 10, 2023, which is incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] Electric vehicles, such as battery electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, mild hybrid electric vehicles, or full hybrid electric vehicles, typically have an electric powertrain that includes a non-aqueous electrochemical cell (e.g., lithium-ion battery) stack, each of which includes an anode, a cathode, a separator, and an electrolyte sealed within a housing structure. Due to the high reactivity of the cathode and electrolyte materials, batteries typically include glass seals to seal metal components that must be electrically insulated and to seal small orifices in the housing. Due to the high cost of glass seals, attempts have also been made to use thermoplastic polymer sealing systems. For example, a thermoplastic gasket can be compressed around the inside top edge of the housing (e.g., a steel can) and the periphery of the lid to close the open top of the can, thereby forming a seal to keep the electrolyte within the battery housing and prevent water from entering. Thermoplastic lids can also be used to seal orifices in the battery housing. Despite having some benefits, the polymer materials used for such sealing systems typically exhibit poor adhesion to the battery housing and / or other metal components, which adversely affects performance, particularly at high temperatures. Therefore, there is currently a need for improved sealing systems for non-aqueous electrochemical cells. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a non-aqueous electrochemical cell is disclosed, comprising a housing having an interior space extending to an open end, and a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte disposed within the interior space of the housing. A sealing member is disposed adjacent to the open end of the housing. The sealing member comprises a polymer composition comprising polyarylene sulfide and a bifunctional polymer, the bifunctional polymer comprising an epoxy functional group and a (meth)acrylate functional group. The epoxy content of the polymer composition is from about 0.3 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of polyarylene sulfide in the polymer composition.

[0005] Other features and aspects of the present invention are described in more detail below. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] A full and enabling disclosure of the invention, including the best mode known to those skilled in the art, is more particularly set forth in the remainder of the specification, including with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 One embodiment of the non-aqueous electrochemical cell of the present invention is shown;

[0008] Figure 2 Another embodiment of the non-aqueous electrochemical cell of the present invention is shown; and

[0009] Figure 3 An electric vehicle is shown, components of which may incorporate the composite structure of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0010] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the discussion herein is merely a description of exemplary embodiments and is not intended to limit the broader aspects of the invention.

[0011] In general, the present invention relates to a non-aqueous electrochemical cell (e.g., a lithium ion battery) comprising a shell having an interior space extending to an open end, and a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte disposed in the interior space of the shell. The sealing member is also disposed adjacent to the open end of the shell. In particular, the sealing member contains a polymer composition comprising polyarylene sulfide. By selectively controlling the specific properties of the components of the polymer composition and their relative concentrations, the inventors have found that the resulting polymer composition can achieve a unique combination of properties, thereby facilitating its use in the sealing member of a non-aqueous electrochemical cell. For example, the polymer composition can include at least one bifunctional polymer containing an epoxy functional group and a (meth) acrylate functional group. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that such polymers can contribute to improving adhesion to other components of the electrochemical cell to help minimize leakage of the electrode from the shell. If desired, the polymer composition can also generally be free of certain additives that may interfere with the adhesion of the sealing member to other components of the battery, such as inorganic fibers (e.g., glass fibers) and / or inorganic particulate fillers (e.g., talc, mica, etc.).

[0012] In addition to helping improve adhesion to other battery components, the polymer composition may also exhibit other beneficial properties that can help minimize electrolyte leakage. For example, the composition may still exhibit good flow properties, which is reflected in a relatively low melt viscosity, for example, as measured at a temperature of about 310°C and 1,000 s in accordance with ISO 11443:2021. -1The polymer composition may have a shear rate of about 30 kP or less, in some embodiments about 20 kP or less, in some embodiments about 10 kP or less, in some embodiments about 5 kP or less, and in some embodiments about 0.5 kP to about 4 kP. The polymer composition may also retain a high degree of heat resistance, which may be characterized by its deflection temperature under load (“DTUL”). More specifically, the polymer composition may exhibit a DTUL value of about 70° C. to about 220° C., in some embodiments about 80° C. to about 200° C., and in some embodiments about 90° C. to about 150° C., as measured under a load of 1.8 MPa according to ISO 75-2:2013.

[0013] Despite having a lower melt viscosity, the polymer composition can still maintain high impact strength and tensile strength, thereby providing enhanced flexibility to the resulting structure. For example, the polymer composition can exhibit a tensile strength of about 6 kJ / m2 measured at a temperature of 23°C according to ISO 179-1:2010. 2 or greater, such as about 10 kJ / m in some embodiments. 2 to about 50 kJ / m 2 , and in some embodiments about 15 kJ / m 2 to about 30 kJ / m 2 The composition may also exhibit a tensile stress at break of about 50 MPa or greater, in some embodiments, about 40 MPa to about 250 MPa, and in some embodiments, about 60 MPa to about 200 MPa; a tensile strain at break of about 1% or greater, in some embodiments, about 1.2% to about 5%; and / or a tensile modulus of about 8,000 MPa or greater, in some embodiments, about 9,000 MPa to about 20,000 MPa, and in some embodiments, about 10,000 MPa to about 18,000 MPa. Tensile properties may be measured according to ISO 527:2019 at a temperature of 23°C. The composition may also exhibit a flexural strength of about 50 MPa or greater, in some embodiments, about 60 MPa to about 350 MPa, and in some embodiments, about 80 MPa to about 300 MPa; and / or a flexural modulus of about 1,000 MPa to about 20,000 MPa, in some embodiments, about 1,500 MPa to about 15,000 MPa, and in some embodiments, about 2,000 MPa to about 10,000 MPa. Flexural properties may be measured according to ISO 178:2019 at a temperature of 23°C.

[0014] Various embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below.

[0015] I. polymer composition

[0016] A. Polyarylene sulfide

[0017] The polymer composition typically contains one or more polyarylene sulfides, typically in an amount of about 60 wt.% to about 99 wt.%, in some embodiments about 70 wt.% to about 96 wt.%, in some embodiments about 75 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, and in some embodiments about 80 wt.% to about 94 wt.% of the total polymer composition. The polyarylene sulfide can be a homopolymer or a copolymer. For example, the selective combination of dihalogenated aromatic compounds can obtain a polyarylene sulfide copolymer containing not less than two different units. For example, when p-dichlorobenzene is used in combination with m-dichlorobenzene or 4,4'-dichlorodiphenyl sulfone, the polyarylene sulfide formed can contain:

[0018] A segment having the structure of the formula:

[0019]

[0020] and a segment having a structure of the formula:

[0021]

[0022] Or a segment having a structure of the formula:

[0023]

