Secondary battery and method of manufacturing the same

Abstract

A secondary battery and a method of manufacturing the same are disclosed. A secondary battery may include: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; and insulating portions on upper and lower surfaces of the electrode assembly, the insulating portions insulating the case and the electrode assembly from each other.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The embodiments of this disclosure described herein relate to a secondary battery and a method of manufacturing the secondary battery. Background Technology

[0002] Unlike primary batteries, which are not designed to be (re)charged, secondary (or rechargeable) batteries are designed to be discharged and recharged. Low-capacity secondary batteries are used in portable small electronic devices such as smartphones, feature phones, laptops, digital cameras, and camcorders, while high-capacity secondary batteries are widely used as power sources to drive motors in hybrid and electric vehicles and for storing electricity (e.g., household and / or utility-scale power storage). A secondary battery typically includes an electrode assembly containing positive and negative electrodes, a housing that houses the electrode assembly, and electrode terminals connected to the electrode assembly.

[0003] The housing containing the electrode assembly can be made of a metal material such as aluminum. In this case, the electrode plate located at the outermost edge of the electrode assembly may come into contact with the metal housing, potentially causing an internal short circuit. This internal short circuit can lead to corrosion of the electrode plate.

[0004] The information disclosed in this background section is intended to enhance the understanding of the background art of this disclosure, and therefore may contain information that does not constitute related (or prior art). Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by this disclosure may include a secondary battery capable of insulating between the electrode assembly and the housing, and a method for manufacturing the secondary battery.

[0006] The technical problems to be solved by this disclosure are not limited to those mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned herein will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art through the following description.

[0007] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a secondary battery may include: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator; a housing housing the electrode assembly; and an insulating portion on (e.g., provided on) an upper surface and a lower surface of the electrode assembly, the insulating portion insulating the housing from the electrode assembly.

[0008] In some embodiments, the electrode assembly may include: a central electrode portion including alternatingly stacked first electrodes, diaphragms, and second electrodes; and a pair of outer electrode portions, on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion, wherein the insulating portion may be (e.g., provided on) the opposite surface of the outer electrode portions facing the central electrode portion.

[0009] In some embodiments, each of the pair of external electrode portions may include: a substrate having electrode tabs protruding outward from one side; and an active material layer on at least a portion of a region on one surface of the substrate other than (e.g., excluding) the electrode tabs, wherein the insulating portion may be on at least a portion of a region on another surface of the substrate other than (e.g., excluding) the electrode tabs.

[0010] In some embodiments, the insulating portion includes insulating material stacked on the external electrode portion or an insulating film attached to the external electrode portion.

[0011] In some embodiments, each of the pair of external electrode portions may include: a metal layer including an electrode tab protruding outward from one side; an insulating film layer including an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) and (e.g., formed on) the entire portion of one surface of the metal layer and the electrode tab; an active material layer on (e.g., formed on) the opposite surface of the one surface of the metal layer; and an electrode tab metal layer only (e.g., formed only on) the area of ​​the insulating film layer opposite to the metal layer corresponding to the electrode tab, wherein the area of ​​the surface of the insulating film layer where the electrode tab metal layer is not positioned is the insulating portion.

[0012] In some embodiments, the housing may include: a housing body having an opening on one side and receiving the electrode assembly; and a housing cover coupled to the side of the housing body having the opening, wherein the secondary battery may further include (e.g., formed on) the inner surface of at least one of the housing body and the housing cover, an auxiliary insulating portion.

[0013] According to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure, a method of manufacturing a secondary battery may include: forming a central electrode portion by alternately stacking a first electrode, a separator, and a second electrode; forming a pair of outer electrode portions having insulating portions; stacking the pair of outer electrode portions respectively on an upper surface and a lower surface of the central electrode portion such that the insulating portions may be (e.g., provided on) the opposite surface of the outer electrode portions facing the central electrode portion to form an electrode assembly; and housing the electrode assembly in a housing.

[0014] In some embodiments, forming the pair of external electrode portions having the insulating portion may include: forming the insulating portion by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to a surface of a substrate comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom); forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer in a region on another surface of the substrate corresponding to the region where the insulating portion may be formed; forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; and forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

[0015] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate, such that the electrode tabs may be formed in (e.g., in) regions where the insulating portion and the active material layer may not be formed.

[0016] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may further include stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate while the first external electrode portion can be stacked on the electrode assembly, such that the electrode terminals of the first electrode plate and the electrode terminals of the second electrode plate formed during the stamping of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate can face each other.

[0017] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include: forming the first external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate having a surface on which the insulating portion can be formed; and forming the second external electrode portion by stamping the second electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer can be formed.

[0018] In some embodiments, forming the pair of external electrode portions having the insulating portion may include: forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer on a surface of a substrate comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom); forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; forming a first external electrode portion and a second external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate; and forming the insulating portion by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to a surface of the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion where the active material layer may not be formed.

[0019] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate such that the electrode tabs may be formed in (e.g., in) regions where the active material layer may not be formed.

[0020] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include: forming the first external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate having a surface thereon on which the active material layer may not be formed; and forming the second external electrode portion by stamping the second electrode plate having a surface thereon on which the active material layer may be formed.

[0021] In some embodiments, forming the pair of external electrode portions having insulating portions may include: forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer on one surface of a substrate comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom); forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; forming the insulating portion by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to an area on the other surface of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate corresponding to the area where the active material layer may be formed; and forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

[0022] In some embodiments, forming the pair of outer electrode portions having the insulating portion may include: forming an electrode tab metal layer by applying a metal material to a region on opposite ends of an insulating film layer comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom); forming a metal layer by applying the metal material to the entire other surface of the insulating film layer; forming an electrode plate by applying an active material to at least a portion of the region of the metal layer other than the region where the electrode tab metal layer may be formed (e.g., excluding the region where the electrode tab metal layer may be formed); forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; and forming a first outer electrode portion and a second outer electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

[0023] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate such that the electrode tabs may be formed in (e.g., in) regions where the active material layer may not be formed.

[0024] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include stamping the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate while the first external electrode portion can be stacked on the electrode assembly, such that the electrode terminals of the first electrode plate and the electrode terminals of the second electrode plate formed during the stamping of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate can face each other.