[0024] Polyarylene sulfide can be linear, semi-linear, branched or cross-linked. Linear polyarylene sulfide generally contains 80 mol% or more of the repeating unit -(Ar-S)-. Such linear polymers may also include a small amount of branched units or cross-linking units, but the amount of branched units or cross-linking units is generally less than about 1 mol% of the total monomer units of the polyarylene sulfide. The linear polyarylene sulfide polymer may be a random copolymer or a block copolymer containing the above-mentioned repeating units. Semi-linear polyarylene sulfide may also have a cross-linked structure or a branched structure introduced into the polymer by a small amount of one or more monomers having three or more reactive functional groups. For example, the monomer component for forming the semi-linear polyarylene sulfide may include a certain amount of a polyhalogenated aromatic compound having two or more halogen substituents per molecule, which can be used to prepare a branched polymer. Such a monomer can be represented by the formula R'X nRepresents, wherein each X is selected from chlorine, bromine and iodine, n is an integer from 3 to 6, and R' is an n-valent polyvalent aromatic group which may have up to about 4 methyl substituents, the total number of carbon atoms in R' ranging from 6 to about 16. Examples of some polyhalogenated aromatic compounds having more than two halogen substitutions per molecule that can be used to form semi-linear polyarylene sulfide include 1,2,3-trichlorobenzene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, 1,3-dichloro-5-bromobenzene, 1,2,4-triiodobenzene, 1,2,3,5-tetrabromobenzene, hexachlorobenzene, 1,3,5-trichloro-2,4,6-trimethylbenzene, 2,2',4,4'-tetrachlorobiphenyl, 2,2',5,5'-tetraiodobiphenyl, 2,2',6,6'-tetrabromo-3,3',5,5'-tetramethylbiphenyl, 1,2,3,4-tetrachloronaphthalene, 1,2,4-tribromo-6-methylnaphthalene, and the like, and mixtures thereof.

[0025] If desired, polyarylene sulfide can be functionalized. For example, a disulfide compound containing a reactive functional group (e.g., carboxyl, hydroxyl, amine, etc.) can react with polyarylene sulfide. The functionalization of polyarylene sulfide can also provide a binding site between any difunctional polymer and polyarylene sulfide, thereby improving the distribution of the difunctional polymer in the entire polyarylene sulfide and preventing phase separation. The disulfide compound can react with the polyarylene sulfide during melt processing to reduce its overall melt viscosity. When used, the disulfide compound generally constitutes about 0.01wt.% to about 3wt.% of the polymer composition, in some embodiments about 0.02wt.% to about 1wt.%, and in some embodiments about 0.05wt.% to about 0.5wt.%. The ratio of the amount of polyarylene sulfide to the amount of the disulfide compound can also be about 1000:1 to about 10:1, about 500:1 to about 20:1, or about 400:1 to about 30:1. Suitable disulfide compounds are generally those having the formula:

[0026] R 3 –S–S–R 4

[0027] where R 3 and R 4 can be the same or different and are independently hydrocarbon groups containing from 1 to about 20 carbon atoms. For example, R 3 and R 4 Can be alkyl, cycloalkyl, aryl or heterocyclic group. In certain embodiments, R 3 and R 4 Typically a non-reactive functional group such as phenyl, naphthyl, ethyl, methyl, propyl, etc. Examples of such compounds include diphenyl disulfide, naphthyl disulfide, dimethyl disulfide, diethyl disulfide, and dipropyl disulfide. 3 and R 4A reactive functional group at the end of the disulfide compound may also be included. For example, R 3 and R 4 At least one of the compounds may include a terminal carboxyl group, a hydroxyl group, a substituted or unsubstituted amino group, a nitro group, etc. Examples of the compound may include, but are not limited to, 2,2'-diaminodiphenyl disulfide, 3,3'-diaminodiphenyl disulfide, 4,4'-diaminodiphenyl disulfide, dibenzyl disulfide, dithiosalicylic acid (or 2,2'-dithiobenzoic acid), dithioglycolic acid, α,α'-dithiodilactic acid, β,β'-dithiodilactic acid, 3,3'-dithiodipyridine, 4,4'-dithiomorpholine, 2,2'-dithiobis(benzothiazole), 2,2'-dithiobis(benzimidazole), 2,2'-dithiobis(benzoxazole), 2-(4'-morpholinodithio)benzothiazole, etc., and mixtures thereof.

[0028] The polyarylene sulfide may have a melt flow rate of about 100 grams per 10 minutes ("g / 10 min") to about 800 g / 10 min, in some embodiments, from about 200 g / 10 min to about 700 g / 10 min, and in some embodiments, from about 300 g / 10 min to about 600 g / 10 min, as measured in accordance with ISO 1133 under a load of 5 kg and a temperature of 316°C.

[0029] Polyarylene sulfide, such as described above, typically has a DTUL value of from about 70° C. to about 220° C., in some embodiments from about 90° C. to about 200° C., and in some embodiments from about 120° C. to about 180° C., as measured under a load of 1.8 MPa according to ISO 75-2:2013. Polyarylene sulfide also typically has a glass transition temperature of from about 50° C. to about 120° C., in some embodiments from about 60° C. to about 115° C., and in some embodiments from about 70° C. to about 110° C., and a melting temperature of from about 220° C. to about 340° C., in some embodiments from about 240° C. to about 320° C., and in some embodiments from about 260° C. to about 300° C.

[0030] B. Bifunctional polymers

[0031] As mentioned above, bifunctional polymers can also be used in polymer compositions. Typically, for every 100 parts by weight of polyarylene sulfide, bifunctional polymers constitute about 1 part by weight to about 20 parts by weight, in some embodiments about 2 parts by weight to about 16 parts by weight, in some embodiments about 3 parts by weight to about 15 parts by weight, and in some embodiments about 4 parts by weight to about 12 parts by weight. For example, bifunctional polymers can constitute about 1wt.% to about 20wt.% of the polymer composition, in some embodiments about 3wt.% to about 15wt.%, and in some embodiments about 4wt.% to about 12wt.%. As mentioned above, polymers are generally considered to be "bifunctional" because they contain both epoxy functional groups and (meth) acrylate functional groups. As used herein, the term "(meth) acrylate" generally includes acrylic acid groups and methacrylic acid groups, and salts or esters thereof, such as acrylic acid groups and methacrylate groups. Epoxy functional groups and (meth) acrylate functional groups can be provided on the same monomeric unit of the polymer and / or on different monomeric units. In one embodiment, for example, functional groups can be provided in the same monomeric unit. In such an embodiment, for example, the bifunctional polymer may contain monomer units derived from epoxy-functional (meth)acrylates, such as, but not limited to, those containing 1,2-epoxy groups, such as glycidyl acrylate and glycidyl methacrylate. Other suitable epoxy-functional (meth)acrylates include glycidyl ethacrylate and glycidyl itaconate.

[0032] Of course, other suitable monomers may also be used to help achieve the desired molecular weight. In one embodiment, for example, the bifunctional polymer may also contain olefin monomer units derived from α-olefins. Examples of such monomers include, for example, linear and / or branched α-olefins having from 2 to 20 carbon atoms and typically from 2 to 8 carbon atoms. Specific examples include: ethylene, propylene, 1-butene; 3-methyl-1-butene; 3,3-dimethyl-1-butene; 1-pentene; 1-pentene having one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-hexene having one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-heptene having one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-octene having one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-nonene having one or more methyl, ethyl or propyl substituents; 1-decene substituted with ethyl, methyl or dimethyl; 1-dodecene; and styrene. Particularly desirable α-olefins are ethylene and propylene. For example, in one embodiment, the bifunctional polymer can be a copolymer of an alpha-olefin (eg, ethylene) and glycidyl (meth)acrylate.Another suitable monomer unit that may be used alternatively may include monomer units derived from non-epoxy functionalized (meth)acrylates. Examples of such (meth)acrylates may include methyl acrylate, ethyl acrylate, n-propyl acrylate, isopropyl acrylate, n-butyl acrylate, sec-butyl acrylate, isobutyl acrylate, tert-butyl acrylate, n-pentyl acrylate, isopentyl acrylate, isobornyl acrylate, n-hexyl acrylate, 2-ethylbutyl acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl acrylate, n-octyl acrylate, n-decyl acrylate, methylcyclohexyl acrylate, cyclopentyl acrylate, cyclohexyl acrylate, methyl methacrylate, ethyl methacrylate, 2-hydroxyethyl methacrylate, n-propyl methacrylate, n-butyl methacrylate, isopropyl methacrylate, isobutyl methacrylate, n-pentyl methacrylate, n-hexyl methacrylate, isopentyl methacrylate, sec-butyl methacrylate, tert-butyl methacrylate, 2-ethylbutyl methacrylate, methylcyclohexyl methacrylate, cinnamyl methacrylate, crotyl methacrylate, cyclohexyl methacrylate, cyclopentyl methacrylate, 2-ethoxyethyl methacrylate, isobornyl methacrylate, and the like, and combinations thereof. For example, in one embodiment, the bifunctional polymer can be a copolymer of an α-olefin (eg, ethylene), glycidyl (meth)acrylate, and a non-epoxy functional (meth)acrylate (eg, butyl acrylate, methyl acrylate, etc.).

[0033] The epoxy content of the overall composition can be selectively controlled to help achieve the desired melt flow viscosity, ductility and impact strength. For example, too low an epoxy content may result in a weak interaction with the polyarylene sulfide and thus limit the impact strength of the resulting polymer composition. On the other hand, too high an epoxy content may affect the overall ductility of the composition. Therefore, it is generally desirable that the epoxy content of the composition be: for every 100 parts by weight of polyarylene sulfide used in the polymer composition, about 0.3 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight, in some embodiments about 0.35 parts by weight to about 1.6 parts by weight, in some embodiments about 0.4 parts by weight to about 1.4 parts by weight, and in some embodiments about 0.5 parts by weight to about 1 part by weight. In certain embodiments, for example, an epoxy-functionalized (meth)acrylate monomer (e.g., glycidyl methacrylate) may constitute about 1 wt.% to about 20 wt.% of the polymer, in some embodiments about 2 wt.% to about 15 wt.%, and in some embodiments about 3 wt.% to about 10 wt.%. When used, α-olefin monomers may likewise constitute from about 55 wt.% to about 95 wt.%, in some embodiments from about 60 wt.% to about 90 wt.%, and in some embodiments from about 65 wt.% to about 85 wt.% of the polymer, and non-epoxy-functional (meth)acrylate monomers may constitute from about 5 wt.% to about 35 wt.%, in some embodiments from about 8 wt.% to about 30 wt.%, and in some embodiments from about 10 wt.% to about 25 wt.% of the copolymer.

[0034] The melt flow index of the bifunctional polymer can also be selectively controlled to help achieve the desired properties. For example, the melt flow index of the bifunctional polymer can be from about 1 gram per 10 minutes ("g / 10 min") to about 30 g / 10 min, in some embodiments from about 2 g / 10 min to about 20 g / 10 min, and in some embodiments from about 4 g / 10 min to about 15 g / 10 min, as measured according to ASTM D1238-20 under a load of 2.16 kg and a temperature of 190°C. Specific examples of suitable bifunctional polymers that can be used can be found under the names SK AX 8840 or AX 8900 are commercially available. For example, AX 8840 is a random copolymer of ethylene and glycidyl methacrylate (8 wt. %) and has a melt flow melt index of 5 g / 10 min at 190°C. AX 8900 is a random copolymer of ethylene, methyl acrylate (24 wt.%) and glycidyl methacrylate (8 wt.%) and has a melt flow melt index of 6 g / 10 min at 190°C. Another suitable copolymer is available from Dow Corning under the name PTW is commercially available as a terpolymer of ethylene, butyl acrylate, and glycidyl methacrylate (5 wt. %) and has a melt flow index of 12 g / 10 min.

[0035] C. epoxy resin

[0036] Although optional, the polymer composition may further include an epoxy resin. The epoxy resin may be selected to have a specific controlled epoxy equivalent weight, which may allow it to undergo a cross-linking reaction with a bifunctional polymer, thereby improving the compatibility of the components and improving the mechanical properties of the resulting composition. The epoxy group of the resin is also believed to further enhance the adhesion of the composition to the metal component. When used, the epoxy resin typically constitutes about 0.1 to about 10 parts by weight, in some embodiments about 0.2 to about 5 parts by weight, and in some embodiments about 0.3 to about 1 part by weight per 100 parts by weight of polyarylene sulfide. For example, the epoxy resin may constitute about 0.1 wt.% to about 10 wt.%, in some embodiments about 0.2 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, and in some embodiments about 0.3 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of the polymer composition.

[0037] Epoxy resins with a specific epoxy equivalent weight are particularly effective for use in polymer compositions. That is, as determined according to ASTM D1652-11 (2019), the epoxy equivalent weight can typically be from about 250 to about 1,500 grams per gram equivalent, in some embodiments from about 400 to about 1,000 grams per gram equivalent, and in some embodiments from about 500 to about 800 grams per gram equivalent. Epoxy resins also typically contain an average of at least about 1.3, in some embodiments from about 1.6 to about 8, and in some embodiments from about 2 to about 5 epoxy groups per molecule. Therefore, the epoxy content of the resin can typically be from about 20 wt.% to about 80 wt.% of the resin, in some embodiments from about 40 wt.% to about 75 wt.%, and in some embodiments from about 50 wt.% to about 70 wt.%. The epoxy resin may have a relatively low dynamic viscosity, for example, from about 1 centipoise to about 25 centipoise, in some embodiments from 2 centipoise to about 20 centipoise, and in some embodiments from about 5 centipoise to about 15 centipoise, as measured according to ASTM D445-21 at a temperature of 25° C. Epoxy resins are also typically solid or semisolid materials at room temperature (25° C.) having a melting point of from about 50° C. to about 120° C., in some embodiments from about 60° C. to about 110° C., and in some embodiments from about 70° C. to about 100° C.