[0025] In some embodiments, forming the first external electrode portion and the second external electrode portion may include: forming the first external electrode portion by stamping the first electrode plate having a surface on which the electrode terminal metal layer can be formed; and forming the second external electrode portion by stamping the second electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer can be formed.

[0026] In some embodiments, the housing may include: a housing body having an opening on one side and receiving the electrode assembly; and a housing cover coupled to the side of the housing body having the opening, the method may further include forming an auxiliary insulating portion on the inner surface of at least one of the housing body and the housing cover.

[0027] According to some embodiments of this disclosure, the insulating portion may be (e.g., provided on) the opposite surface of the electrode assembly to prevent short circuits between the housing and the electrode assembly.

[0028] However, the aspects and features of this disclosure are not limited to those described above, and other aspects and features not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the detailed description described below. Attached Figure Description

[0029] The following accompanying drawings illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the detailed description of the present disclosure, further describe aspects and features of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure should not be construed as limited to the drawings:

[0030] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0031] Figure 2 Examples show along Figure 1 The example cross-sectional view is taken from line AA.

[0032] Figure 3 A cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an electrode assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0033] Figure 4 An exploded perspective view illustrating another example of a casing in a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0034] Figure 5 Examples show along Figure 4 The example cross-sectional view of line BB.

[0035] Figure 6 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially.

[0036] Figure 7 Sequentially illustrated Figure 6 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0037] Figure 8 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially.

[0038] Figure 9 Sequentially illustrated Figure 8 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0039] Figure 10 Sequentially illustrated Figure 8 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0040] Figure 11 Sequentially illustrated Figure 8 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0041] Figure 12 Sequentially illustrated Figure 8 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0042] Figure 13 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially.

[0043] Figure 14 Sequentially illustrated Figure 13 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are then provided.

[0044] Figure 15 The flowchart illustrates an example of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0045] Figure 16 The flowchart illustrates an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0046] Figure 17 The flowchart illustrates an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0047] Figure 18 The flowchart illustrates an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0048] Figure 19This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0049] In the following, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. The terms or words used in this specification and claims should not be construed as having a general or dictionary meaning, but should be interpreted as being consistent with the technical spirit of the present disclosure, based on the principle that the inventor is capable of being his / her own lexicographer in appropriately defining the terms and concepts to best describe his / her invention.

[0050] The embodiments described in this specification and the configurations shown in the accompanying drawings are merely some of the embodiments of this disclosure and do not represent all the technical spirit, aspects, and features of this disclosure. Therefore, it should be understood that various equivalents and modifications may exist that can replace or modify the embodiments described herein at the time of filing this application.

[0051] It will be understood that when a component or layer is referred to as being "on" another component or layer, "connected to," or "attached to" another component or layer, it can be directly on, connected to, or attached to the other component or layer, or one or more intermediate components or layers may exist. When a component or layer is referred to as being "directly on" another component or layer, "directly connected to," or "directly attached to" another component or layer, no intermediate components or layers exist. For example, when a first component is described as being "attached" or "connected" to a second component, the first component can be directly attached to or connected to the second component, or the first component can be indirectly attached to or connected to the second component via one or more intermediate components.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings, the dimensions of various elements, layers, etc., may be enlarged for clarity of illustration. The same reference numerals indicate the same elements. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more associated listed items. Furthermore, the use of "may" in describing embodiments of this disclosure refers to "one or more embodiments of this disclosure." Expressions such as "at least one of..." and "any one of..." preceding / following the list of elements modify the entire list of elements, but not individual elements in the list. When phrases such as "at least one of A, B, and C," "at least one of A, B, or C," "at least one selected from the group of A, B, and C," or "at least one selected from A, B, and C" are used to specify a list of elements A, B, and C, the phrase may refer to any and all suitable combinations or subsets of A, B, and C, such as A, B, C, A and B, A and C, B and C, or A and B and C. As used herein, the term "use" may be considered synonymous with the term "utilize." As used herein, the terms “roughly,” “about,” and similar terms are used as approximations rather than terms of degree and are intended to account for the inherent variations in measurements or calculations that would be apparent to a person skilled in the art.

[0053] It will be understood that while the terms first, second, third, etc., may be used to describe various elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments, these elements, components, regions, layers, and / or segments should not be limited by these terms. These terms are used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer, or segment from another element, component, region, layer, or segment. Therefore, without departing from the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, the first element, component, region, layer, or segment discussed below may be referred to as the second element, component, region, layer, or segment.

[0054] For ease of description, this document uses spatial relative terms such as “below,” “under,” “down,” “above,” and “up” to describe the relationship between one element or feature and another element or feature as shown in the figure. It will be understood that spatial relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use or operation, in addition to the orientation depicted in the figure. For example, if the device in the figure is flipped, an element described as “below” or “under” other elements or features can be oriented as “above” or “upon” other elements or features. Therefore, the term “below” can encompass both above and below orientations. The device can be positioned in other ways (rotated 90 degrees or in other orientations), and the spatial relative descriptors used herein should be interpreted accordingly.

[0055] The terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing embodiments of this disclosure and is not intended to limit this disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that, as used in this specification, the terms “comprising” and / or “including” specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0056] Furthermore, any numerical ranges disclosed and / or enumerated herein are intended to include all subranges with the same numerical precision contained within the enumerated ranges. For example, the range “1.0 to 10.0” is intended to include all subranges between the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0 (and including both the enumerated minimum value of 1.0 and the enumerated maximum value of 10.0), i.e., a minimum value equal to or greater than 1.0 and a maximum value equal to or less than 10.0, such as 2.4 to 7.6. Any maximum numerical limit enumerated herein is intended to include all lower numerical limits contained therein, and any minimum numerical limit enumerated in this specification is intended to include all higher numerical limits contained therein. Therefore, the applicant reserves the right to amend this specification, including the claims, to expressly enumerate any subranges contained within the scope expressly enumerated herein. All such ranges are intended to be inherently described in this specification such that any modifications made to expressly enumerate any such subranges will comply with the requirements of local patent law.

[0057] Referring to two compared elements, features, etc., as “identical” may mean that they are “substantially identical.” Therefore, the phrase “substantially identical” can include cases with deviations considered low in the art, such as less than 5%. Furthermore, when a parameter is said to be consistent in a given region, this may mean that it is consistent in terms of average value.