[0038] Epoxy resin can be saturated or unsaturated, straight or branched, aliphatic, alicyclic, aromatic or heterocycle, and can have the substituent that does not interfere with the reaction with oxyethane basically.Suitable epoxy resin comprises, for example, and glycidyl ether (for example, diglycidyl ether), and it is by making epichlorohydrin and the hydroxy compound reaction that contains at least 1.5 aromatic hydroxy groups prepare under alkaline reaction conditions alternatively.Dihydroxy compound is suitable especially.For example, epoxy resin can be the diglycidyl ether of dihydric phenol, the diglycidyl ether of hydrogenated dihydric phenol etc.The diglycidyl ether of dihydric phenol can for example be formed by making epihalohydrin and dihydric phenol reaction. Examples of suitable dihydric phenols include, for example, 2,2-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)propane ("bisphenol A"); 2,2-bis(4-hydroxy-3-tert-butylphenyl)propane; 1,1-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)ethane; 1,1-bis(4-hydroxyphenyl)isobutane; bis(2-hydroxy-1-naphthyl)methane; 1,5-dihydroxynaphthalene; 1,1-bis(4-hydroxy-3-alkylphenyl)ethane, and the like. Suitable dihydric phenols can also be obtained by the reaction of phenol with an aldehyde, such as formaldehyde ("bisphenol F"). Commercially available examples of such epoxy resins can include EPON available from Hexion, Inc. under the designations 862, 828, 826, 825, 1001, 1002, SU3, 154, 1031, 1050, 133, and 165. TM Resin.

[0039] D. Optional components

[0040] In addition to the above components, the polymer composition may also contain various other optional components to help improve its overall properties. As mentioned above, the polymer composition may also generally be free of certain additives, such as inorganic fibers and / or inorganic particulate fillers. For example, examples of inorganic particulate fillers may include clay minerals, such as talc (Mg3Si4O 10 (OH)2), halloysite (Al2Si2O5(OH)4), kaolin (Al2Si2O5(OH)4), illite ((K,H3O)(Al,Mg,Fe)2(Si,Al)4O 10 [(OH)2,(H2O)]), montmorillonite ((Na,Ca) 0.33 (Al,Mg)2Si4O 10 (OH)2 . nH2O), vermiculite ((MgFe,Al)3(Al,Si)4O 10 (OH)2 . 4H2O), palygorskite ((Mg,Al)2Si4O 10 (OH) . 4(H2O)) and pyrophyllite (Al2Si4O 10(OH)2); carbonate fillers (e.g., calcium carbonate); silicate fillers (e.g., calcium silicate, aluminum silicate, mica, diatomaceous earth, and wollastonite); and sulfate fillers (e.g., barium sulfate and calcium sulfate). Examples of inorganic fibers may include, for example, glass fibers. By "substantially free," it is contemplated that such additives are completely absent from the composition, or at least present only in trace amounts. For example, such release additives are typically present in an amount of about 1,000 ppm ("parts per million") or less, in some embodiments about 500 ppm or less, in some embodiments about 100 ppm or less, and in some embodiments about 50 ppm or less (e.g., 0 ppm).

[0041] If desired, a crosslinking system can also be used in combination with a bifunctional polymer to help further improve the strength and flexibility of the composition under various conditions. When used, such a crosslinking system, which may contain one or more crosslinking agents, typically constitutes about 0.01 to about 5 parts per 100 parts of polyarylene sulfide, in some embodiments about 0.02 to about 3 parts, and in some embodiments about 0.05 to about 1 part, and such a crosslinking system constitutes about 0.01 wt.% to about 5 wt.% of the polymer composition, in some embodiments about 0.02 wt.% to about 3 wt.%, and in some embodiments about 0.05 wt.% to about 1 wt.%. By using such a crosslinking system, the compatibility and distribution of the polyarylene sulfide and the impact modifier can be significantly improved. For example, the impact modifier can be dispersed in the polymer composition in the form of discrete domains of nanometer size. For example, the domain can have an average cross-sectional size of about 1 nanometer to about 1000 nanometers, in some embodiments about 5 nanometers to about 800 nanometers, and in some embodiments about 10 nanometers to about 500 nanometers. The domains can have a variety of shapes, such as ellipsoidal, spherical, cylindrical, plate-like, tubular, etc. This improved dispersion can lead to better mechanical properties or allow equivalent mechanical properties to be achieved with a lower amount of impact modifier.

[0042] Generally, any cross-linking agent among various cross-linking agents can be used in the cross-linking system. For example, in one embodiment, the cross-linking system may include metal carboxylates. Without intending to be limited by theory, it is believed that the metal atom in the carboxylates can act as Lewis acids, which receive electrons from the oxygen atoms in the functional groups (e.g., epoxy functional groups) of the difunctional polymer. Once reacted with carboxylates, the functional groups will be activated and can be attacked by nucleophilic substitution at any carbon atom in the three-membered ring, thereby resulting in cross-linking between the chains of the difunctional polymer. Metal carboxylates are generally metal salts of fatty acids. The metal cation used in the salt can vary, but is generally a divalent metal, such as calcium, magnesium, lead, barium, strontium, zinc, iron, cadmium, nickel, copper, tin, etc., and mixtures thereof. Zinc is particularly suitable. Fatty acids can generally be any saturated or unsaturated acid with a carbon chain length of about 8 to 22 carbon atoms, and in some embodiments about 10 to about 18 carbon atoms. If necessary, the acid can be substituted. Suitable fatty acids can include, for example, lauric acid, myristic acid, behenic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, ricinoleic acid, capric acid, neodecanoic acid, hydrogenated tallow fatty acids, hydroxystearic acid, hydrogenated castor oil fatty acids, erucic acid, coconut oil fatty acids, and the like, and mixtures thereof. The metal carboxylates typically comprise from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5 wt.%, in some embodiments from about 0.1 wt.% to about 2 wt.%, and in some embodiments from about 0.2 wt.% to about 1 wt.% of the polymer composition.