[0058] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, each element may be singular or plural.

[0059] Placing any element "above (or below)" or "above (or below)" another element may mean that the arbitrary element can be positioned to contact the upper (or lower) surface of the element, and other elements may also be positioned between the element and any element positioned on (or below) the element.

[0060] Furthermore, it will be understood that when a component is referred to as “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to another component, the components can be directly “connected,” “linked,” or “attached” to each other, or another component can be “between” the components.

[0061] Throughout this specification, unless otherwise stated, when “A and / or B” is used, it means A, B, or A and B. In other words, “and / or” includes any or all combinations of the listed items. Unless otherwise indicated, when “C to D” is used, it means C and below.

[0062] In the secondary batteries according to embodiments of this disclosure, prismatic batteries will be primarily described, but this disclosure can be applied to other types of batteries, such as pouch batteries.

[0063] Figure 1 An exploded perspective view illustrating an example of a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 Examples show along Figure 1 The example cross-sectional view of line AA, and Figure 3 A cross-sectional view illustrating an example of an electrode assembly according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0064] refer to Figures 1 to 3 According to some embodiments of the present disclosure, a secondary battery 100 may include: an electrode assembly 200 including a plurality of first electrodes 211 and a plurality of second electrodes 213; a housing 400 for housing the electrode assembly 200; and an insulating portion 300 provided on an upper and lower surface of the electrode assembly 200 to insulate the housing 400 from the electrode assembly 200. The insulating portion 300 may include an insulating material such as a polymer, resin, and / or rubber (e.g., which may be formed therefrom), the insulating material being a high molecular weight compound through which electricity cannot be transmitted.

[0065] The housing 400 forms the overall appearance of the secondary battery. According to some embodiments, the housing 400 may include stainless steel (SUS) (e.g., it may be formed from there). In one or more embodiments, the housing 400 may include a conductive metal such as aluminum, an aluminum alloy, or nickel-plated steel (e.g., it may be formed from there). Furthermore, the housing 400 may provide space therein for accommodating the electrode assembly 200.

[0066] According to some embodiments, the housing 400 may include: a housing body 410 having an open side and an electrode assembly receiving groove 411 formed therein to accommodate an electrode assembly 200; and a housing cover 420 that can be fastened to the open side of the housing body 410 to seal the open side of the housing body 410. In one or more embodiments, when the housing body 410 is fastened to the housing cover 420, the side of the housing body 410 having the electrode assembly receiving groove 411 may face the housing cover 420.

[0067] The housing body 410 and the housing cover 420 can be joined by welding. In some embodiments, a flange region can be formed at the edge of the housing body 410, and the portion where the flange region and the housing cover 420 contact each other can be sealed by welding or the like, and then the flange region can be removed to join the housing body 410 to the housing cover 420.

[0068] The housing 400 may include a first electrode terminal 412 on one side, a second electrode terminal 413 spaced apart from the first electrode terminal 412, and a through hole 414. The first electrode terminal 412 and the second electrode terminal 413 may be electrically connected to and in contact with a first electrode contact 211a and a second electrode contact 213a provided in the electrode assembly 200, respectively. The through hole 414 may serve as a channel for relatively smooth impregnation of the electrolyte injected into the housing 400. The through hole 414 may be formed between the first electrode terminal 412 and the second electrode terminal 413, but this disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0069] Electrode assembly 200 can be formed by alternately stacking a plurality of first electrodes, diaphragms, and second electrodes that are formed in the shape of a sheet or a film. In electrode assembly 200, the first electrode can be used as a negative electrode, and the second electrode can be used as a positive electrode. In one or more embodiments, the reverse is also possible. For example, the first electrode can be used as a positive electrode, and the second electrode can be used as a negative electrode.

[0070] refer to Figure 3 According to some embodiments, the electrode assembly 200 may include: a central electrode portion 210, wherein a first electrode 211, a diaphragm 215, and a second electrode 213 may be alternately stacked; and a pair of outer electrode portions 220 on the upper and lower surfaces (e.g., opposite surfaces of the central electrode portion 210). For example, the central electrode portion 210 may include alternately stacked first electrodes 211, diaphragms 215, and second electrodes 213. An insulating portion 300 may be provided on the opposite surface of the outer electrode portion 220 to a surface facing the central electrode portion 210. The insulating portion 300 may be provided on the outermost upper and lower surfaces of the electrode assembly 200, and may be located between the housing 400 and the electrode assembly 200 if the electrode assembly 200 may be housed within the housing 400, thereby insulating the housing 400 and the electrode assembly 200 from each other.

[0071] The first electrode plate 211 can be formed by coating a first electrode active material 212, such as graphite or carbon, onto a first electrode current collector formed of a metal foil such as copper, a copper alloy, nickel, or a nickel alloy. The first electrode plate 211 may include a first electrode tab 211a (e.g., a first uncoated portion) that may serve as a region where the first electrode active material 212 may not be coated. The first electrode tab 211a can serve as a current flow path between the first electrode plate 211 and the first current collector. In some embodiments, when the first electrode plate 211 can be manufactured, the first electrode tab 211a can be formed by pre-cutting it to protrude to one side of the electrode assembly 200, or the first electrode tab 211a can protrude to one side of the electrode assembly 200 more than (e.g., further or beyond) the diaphragm 215 without being separately cut. The first electrode tab 211a can serve as a channel for current flow between the first electrode plate 211 and the first electrode terminal 412 formed on the housing body 410.

[0072] The second electrode plate 213 can be formed by coating a second electrode active material 214, such as a transition metal oxide, onto a second electrode current collector formed of a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy. The second electrode plate 213 may include a second electrode tab 213a (e.g., a second uncoated portion) that can serve as a region where the second electrode active material 214 may not be coated. The second electrode tab 213a can serve as a current flow path between the second electrode plate 213 and the second current collector. In some embodiments, when the second electrode plate 213 can be manufactured, the second electrode tab 213a can be formed by being pre-cut to protrude to the other side (e.g., the opposite side) of the electrode assembly 200, or the second electrode tab 213a can protrude to the other side of the electrode assembly 200 more than (e.g., further or beyond) the diaphragm 215 without being separately cut. The second electrode tab 213a can serve as a channel for current flow between the second electrode plate 213 and the second electrode terminals 413 formed on the housing body 410.