[0043] Crosslinking system can also use " multifunctional " crosslinking agent, it contains at least two reactive functional groups.This multifunctional crosslinking agent can be used as weak nucleophile, it can react with the functional group (for example, epoxy functional group) of activation on impact modifier.The multifunctional property of this molecule enables them to bridge two functional groups on difunctional polymer, thereby effectively being used as curing agent.Multifunctional crosslinking agent generally comprises two or more reactive functional end parts connected by key or non-polymeric (non-repetitive) linking component.For example, crosslinking agent can comprise diepoxide, multifunctional epoxide, diisocyanate, polyisocyanate, polyol, water-soluble carbodiimide, diamine, glycol, diaminoalkane, multifunctional carboxylic acid, diacyl halide etc.Multifunctional carboxylic acid and amine are particularly suitable. Specific examples of multifunctional carboxylic acid crosslinking agents may include, but are not limited to, isophthalic acid, terephthalic acid, phthalic acid, 1,2-di(p-carboxyphenyl)ethane, 4,4'-dicarboxydiphenyl ether, 4,4'-bisbenzoic acid, 1,4- or 1,5-naphthalene dicarboxylic acid, decahydronaphthalene dicarboxylic acid, norbornene dicarboxylic acid, bicyclooctane dicarboxylic acid, 1,4-cyclohexane dicarboxylic acid (cis and trans), 1,4-hexane dicarboxylic acid, adipic acid, azelaic acid, dicarboxyl dodecanoic acid, succinic acid, maleic acid, glutaric acid, suberic acid, azelaic acid and sebacic acid. Corresponding dicarboxylic acid derivatives may also be used, such as carboxylic acid diesters, carboxylic anhydrides or carboxylic acid halides having 1 to 4 carbon atoms in the alcohol group. In certain embodiments, aromatic dicarboxylic acids are particularly suitable, such as isophthalic acid or terephthalic acid.

[0044] Other components that may be included in the composition may also include, for example, lubricants, antimicrobial agents, pigments (eg, black pigment), antioxidants, stabilizers, surfactants, flow promoters, solid solvents, and other materials added to enhance performance and processability.

[0045] II. Melt processing

[0046] The combination of polyarylene sulfide, bifunctional polymer and various other optional additives can be varied as known in the art. For example, the materials can be supplied simultaneously or sequentially to a melt processing device for dispersively blending the materials. Batch and / or continuous melt processing techniques can be used. For example, a mixer / kneader, Banbury mixer, Farrel continuous mixer, single screw extruder, twin screw extruder, roller mill, etc. can be used to blend and melt process the materials. A particularly suitable melt processing device is a co-rotating twin screw extruder (e.g., a Leistritz co-rotating fully intermeshing twin screw extruder). This extruder can include a feed port and a discharge port and provides high-intensity distribution and dispersive mixing. For example, the components can be fed to the same or different feed ports of a twin screw extruder and melt blended to form a substantially uniform molten mixture. Melt blending can be carried out under high shear / pressure and heat to ensure sufficient dispersion. For example, melt processing can be performed at a temperature of about 100° C. to about 500° C., and in some embodiments, at a temperature of about 150° C. to about 300° C. Likewise, the apparent shear rate during melt processing can be about 100 s -1 to about 10,000s -1 , and in some embodiments about 500s -1 to about 1,500s -1 Of course, other variables, such as residence time during melt processing (which is inversely proportional to throughput rate), can also be controlled to achieve the desired uniformity.

[0047] If desired, one or more distributive and / or dispersive mixing elements can be used in the mixing section of the melt processing unit. Suitable distributive mixers can include, for example, Saxon, Dulmage, Cavity Transfer mixers, etc. Similarly, suitable dispersive mixers can include Blister rings, Leroy / Maddock, CRD mixers, etc. It is well known in the art that the intensity of mixing can be further increased by using pins in the barrel that produce folding and redirection of the polymer melt, such as those used in Buss kneading extruders, Cavity Transfer mixers, and Vortex Intermeshing Pin mixers. The speed of the screw can also be controlled to improve the properties of the composition. For example, the screw speed can be about 400 rpm or lower, for example, about 200 rpm to about 350 rpm in one embodiment, or about 225 rpm to about 325 rpm in one embodiment. In one embodiment, the mixing conditions can be balanced to provide a polymer composition that exhibits improved performance. For example, the mixing conditions can include a screw design for providing gentle, moderate, or severe screw conditions. For example, a system can have a mild severity screw design, in which the screw has a single melting section in the downstream half of the screw, which is designed to achieve gentle melting and distributive melt homogenization. A moderate severity screw design can have a stronger melting section upstream of the filler feed barrel, which focuses more on stronger dispersing elements to achieve uniform melting. In addition, it can have another mild mixing section downstream to mix the filler. Although weaker, this section can still increase the shear strength of the screw, making it stronger overall than the mild severity design. A high severity screw design can have the strongest shear strength of the three. The main melting section can consist of a long row of highly dispersed kneading blocks. The downstream mixing section can utilize a mix of distributing elements and dense dispersing elements to achieve uniform dispersion of all types of fillers. The shear strength of the high severity screw design can be significantly higher than the other two designs. In one embodiment, a system can include a moderate to severe screw design with relatively mild screw speeds (e.g., about 200 rpm and about 300 rpm).

[0048] The resulting polymer composition may have a crystallization temperature (before forming a molded part) of about 250° C. or less, in some embodiments from about 100° C. to about 245° C., and in some embodiments from about 150° C. to about 240° C. The polymer composition may also have a melting temperature of 140° C. to about 380° C., in some embodiments from about 200° C. to about 360° C., in some embodiments from about 250° C. to about 320° C., and in some embodiments from about 260° C. to about 300° C. Melting and crystallization temperatures may be determined using differential scanning calorimetry according to ISO 11357-3:2018, as is well known in the art.

[0049] III. Sealing components

[0050] As mentioned above, the unique properties of polymer composition can more easily allow it to form a sealing member for non-aqueous electrochemical cells. The specific properties of sealing member can change as known in the art, and can be, for example, in the shape of a ring, gasket, plate, lid, etc. In any case, polymer composition can be formed into the form required for sealing member using various technologies (such as by molding, film forming, extrusion, etc.). In one embodiment, for example, polymer composition can be molded into the shape required for sealing member. Suitable molding technology can include, for example, injection molding, extrusion compression molding, gas injection molding, foam injection molding, low-pressure gas injection molding, low-pressure foam injection molding, gas extrusion compression molding, foam extrusion compression molding, extrusion molding, foam extrusion molding, compression molding, foam compression molding, gas compression molding, etc. For example, the injection molding system including a mold can be used, and polymer composition can be injected into the mold. The time inside the syringe can be controlled and optimized so that the polymer matrix is ​​not pre-cured. When the cycle time is reached and the barrel is full with discharge, a piston can be used to inject the composition into the mold cavity.

[0051] IV. Non-aqueous electrochemical batteries

[0052] The sealing member can be used in a variety of non-aqueous electrochemical cell configurations known in the art (e.g., lithium-ion batteries). Such batteries typically include an electrode assembly housed within the interior space of a housing, the electrode assembly comprising a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The positive electrode may include a positive electrode material. For example, suitable positive electrode active materials may include: metal oxides, such as manganese dioxide, vanadium oxide, niobium oxide, titanium oxide, etc.; sulfides, such as iron disulfide; fluorides, such as graphite fluoride; lithium-containing metal oxides, such as Li x Mn3O6(0 <x<2)、Li x MnO2(0 <x<1)、Li x Ti 5 / 3 O4(4 / 3≤x<7 / 3), LiMn2O4, LiMn1 / 3Ni 1 / 3 Co 1 / 3 O2、LiMn 5 / 12 Ni 5 / 12 Co 1 / 6 O2、LiN i3 / 5 Mn 1 / 5 Co 1 / 5 O2, etc.); etc. and combinations thereof. Substituted spinel structure composite oxides containing lithium in a layered structure, such as Li 1+x M 1 O2(-0.1 <x<0.1,M 1 are metals such as Co, Ni, Mn, Al, Mg, etc. Examples thereof include lithium-containing composite oxides such as those composed of LiM 2 PO4(M 2 is an olivine-type compound represented by a metal such as Co, Ni, Mn, Fe, etc. The negative electrode may also include a negative electrode active material. For example, examples of such materials may include: lithium or lithium alloys (e.g., lithium aluminum alloys); carbonaceous materials such as graphite, activated carbon, carbon fibers, glassy carbon, mesophase carbon microbeads; and the like, and combinations thereof. If desired, a conductive promoter may also be used in the positive electrode and / or negative electrode active material to further increase conductivity. Exemplary conductive promoters may include, for example, carbon black, (natural or artificial) graphite, graphite, carbon nanotubes, nanowires or nanotubes, metal fibers, graphene, and the like, and mixtures thereof. Binders may also be used in positive and / or negative active electrode materials, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), styrene butadiene rubber (SBR), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP), and the like.

[0053] The positive electrode and / or electrode active material can be arranged on the current collector. The current collector is generally formed by a substrate comprising a conductive metal (such as aluminum, stainless steel, nickel, silver, palladium, etc. and alloys thereof). Aluminum and aluminum alloys are particularly suitable. The substrate can be in the form of a foil, a thin sheet, a plate, a mesh, etc. The substrate can also have a relatively small thickness, such as about 200 microns or less, in some embodiments about 1 micron to about 100 microns, in some embodiments about 5 microns to about 80 microns, and in some embodiments about 10 microns to about 50 microns. Although not necessary, the surface of the substrate can optionally be roughened, for example, by washing, etching, sandblasting, etc.

[0054] The electrode assembly also typically includes a separator located between the positive electrode and the negative electrode. If necessary, other separators may also be used in the electrode assembly. The separator can electrically isolate one electrode from the other to help prevent electrical short circuits, but still allow ions to be transmitted between the two electrodes. In certain embodiments, for example, a separator comprising a cellulose fiber material (e.g., an air-laid paper web, a wet-laid paper web, etc.), a non-woven fiber material (e.g., a polyolefin non-woven web), a woven fabric, a microporous membrane, etc. may be used. Microporous films containing polyolefins (such as polypropylene, polyethylene (e.g., ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene), etc.) are particularly suitable. Regardless of the specific material used, the separator typically has a thickness of about 5 microns to about 150 microns, about 10 microns to about 100 microns in some embodiments, and about 20 microns to about 80 microns in some embodiments. In any case, the way the components of the electrode assembly are combined can vary. For example, the electrode and separator can initially be folded, wound, or otherwise contacted together to form an electrode assembly. In a specific embodiment, the electrode and separator can be wound into an electrode assembly having a "core roll" structure.

[0055] Before, during, and / or after the electrodes and separator are combined to form an electrode assembly, an electrolyte is also placed in ionic contact with the electrodes. The electrolyte typically comprises a salt dissolved in an organic solvent. When forming a lithium ion battery, for example, the salt can be a lithium salt such as LiClO4, LiPF6, LiBF4, LiAsF6, LiSbF6, LiCF3SO3, LiCF3CO2, Li2C2F4(SO3)2, LiN(CF3SO2)2, LiC(CF3SO2)3, LiC n F 2n+1 SO3(n > 2) LiN(R f OSO2)2[where R fis fluoroalkyl] and the like and combinations thereof. Other suitable salts may include ionic liquid salts, such as spiral -(1,1 ')-bispyrrolidinium tetrafluoroborate, triethylmethylammonium tetrafluoroborate, tetraethylammonium tetrafluoroborate, spiral -(1,1 ')-bispyrrolidinium iodide, triethylmethylammonium iodide, tetraethylammonium iodide, methyltriethylammonium tetrafluoroborate, tetrabutylammonium tetrafluoroborate, tetraethylammonium hexafluorophosphate, etc. Although the concentration of the salt may vary, it is typically present in an amount of about 0.5 moles or more per liter (M) of electrolyte, in some embodiments about 0.5M to about 1.5M, and in some embodiments about 0.8M to about 1.4M. The electrolyte is typically non-aqueous in nature and therefore contains at least one non-aqueous solvent. Particularly suitable solvents may include, for example, cyclic carbonate solvents, such as ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, butylene carbonate, vinylene carbonate, etc. Of course, other non-aqueous solvents may also be used alone or in combination with cyclic carbonate solvents. Examples of such solvents may include, for example: open-chain carbonates (e.g., dimethyl carbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, etc.); aliphatic monocarboxylic acid esters (e.g., methyl acetate, methyl propionate, etc.); lactone solvents (e.g., butyrolactone, valerolactone, etc.); nitriles (e.g., acetonitrile, glutaronitrile, adiponitrile, methoxyacetonitrile, 3-methoxypropionitrile, etc.); amides (e.g., N,N-dimethylformamide, N,N-diethylacetamide, N-methylpyrrolidone); alkanes (e.g., nitromethane, nitroethane, etc.); sulfur compounds (e.g., cyclopentane, dimethyl sulfoxide, etc.); and the like.

[0056] As described above, the battery also includes a shell with an inner space, and the electrode assembly and the electrolyte are contained in the inner space. The properties of the shell can be changed as needed. In one embodiment, for example, the shell can include a metal container ("can") formed by, for example, tantalum, niobium, aluminum, nickel, hafnium, titanium, copper, silver, steel (e.g., stainless steel), its alloy, its composite material (e.g., a metal coated with a conductive oxide), etc. Aluminum or stainless steel are particularly suitable. The shell can have any of various different shapes, such as cylindrical, button-shaped, coin-shaped, prismatic, D-shaped, etc. In any case, the shell generally includes an open end, and the above-mentioned sealing member can be arranged on the open end.

[0057] refer to Figure 1, for example, shows an embodiment of a battery 1, which includes a housing 5, the housing 5 including an interior space, in which a positive electrode 2, a separator 4, a negative electrode 3, and an electrolyte (not shown) are arranged. A cover 6, which can be formed as a sealing member as described herein, is also provided on the opening of the housing 5. A gasket 7 can also be inserted into the interior space of the housing 5 so that the gasket 7 is positioned between the housing and the cover 6. If desired, the gasket 7 can be formed as a sealing member as described herein. In the embodiment shown, the open end of the housing 5 is bent inwardly so that the gasket 7 contacts the cover 6 and the opening of the housing 5 is sealed.