[0073] The first electrode terminal piece 211a of the first electrode plate 211 and the second electrode terminal piece 213a of the second electrode plate 213 can be located at opposite ends (e.g., opposite ends) of the electrode assembly 200. In some embodiments, the electrode assembly 200 can be housed together with the electrolyte in the housing 400. Furthermore, in the electrode assembly 200, the first current collector and the second current collector can be welded and connected to the first electrode terminal piece 211a of the first electrode plate 211 and the second electrode terminal piece 213a of the second electrode plate 213 exposed on both sides, and then positioned there, respectively. The first electrode terminal piece 211a and the second electrode terminal piece 213a can be electrically connected to and in contact with the first electrode terminal 412 and the second electrode terminal 413 provided in the housing 400, and the electrode assembly 200 can be housed in the housing 400. In one or more embodiments, in Figure 1 In the process, the first electrode terminal 211a and the second electrode terminal 213a can be configured (e.g., can be formed) to protrude in the same direction, but the first electrode terminal 211a and the second electrode terminal 213a can be configured (e.g., can be formed) to protrude in different directions.

[0074] The diaphragm 215 prevents short circuits between the first electrode 211 and the second electrode 213 while allowing lithium ions to move between them. The diaphragm 215 can be made of, for example, a polyethylene membrane, a polypropylene membrane, or a polyethylene-polypropylene membrane.

[0075] The external electrode portion 220 may include: a substrate 221 comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom) and having electrode tabs 222 configured (e.g., formed to) protrude outward from one side; and an active material layer 223 formed on at least a portion of a region on a surface of the substrate 221 other than the electrode tabs (e.g., excluding the electrode tabs).

[0076] According to some embodiments, the substrate 221 may include an electrode current collector comprising a metal foil (e.g., formed therefrom) such as copper, a copper alloy, nickel, or a nickel alloy. In this case, the active material layer 223 can be formed by coating an active material such as graphite or carbon onto one surface of the substrate 221. The substrate 221 may then form an electrode identical to the first electrode 211, and the electrode terminals 222 of the substrate 221 can be electrically connected to the first electrode terminals 211a, such that the electrode assembly 200 can be electrically connected to and in contact with the first electrode terminal 412 provided in the housing 400 while being housed within the housing 400.

[0077] In one or more embodiments, substrate 221 may include an electrode current collector plate comprising a metal foil such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy (e.g., formed therefrom). In this case, active material layer 223 can be formed by coating an active material such as a transition metal oxide onto one surface of substrate 221. In this case, substrate 221 may form the same electrode as the second electrode 213, and electrode tabs of substrate 221 may be electrically connected to the second electrode tab 213a, such that electrode assembly 200 can be electrically connected to and in contact with the second electrode terminal 413 provided in housing 400 while being housed in housing 400.

[0078] The insulating portion 300 can be provided in at least a portion of a region on another surface of the substrate 221 where the active material layer 223 may not be formed, excluding the electrode tabs (e.g., not including the electrode tabs). In this case, the insulating portions 300 can be configured (e.g., formed to) face each other in the same region as the active material layer 223, with the substrate 221 located between the insulating portions 300 and the active material layer 223.

[0079] According to some embodiments, the insulating portion 300 can be stacked by applying an insulating material to the outer electrode portion 220. In one or more embodiments, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by attaching an insulating film manufactured in the form of a film to the outer electrode portion 220. The insulating portion 300 can be configured (e.g., formed to have a thickness of 10 μm to 100 μm) to maintain insulating properties.

[0080] The outer electrode portions 220 can be provided in pairs and can be stacked on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion 210. For this purpose, refer to... Figure 7 The external electrode portion 220 can be manufactured as a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b. An insulating portion 300 can be formed on the upper surface of the first electrode plate 221a, and a first active material layer 223a can be formed on the lower surface of the first electrode plate 221a. Therefore, the first external electrode portion 220a can be stacked on the upper surface of the central electrode portion 210. A second active material layer 223b can be formed on the upper surface of the second electrode plate 221b, and an insulating portion 300 can be formed on the lower surface of the second electrode plate 221b. Therefore, the second external electrode portion 220b can be stacked on the lower surface of the central electrode portion 210. At this time, electrode tabs 222a protruding (e.g., raised) from one side of the first electrode plate 221a and electrode tabs 222b protruding (e.g., raised) from one side of the second electrode plate 221b can be formed in a direction facing each other.

[0081] The electrode terminals 222a of the first electrode plate 221a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second electrode plate 221b may be located above and below the first electrode terminal 211a formed on the first electrode 211 of the central electrode portion 210, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 211a. In one or more embodiments, the electrode terminals 222a of the first electrode plate 221a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second electrode plate 221b may be located above and below the second electrode terminal 213a formed on the second electrode 213, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the second electrode terminal 213a.

[0082] refer to Figure 14 The external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments may include: metal layers 233a, 233b having electrode tabs 232a, 232b protruding outward from one side (e.g., raised); an insulating film layer 231 comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) and formed on the entire portion of one surface of the metal layers 233a, 233b and on the electrode tabs 232a, 232b; active material layers 234a, 234b formed on the opposite surface of one surface of the metal layers 233a, 233b; and electrode tab metal layers 235a, 235b formed only on the areas of the insulating film layer 231 opposite to the metal layers 233a, 233b that correspond to the electrode tabs. An insulating portion 300 may be formed on the surface of the insulating film layer 231 in areas where the electrode tab metal layers 235a, 235b are not formed. In one or more embodiments, the insulating portion 300 may include the area of ​​the insulating film layer 231 excluding the electrode tab metal layers 235a, 235b.

[0083] The external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments can be used as an electrode by applying a metallic material to one surface of an insulating film layer comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) to form a metallic layer and coating an active material layer onto the metallic layer. Because the other surface of the insulating film layer may not have a metallic layer formed thereon, the other surface of the insulating film layer forms an insulating portion.