[0058] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the battery 1 is generally in the shape of a coin or a button. Of course, other configurations known in the art may also be used. Figure 2 , for example, a cylindrical battery 10 is shown, which includes a housing 12 having a closed bottom and an open top, the open top being closed with a battery cover 14 and a gasket 16. The battery cover 14 and / or the gasket 16 can be formed as a sealing member as described herein. In the embodiment shown, the housing 12 has a crimp or a step with a reduced diameter near the top to support the gasket 16 and the cover 14. The gasket 16 is compressed between the housing 12 and the cover 14 to seal the negative electrode 18, the positive electrode 20 and the electrolyte (not shown) within the battery 10. The negative electrode 18, the positive electrode 20 and the separator 26 are spirally wound together to form an electrode assembly. The positive electrode 20 may include a current collector 22, which extends from the top of the electrode assembly and is connected to the inner surface of the cover 14 by a contact spring 24. The negative electrode 18 may also be electrically connected to the inner surface of the housing 12 by a metal sheet (not shown). An insulating cone 46 may be located around the peripheral portion of the top of the electrode assembly to prevent contact between the cathode current collector 22 and the housing 12, and contact between the bottom edge of the positive electrode 20 and the bottom of the housing 12 is prevented by an inwardly folded extension of the separator 26 and an electrically insulating bottom disc 44 located at the bottom of the housing 12. The battery 10 may also have a separate positive end cap 40, which is held in place by the inwardly curled top edge of the housing 12 and the gasket 16. The cap 40 may also be formed as a sealing member as described herein. If desired, a positive temperature coefficient device 42 may be positioned between the peripheral flange of the end cap 40 and the cell cover 14 to help limit the flow of current under certain conditions. The battery 10 may also include a pressure relief vent. For example, the cell cover 14 may have an orifice comprising an inwardly projecting central vent well 28 and a vent hole 30 located at the bottom of the well 28. The orifice is sealed by a vent ball 32 and a bushing 34, which is compressed between the vertical wall of the vent well 28 and the periphery of the vent ball 32. When the internal pressure exceeds a predetermined level, the vent ball 32 or both the vent ball 32 and bushing 34 are forced out of the orifice to release the pressurized gas from the cell 10 .

[0059] V. electric vehicles

[0060] While the above-described batteries may be used in a variety of applications, the present inventors have discovered that such components are particularly well-suited for use in powertrains for electric vehicles, such as battery-powered electric vehicles, plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs), mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs), full hybrid electric vehicles (FHEVs), and the like. Figure 3 , for example, one embodiment of an electric vehicle 112 including a powertrain 110 is shown. The powertrain 110 includes one or more electric motors 114 connected to a transmission 116, which in turn is mechanically connected to a drive shaft 120 and drive wheels 122. Although not required, in this particular embodiment, the transmission 116 is also connected to an engine 118, although the description herein is equally applicable to purely electric vehicles. The electric motor 114 can be operated as a motor or a generator to provide propulsion and deceleration capabilities. The powertrain 110 also includes a propulsion source, such as a battery assembly 124 that stores and provides energy used by the electric motor 114. The battery assembly 124 typically provides a high voltage current output (e.g., DC current at a voltage of about 400 volts to about 800 volts) from one or more battery arrays that may include one or more batteries.

[0061] The power system 110 may also include at least one power electronics module 126, which is connected to a battery assembly 124 (also commonly referred to as a battery pack) containing one or more batteries of the present invention. The power electronics module 126 may also include a power converter (e.g., a converter, an inverter, etc., and a combination thereof). The power electronics module 126 is typically electrically connected to the motor 114 and provides the ability to transfer electrical energy bidirectionally between the battery assembly 124 and the motor 114. For example, the battery assembly 124 can provide a DC voltage, while the motor 114 may require a three-phase AC voltage to operate. The power electronics module 126 can convert the DC voltage into a three-phase AC voltage according to the needs of the motor 114. In regenerative mode, the power electronics module 126 can convert the three-phase AC voltage from the motor 114 acting as a generator into the DC voltage required by the battery assembly 124. The battery assembly 124 can also provide energy for other vehicle electrical systems. For example, the powertrain system may employ a DC / DC converter module 128 that converts the high-voltage DC output from the battery assembly 124 into a low-voltage DC supply compatible with other vehicle loads, such as a compressor and electric heater. In a typical vehicle, the low-voltage system is electrically connected to an auxiliary battery 130 (e.g., a 12V battery). A battery energy control module (BECM) 133 may also be present in communication with the battery assembly 124. This module serves as the controller for the battery assembly 124 and may include an electronic monitoring system that manages the temperature and state of charge of each battery cell. The battery assembly 124 may also have a temperature sensor 131, such as a thermistor or other thermometer. The temperature sensor 131 may communicate with the BECM 133 to provide temperature data regarding the battery assembly 124. The temperature sensor 131 may also be located on or near the cells within the traction battery 124. It is also contemplated that more than one temperature sensor 131 may be used to monitor the battery temperature. In certain embodiments, the battery assembly 124 may be recharged via an external power source 136 (e.g., an electrical outlet). The external power source 136 can be electrically connected to electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE), which regulates and manages the transfer of electrical energy between the power source 136 and the vehicle 112. The EVSE 138 can have a charging connector 140 for plugging into a charging port 134 of the vehicle 112. The charging port 134 can be any type of port configured to transfer power from the EVSE 138 to the vehicle 112 and can be electrically connected to a charger or an onboard power conversion module 132. The power conversion module 132 can condition the power supplied from the EVSE 138 to provide appropriate voltage and current levels to the battery assembly 124. The power conversion module 132 can interact with the EVSE 138 to coordinate the delivery of power to the vehicle 112.

[0062] The present invention may be better understood with reference to the following examples.

[0063] Test Method

[0064] Melt viscosity: Melt viscosity (Pa-s) can be measured according to ISO 11443:2021 in 400s -1 The viscosity of the melt is measured at a shear rate of 1000 nm using a Dynisco LCR 7001 capillary rheometer. The rheometer orifice (die) may have a diameter of 1 mm, a length of 20 mm, an L / D ratio of 20.1, and an inlet angle of 180°. The barrel diameter may be 9.55 mm + 0.005 mm, and the rod length may be 233.4 mm. Melt viscosity is typically measured at a temperature of 310°C.

[0065] Tensile modulus, tensile stress at break, and tensile strain at break: Tensile properties can be tested according to ISO 527-2 / 1A:2019 (technically equivalent to ASTM D638-14). Modulus and strength measurements can be performed on identical test strips measuring 80 mm in length, 10 mm in thickness, and 4 mm in width. The test temperature can be 23°C and the test speed can be 5 mm / min.