[0084] The outer electrode portions according to one or more embodiments may also be provided in pairs and may be stacked on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion 210. For example, refer to Figure 14The external electrode portion can be manufactured as a first external electrode portion 230a and a second external electrode portion 230b. The first external electrode portion 230a can be provided with a first metal layer 233a and a first active material layer 234a formed on the lower surface of the first electrode plate 231a, and can be stacked on the upper surface of the central electrode portion 210. The second external electrode portion 230b can be provided with a second metal layer 233b and a second active material layer 234b formed on the upper surface of the second electrode plate 231b, and can be stacked on the lower surface of the central electrode portion 210. At this time, electrode terminals 232a protruding (e.g., raised) from one side of the first metal layer 233a and electrode terminals 232b protruding (e.g., raised) from one side of the second metal layer 233b can be formed in a direction facing each other.

[0085] The electrode terminals 232a of the first metal layer 233a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second metal layer 233b may be located above and below the first electrode terminal 211a formed on the first electrode 211 of the central electrode portion 210, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal 211a. In one or more embodiments, the electrode terminals 232a of the first metal layer 233a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second metal layer 233b may be located above and below the second electrode terminal 213a formed on the second electrode 213, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the second electrode terminal 213a.

[0086] Figure 4 An exploded perspective view illustrating another example of a casing in a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is shown, and Figure 5 Examples show along Figure 4 A cross-sectional view of an example taken from line BB. (Reference) Figure 4 and Figure 5 According to some embodiments, the secondary battery may further include an auxiliary insulating portion 430 formed on the inner surface of at least one of the housing body 410 and the housing cover 420.

[0087] The auxiliary insulating portion 430 may be formed only on the inner surface of the housing body 410 or the inner surface of the housing cover 420. In one or more embodiments, such as Figure 5 As shown, the auxiliary insulating portion 430 may be formed on the inner surface of the housing body 410 and the inner surface of the housing cover 420. The auxiliary insulating portion 430 may include an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) such as a polymer, resin and / or rubber, which may be a high molecular weight compound through which electricity cannot be transmitted.

[0088] The auxiliary insulating portion 430 can contact the insulating portion 300 provided in the electrode assembly 200 while the electrode assembly 200 can be housed in the housing 400, or it can be spaced apart from the insulating portion 300. Therefore, by further providing the auxiliary insulating portion 430, the insulation performance can be further improved.

[0089] Figure 15 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. (See also:) Figure 15 A method for manufacturing a secondary battery according to some embodiments of the present disclosure may include forming a central electrode portion by alternately stacking a plurality of first electrodes, a separator and a second electrode (S100), forming a pair of outer electrode portions having insulating portions (S200), stacking the pair of outer electrode portions on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion respectively to form an electrode assembly (S300), and housing the electrode assembly in a housing (S400).

[0090] Forming a central electrode portion by alternately stacking multiple first electrodes, diaphragms, and second electrodes (S100) may include stacking a diaphragm between the first and second electrodes and stacking the diaphragm on the outermost surface of the first or second electrode. For example, the diaphragm may be on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion, and the first electrode, diaphragm, and second electrode may be sequentially stacked between the upper and lower surfaces.

[0091] The first electrode can be manufactured as a first electrode tab protruding to one side by stamping or cutting an electrode current collector plate comprising a metal foil (e.g., formed from) such as copper, copper alloys, nickel, or nickel alloys. A first active material, such as graphite or carbon, can be applied to the upper and lower surfaces of the first electrode to form a first active material layer. In this case, the first active material may not be applied to the first electrode tab.

[0092] The second electrode can be manufactured as a second electrode tab protruding to one side by stamping or cutting an electrode current collector plate comprising a metal foil, such as aluminum or an aluminum alloy (e.g., formed therefrom). A second active material, such as a transition metal oxide, can be applied to the upper and lower surfaces of the second electrode 213 to form a second active material layer. In this case, the second active material may not be applied to the second electrode tab.

[0093] When a pair of outer electrode portions are stacked on the upper and lower surfaces of the central electrode portion (S300), the insulating portion provided on the outer electrode portion can be stacked on the opposite surface of the outer electrode portion to the surface facing the central electrode portion. Thus, the insulating portion can be on the upper and lower surfaces of the electrode assembly to face the inner surface of the housing, thereby insulating the electrode assembly from the housing.

[0094] When forming a pair of external electrode portions having insulating parts (S200), a pair of external electrode portions can be manufactured in one or more embodiments. The various embodiments will now be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0095] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially, and Figure 16 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. References Figure 6 , Figure 7 and Figure 16 The formation of the external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments (S210) may include: forming an insulating portion 300 on one surface of a substrate 221 comprising a metal material (e.g., formed therefrom) (S211); forming an electrode plate by applying an active material to the region corresponding to the region on the other surface of the substrate 221 where the insulating portion 300 may be formed (S212); forming a first electrode plate 221a and a second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S213); and forming a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214).

[0096] Forming an insulating portion 300 (S211) on a surface of a substrate 221 comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom) may include forming the insulating portion 300 by applying an insulating material 310 to a surface of the substrate 221. In one or more embodiments, an insulating film 320 comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) may be attached to the substrate 221 to form the insulating portion 300.

[0097] When forming an insulating portion 300 (S211) on one surface of a substrate 221 comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom) and forming an active material layer 223 by applying an active material to the other surface of the substrate 221 in a region corresponding to the region where the insulating portion 300 can be formed, thus forming an electrode plate (S212), the insulating portion 300 and the active material layer 233 can be formed in the central region of the substrate 221, such that a region at the opposite end of the substrate 221 can be exposed to the outside. Thus, the ends on the opposite sides of the substrate 221 where the insulating portion 300 and the active material layer 223 may not be formed become regions where electrode terminals can be formed by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214).

[0098] refer to Figure 7 The formation of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S213) may include forming the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the center of the electrode plate in a direction parallel to the opposite sides of the electrode plate, where the insulating portion 300 and the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0099] Forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214) may include stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b, such that the electrode terminal piece can be formed in a region where the insulating portion 300 and the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0100] When forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214), while a pair of external electrode portions 220a and 220b can be stacked on the electrode assembly, the stamping of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be performed, so that the electrode terminals 222a of the first electrode plate 221a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second electrode plate 221b formed during the stamping of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can face each other.

[0101] For example, refer to Figure 7The formation of the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214) may include forming the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which an insulating portion 300 can be formed, and forming the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which a second active material layer 223b can be formed. The formation of the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping a first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which an insulating portion 300 can be formed, and the formation of the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping a second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which a second active material layer 223b can be formed, can be performed simultaneously, or the formation of the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which an insulating portion 300 can be formed can be performed after the formation of the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which a second active material layer 223b can be formed.

[0102] In one or more embodiments, the first outer electrode portion 220a and the second outer electrode portion 220b can be manufactured simultaneously by a single stamping while the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be stacked, instead of separately forming the first outer electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which an insulating portion 300 can be formed, and forming the second outer electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which a second active material layer 223b can be formed. In this case, the insulating portion 300 formed on the first electrode plate 221a and the insulating portion 300 formed on the second electrode plate 221b can be stamped while being stacked facing each other.

[0103] Thus, the insulating portion 300 can be formed on the upper surface of the first electrode plate 221a, and the first active material layer 223a can be formed on the lower surface of the first electrode plate 221a. Therefore, the first external electrode portion 220a, formed by forming the external electrode portion (S210) according to one or more embodiments, can be stacked on the upper surface of the central electrode portion. The second active material layer 223b can be formed on the upper surface of the second electrode plate 221b, and the insulating portion 300 can be formed on the lower surface of the second electrode plate 221b. Therefore, the second external electrode portion 220b can be stacked on the lower surface of the central electrode portion. At this time, the electrode terminals 222a of the first external electrode portion 220a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second external electrode portion 220b can face each other.

[0104] The electrode terminals 222a of the first external electrode portion 220a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second external electrode portion 220b may be located above and below the first electrode terminal formed on the first electrode of the central electrode portion, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the first electrode terminal. In one or more embodiments, the electrode terminals 222a of the first external electrode portion 220a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second external electrode portion 220b may be located above and below the second electrode terminal formed on the second electrode, and may be electrically connected to the second electrode terminal.

[0105] Figures 8 to 10 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially, and Figure 17 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. (See also:) Figures 8 to 10 and Figure 17 The formation of the external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments (S220) may include: forming an electrode plate (S221) by applying an active material to a surface of a substrate 221 including a metal material (e.g., formed therefrom) to form an active material layer 223; forming a first electrode plate 221a and a second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S222); forming a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S223); and forming an insulating portion 300 on a surface of the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b where the active material layer 223 may not be formed (S224).

[0106] Forming an electrode plate by applying an active material to one surface of a substrate 221 comprising a metallic material (e.g., formed therefrom) to form an active material layer 223 can include forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer 223 in the central region of the substrate 221 such that a region on opposite ends of the substrate 221 is exposed to the outside. Thus, the ends on opposite sides of the substrate 221 where the active material layer 223 may not be formed become areas where electrode terminals can be formed by stamping a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b (S223).

[0107] refer to Figure 9 The formation of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S222) may include forming the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the center of the electrode plate in a direction parallel to the ends of the electrode plates on opposite sides where the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0108] Forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S223) may include stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b, so that the electrode terminal piece can be formed in a region where the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0109] When forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S223), while a pair of external electrode portions 220a and 220b can be stacked on the electrode assembly, the stamping of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be performed, so that the electrode terminals 222a of the first electrode plate 221a and the electrode terminals 222b of the second electrode plate 221b formed during the stamping of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can face each other.

[0110] For example, refer to Figure 9 The formation of the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S223) may include forming the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which the active material layer 223 may not be formed, and forming the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which the second active material layer 223b may be formed. The formation of the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping a first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which the active material layer 223 may not be formed, and the formation of the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping a second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which the second active material layer 223b may be formed, can be performed together (e.g., simultaneously), or the formation of the first external electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which the active material layer 223 may not be formed can be performed after the formation of the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which the second active material layer 223b may be formed.

[0111] In one or more embodiments, the first outer electrode portion 220a and the second outer electrode portion 220b can be manufactured simultaneously by a single stamping while the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be stacked, instead of separately forming the first outer electrode portion 220a by stamping the first electrode plate 221a having a surface on which the active material layer 223 can not be formed, and forming the second outer electrode portion 220b by stamping the second electrode plate 221b having a surface on which the second active material layer 223b can be formed. In this case, the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be stamped in a stacked state such that the surfaces on which the active material layer can not be formed face each other. For example, the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b can be stamped in a stacked state such that the surfaces not containing the active material can face each other.

[0112] Forming an insulating portion 300 on one surface of the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b where the active material layer 223 may not be formed (S224) may include forming an insulating portion 300 on one surface of the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b where the active material layer 223 may not be formed. The first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b are formed by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S223).

[0113] like Figure 9 As shown, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by applying insulating material 310 to one surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b. In this case, the insulating material 310 may not be applied to the electrode terminals.

[0114] In one or more embodiments, such as Figure 10 As shown, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by attaching an insulating film 320, which includes an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom), to one surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b. In this case, the insulating film 320 may not be attached to the electrode terminals.

[0115] Figure 8 , Figure 11 and Figure 12 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially, and Figure 18 A flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is provided. (See also:) Figure 8 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 and Figure 18The formation of the external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments (S230) may include: forming an electrode plate by applying an active material to one surface of a substrate 221 including a metal material (e.g., formed therefrom) to form an active material layer 223 (S231); forming a first electrode plate 221a and a second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S232); forming an insulating portion 300 in the region corresponding to the region on the other surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b where the active material layer 223 may be formed (S233); and forming a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S234).

[0116] Forming an electrode plate by applying an active material to one surface of a substrate 221, including a metal material (e.g., formed therefrom), to form an active material layer 223 (S231) may include forming the active material layer 223 in a central region of the substrate 221, such that a region on opposite ends of the substrate 221 can be exposed to the outside. Thus, the ends on opposite sides of the substrate 221 where the active material layer 223 may not be formed become regions where electrode terminals can be formed by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b to form a first external electrode portion 220a and a second external electrode portion 220b (S234).

[0117] refer to Figure 11 Forming the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the electrode plate (S232) may include forming the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b by cutting the center of the electrode plate in a direction parallel to the ends of the electrode plates on opposite sides where the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0118] Forming an insulating portion 300 in the region corresponding to the region where the active material layer 223 can be formed on the other surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S233) may include forming an insulating portion 300 on the other surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b where the active material layer 223 may not be formed. The first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b are formed by cutting the electrode plates (S232).