[0066] Flexural modulus and flexural stress: Flexural properties can be tested according to ISO 178:2019 (technically equivalent to ASTM D790-10). This test can be performed over a 64 mm support span. The test can be performed on the center section of an uncut ISO 3167 multipurpose bar. The test temperature can be 23°C and the test speed can be 2 mm / min.

[0067] Notched Charpy Impact Strength: Charpy properties can be tested according to ISO test number ISO 179-1:2010 (technically equivalent to ASTM D256-10, Method B). Type 1 specimen dimensions (80 mm length, 10 mm width, 4 mm thickness) can be used for this test. When testing notched impact strength, the notch can be a Type A notch (0.25 mm base radius). Specimens can be cut from the center of a multi-purpose bar using a single tooth milling machine. The testing temperature can be either 23°C or -30°C.

[0068] Leak testing: Leak testing can be performed in a vacuum chamber using helium as a tracer gas. This test can be used to inspect complete battery cells before and after electrolyte filling and sealing. The test pressure is 0.1 MPa to 1.0 MPa.

[0069] Materials used

[0070] "PPS" is a Celanese 0214 obtained linear polyphenylene sulfide;

[0071] "Bifunctional polymers" are AX 8840 (Arkema), a random copolymer of ethylene and glycidyl methacrylate (8 wt. %) having a melt index of 5 g / 10 min at 190°C;

[0072] "Epoxy resin" is EPON TM 1002F (Hexion), which is a solid epoxy resin derived from a liquid epoxy resin and bisphenol A and having two (2) moles of epoxy groups per mole of resin, an epoxy equivalent weight of 600 to 700 grams per equivalent weight as determined according to ASTM D1652-11 (2019), and an epoxy content of about 55 wt.% to 65 wt.%;

[0073] "Zinc stearate"; and

[0074] Lubricant is P(Lonza).

[0075] Examples 1-4

[0076] The various samples were melt-mixed using a 32mm Coperion co-rotating, fully intermeshing twin-screw extruder with 10 temperature control zones, including one at the die. The materials were fed via a gravimetric feeder into the main feed throat in the first barrel and then extruded through a strand die. The strands were water-cooled in a bath to solidify and pelletized in a pelletizer. The resulting compositions are listed in more detail in Tables 1 and 2 below.

[0077] Table 1

[0078]

[0079] Table 2

[0080] Example 1 2 3 4 PPS (copies) 100 100 100 100 Bifunctional polymer (parts) - 5.3 11.2 11.2 Epoxy resin (parts) - - - 0.67 Zinc stearate (parts) - 0.11 0.11 0.11 Lubricant (parts) 0.3 0.32 0.33 0.34 Epoxy content (parts) 0.0 0.42 0.90 1.27-1.33

[0081] After forming, the samples were tested for various physical properties. The results are shown in Table 3 below.

[0082] Table 3

[0083] Example 1 2 3 4 <![CDATA[1,200s -1 Melt viscosity (kP) at 1.2 1.6 2.2 2.5 Tensile modulus (MPa) 3,600 10,200 14,100 15,100 Tensile strength (MPa) 85 72 62 160 Tensile strain at break (%) 2.8 12.0 40.3 41.0 Flexural modulus (MPa) - - 2,800 - Flexural strength (MPa) - - 90 - DTUL at 1.8MPa (℃) - - 100 - <![CDATA[Izod impact strength of simply supported beam at 23℃ (kJ / m 2 )]]> 3 16 40 45 Leakage after thermal shock yes no no no

[0084] Without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention, those skilled in the art will make these and other modifications and variations to the present invention. In addition, it should be understood that aspects of the various embodiments may be interchangeable in whole or in part. Furthermore, those skilled in the art will understand that the foregoing description is by way of example only and is not intended to limit the present invention as further described in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A non-aqueous electrochemical cell comprising: a housing containing an interior space extending to an open end; a positive electrode, a negative electrode, a separator, and an electrolyte disposed within the interior space of the housing; as well as a sealing member disposed adjacent the open end of the housing, wherein the sealing member comprises a polymer composition comprising polyarylene sulfide and a bifunctional polymer containing epoxy functional groups and (meth)acrylate functional groups, wherein the epoxy content of the polymer composition is from about 0.3 parts by weight to about 2 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of polyarylene sulfide in the polymer composition.

2. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The polymer composition exhibits a thermal conductivity of about 6 kJ / m2, measured at a temperature of 23° C. according to ISO 179-1:2010. 2 or greater; a notched Charpy impact strength of about 8,000 MPa or greater as measured at a temperature of 23°C according to ISO 527:2019; and / or a tensile modulus of about 8,000 MPa or greater as measured at a temperature of about 310°C and 1,200s according to ISO 11443:2021. -1 The melt viscosity is about 5 kP or less measured at a shear rate of 1000 rpm.

3. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The polyarylene sulfide comprises from about 60 wt. % to about 99 wt. % of the polymer composition.

4. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The polyarylene sulfide is polyphenylene sulfide, such as linear polyphenylene sulfide.

5. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The difunctional polymer contains monomer units derived from epoxy-functional (meth)acrylates, such as glycidyl acrylate, glycidyl methacrylate, or a combination thereof.

6. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 5, wherein The bifunctional polymer also includes a monomer component derived from an α-olefin, such as ethylene.

7. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 6, wherein The copolymer also contains monomer units derived from non-epoxy-functional (meth)acrylates.

8. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The bifunctional polymer comprises from about 2 parts by weight to about 15 parts by weight per 100 parts by weight of the polyarylene sulfide used in the polymer composition.

9. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The polymer composition is substantially free of reinforcing fibers and / or substantially free of mineral fillers.

10. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The polymer composition further comprises an epoxy resin.

11. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 10, wherein The epoxy resin has an epoxy equivalent weight of about 250 g / g equivalent to about 1,500 g / g equivalent as determined according to ASTM D1652-11e1 (2019).

12. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 10, wherein The epoxy resin contains at least about 1.3 epoxy groups per molecule and / or is a glycidyl ether formed from epichlorohydrin and a hydroxy compound containing at least 1.5 aromatic hydroxy groups.

13. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The electrolyte includes a lithium salt dissolved in a non-aqueous organic solvent.

14. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 1, wherein The positive electrode includes a positive electrode active material optionally disposed on a current collector, and the negative electrode includes a negative electrode active material optionally disposed on a current collector.

15. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 14, wherein The positive electrode active material includes a lithium-containing metal oxide, and / or the negative electrode active material includes lithium or an alloy thereof, a carbonaceous material, or a combination thereof.

16. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell of claim 1, further comprising a cover disposed on the housing.

17. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell according to claim 16, wherein The cover includes the sealing member.

18. The non-aqueous electrochemical cell of claim 16, further comprising a gasket positioned between the housing and the cover, wherein the gasket comprises the sealing member.

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