[0119] like Figure 11As shown, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by applying insulating material 310 to the other surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b. Alternatively, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by applying insulating material 310 to the region corresponding to the region where the active material layer 223 can be formed. The regions of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b where the active material layer 223 and the insulating portion 300 may not be formed can be regions where electrode terminals can be formed.

[0120] In one or more embodiments, such as Figure 12 As shown, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by attaching an insulating film 320, including an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom), to the other surface of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b. In this case, the insulating portion 300 can be formed by attaching the insulating film 320 only to the region corresponding to the region where the active material layer 223 can be formed. The regions of the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b where the active material layer 223 and the insulating portion 300 may not be formed can be regions where electrode terminals can be formed.

[0121] Forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S234) may include stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b, thereby allowing the electrode contacts to be formed in areas where the insulating portion 300 and the active material layer 223 may not be formed. Forming the first external electrode portion 220a and the second external electrode portion 220b in this way by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S234) can be in accordance with the above reference. Figure 7 The formation of the outer electrode portion (S210) in one or more embodiments described is performed in the same manner as forming the first outer electrode portion 220a and the second outer electrode portion 220b by stamping the first electrode plate 221a and the second electrode plate 221b (S214).

[0122] Figure 13 and Figure 14 Examples of forming external electrode portions according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure are illustrated sequentially, and Figure 19 This is a flowchart illustrating an example of a method for manufacturing an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Reference Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 19The formation of the external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments (S240) may include: forming an electrode tab metal layer 235 by applying a metal material to a region on opposite ends of an insulating film layer 231 comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) to form an electrode plate (S241); forming a metal layer 233 by applying a metal material to the entire other surface of the insulating film layer 231; forming an active material layer by applying an active material to at least a portion of the region of the metal layer 233 other than the region that may form the electrode tab metal layer 235 to form an active material layer (S234); forming a first electrode plate 231a and a second electrode plate 231b by cutting the electrode plate (S244); and forming a first external electrode portion 230a and a second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b (S245).

[0123] Forming the electrode tab metal layer 235 by applying a metallic material to a region on opposite ends of one surface of an insulating film layer 231 comprising an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) can include applying the metallic material to a region on opposite ends of one surface of the insulating film layer 231, such that the metallic material can be applied to regions in the insulating film layer 231 formed of an insulating material where electrode tabs can be formed. Regions on one surface of the insulating film layer 231 where the electrode tab metal layer 235 may not be formed can correspond to the insulating portion 300.

[0124] Forming the metal layer 233 by applying a metal material to the entire other surface of the insulating film layer 231 (S242) may include forming the metal layer 233 by applying a metal material to the entire other surface of the insulating film layer 231. For example, forming an external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments (S240) may include forming the metal layer 233 on the entire other surface of the insulating film layer 231 to serve as an electrode and includes coating an active material layer on the metal layer 233, since the insulating film layer 231, which comprises an insulating material (e.g., formed therefrom) rather than a metal material, may be a substrate layer.

[0125] Forming an electrode plate by applying an active material layer to at least a portion of the region of metal layer 233 other than (e.g., excluding) the region corresponding to the region where electrode tabs can be formed (e.g., forming the region where electrode tabs can be formed) can include forming an electrode plate by applying an active material layer to at least a portion of the region of metal layer 233 other than (e.g., excluding) the region corresponding to the region where electrode tabs can be formed (e.g., forming the region where electrode tabs can be formed). Because the active material layer should not be formed on the electrode tabs, the active material layer 223 can be formed in the region other than (e.g., excluding) the region corresponding to the region where metal layer 233 can be formed (e.g., forming the region where metal layer 233 can be formed).

[0126] refer to Figure 14 Forming the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b by cutting the electrode plate (S244) may include forming the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b by cutting the center of the electrode plate in a direction parallel to the electrode terminal metal layer 235 in the electrode plate.

[0127] Forming the first external electrode portion 230a and the second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b (S245) may include stamping the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b, so that the electrode terminal piece can be formed in a region where the active material layer 223 may not be formed.

[0128] When forming the first outer electrode portion 230a and the second outer electrode portion 230b by stamping the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b (S245), while a pair of outer electrode portions 230a, 230b can be stacked on the electrode assembly, the stamping of the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b can be performed, such that the electrode terminals 232a of the first electrode plate 231a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second electrode plate 231b formed during the stamping of the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b can be configured to face each other.

[0129] For example, refer to Figure 14The formation of the first external electrode portion 230a and the second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b (S245) may include forming the first external electrode portion 230a by stamping the first electrode plate 231a having a surface on which an electrode terminal metal layer 235 can be formed, and forming the second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the second electrode plate 231b having a surface on which an active material layer 234b can be formed. The formation of a first external electrode portion 230a by stamping a first electrode plate 231a having a surface on which an electrode terminal metal layer 235 can be formed, and the formation of a second external electrode portion 230b by stamping a second electrode plate 231b having a surface on which an active material layer 234b can be formed, can be performed simultaneously, or the formation of the first external electrode portion 230a by stamping the first electrode plate 231a having a surface on which an electrode terminal metal layer 235 can be formed can be performed after the formation of the second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the second electrode plate 231b having a surface on which an active material layer 234b can be formed.

[0130] In one or more embodiments, the first external electrode portion 230a and the second external electrode portion 230b can be manufactured simultaneously by a single stamping while the first electrode plate 231a and the second electrode plate 231b can be stacked, instead of separately forming the first external electrode portion 230a by stamping the first electrode plate 231a having a surface on which an electrode tab metal layer 235 can be formed, and forming the second external electrode portion 230b by stamping the second electrode plate 231b having a surface on which an active material layer 234b can be formed. In this case, the insulating portion 300 of the first electrode plate 231a and the insulating portion 300 of the second electrode plate 231b can be stamped while they are stacked facing each other.

[0131] Thus, the insulating portion 300 can be formed on the upper surface of the first metal layer 233a, and the first active material layer 234a can be formed on the lower surface of the first metal layer 233a. Therefore, the first external electrode portion 230a (S240) formed by forming the external electrode portion according to one or more embodiments can be stacked on the upper surface of the central electrode portion. The second active material layer 234b can be formed on the upper surface of the second metal layer 233b, and the insulating portion 300 can be formed on the lower surface of the second metal layer 233b. Therefore, the second external electrode portion 230b can be stacked on the lower surface of the central electrode portion. At this time, the electrode terminals 232a of the first external electrode portion 230a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second external electrode portion 230b can face each other.

[0132] The electrode terminals 232a of the first external electrode portion 230a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second external electrode portion 230b may be located above and below the first electrode terminals formed on the first electrode of the central electrode portion, respectively, and may be electrically connected to the first electrode terminals. In one or more embodiments, the electrode terminals 232a of the first external electrode portion 230a and the electrode terminals 232b of the second external electrode portion 230b may be located above and below the second electrode terminals formed on the second electrode, and may be electrically connected to the second electrode terminals.

[0133] refer to Figure 5 The method of manufacturing a secondary battery according to some embodiments may further include forming an auxiliary insulating portion by forming an auxiliary insulating portion 430 on the inner surface of at least one of the housing body 410 and the housing cover 420.

[0134] Forming the auxiliary insulation portion may include forming the auxiliary insulation portion 430 by applying an insulating material to the inner surface of the housing body 410 and the inner surface of the housing cover 420, or by attaching an insulating film formed of an insulating material thereto. The auxiliary insulation portion 430 may include an insulating material such as a polymer, resin, and / or rubber (e.g., which may be formed therefrom), which may be a high molecular weight compound through which electricity cannot be transmitted.

[0135] In this disclosure, the first active material, the second active material, and the active material can be either a positive electrode active material or a negative electrode active material.

[0136] As the positive electrode active material, compounds capable of reversibly inserting / deintercalating lithium (e.g., lithiated intercalation compounds) can be used. For example, at least one of the composite oxides of lithium with a metal selected from cobalt, manganese, nickel, and combinations thereof can be used.

[0137] The composite oxide can be a lithium transition metal composite oxide, and examples of it can include lithium nickel oxides, lithium cobalt oxides, lithium manganese oxides, lithium iron phosphate compounds, cobalt-free nickel manganese oxides, or combinations thereof.

[0138] As an example, a compound represented by any of the following molecular formulas can be used: Li a A 1-b X b O 2-c D c (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Mn 2-b X b O 4-c D c(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.05); Li a Ni 1-b-c Co b X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni 1-b- c Mn b X c O 2-α D α (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.5, 0≤c≤0.5, 0<α<2); Li a Ni b Co c L 1 d G e O2 (0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤b≤0.9, 0≤c≤0.5, 0≤d≤0.5, 0≤e≤0.1); Li a NiG b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a CoG b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-b G b O2(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn2G b O4(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0.001≤b≤0.1); Li a Mn 1-g G g PO4(0.90≤a≤1.8, 0≤g≤0.5); Li (3-f) Fe2(PO4)3 (0≤f≤2); and Li a FePO4 (0.90≤a≤1.8).

[0139] In the above molecular formulas, A is Ni, Co, Mn, or a combination thereof; X is Al, Ni, Co, Mn, Cr, Fe, Mg, Sr, V, rare earth elements, or a combination thereof; D is O, F, S, P, or a combination thereof; G is Al, Cr, Mn, Fe, Mg, La, Ce, Sr, V, or a combination thereof; and L 1 It is Mn, Al, or a combination thereof.

[0140] The positive electrode for a lithium secondary battery may include a positive electrode current collector and a positive electrode active material layer formed on the positive electrode current collector. The positive electrode active material layer may include a positive electrode active material and may further include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0141] Based on 100 wt% of the positive electrode active material layer, the content of the positive electrode active material may be in the range of about 90 wt% to about 99.5 wt%, and based on 100 wt% of the positive electrode active material layer, the contents of the binder and the conductive material are respectively in the range of about 0.5 wt% to about 5 wt%.

[0142] The positive electrode current collector may be an aluminum (Al) foil, but is not limited thereto.

[0143] The negative electrode active material may include a material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions, lithium metal, a lithium metal alloy, a material capable of doping and dedoping lithium, or a transition metal oxide.

[0144] The material capable of reversibly intercalating / deintercalating lithium ions may be a carbon-based negative electrode active material, which may include, for example, crystalline carbon, amorphous carbon, or a combination thereof. Examples of crystalline carbon may include graphite such as natural graphite or artificial graphite, and examples of amorphous carbon may include soft carbon, hard carbon, pitch carbide, mesophase pitch carbide, sintered coke, etc.

[0145] Si-based negative electrode active materials or Sn-based negative electrode active materials may be used as materials capable of doping and dedoping lithium. The Si-based negative electrode active material may be silicon, a silicon-carbon composite, SiO x (0 < x ≤ 2), a Si-based alloy, or a combination thereof.

[0146] The silicon-carbon composite may be a composite of silicon and amorphous carbon. According to one embodiment, the silicon-carbon composite may be in the form of silicon particles and amorphous carbon coated on the surface of the silicon particles.

[0147] The silicon-carbon composite may further include crystalline carbon. For example, the silicon-carbon composite may include a core containing crystalline carbon and silicon particles and an amorphous carbon coating on the surface of the core.

[0148] The negative electrode for a lithium secondary battery may include a negative electrode current collector and a negative electrode active material layer provided on the negative electrode current collector. The negative electrode active material layer may include a negative electrode active material and may further include a binder and / or a conductive material.

[0149] For example, the negative electrode active material layer may include about 90 wt% to about 99 wt% of the negative electrode active material, about 0.5 wt% to about 5 wt% of the binder, and about 0 wt% to about 5 wt% of the conductive material.

[0150] Non-aqueous binders, aqueous binders, dry binders, or combinations thereof can be used as binders. When an aqueous binder is used as the negative electrode binder, it may further include a cellulose-based compound capable of imparting viscosity.

[0151] As the negative electrode current collector, one can be selected from copper foil, nickel foil, stainless steel foil, titanium foil, nickel foam, copper foam, polymer substrate coated with conductive metal, and combinations thereof.

[0152] Electrolytes used in lithium secondary batteries may include non-aqueous organic solvents and lithium salts.

[0153] Non-aqueous organic solvents serve as a medium through which ions participating in the electrochemical reactions of the battery can move.

[0154] Non-aqueous organic solvents can be carbonate solvents, ester solvents, ether solvents, ketone solvents, alcohol solvents, and aprotic solvents, and can be used alone or in combination of two or more.

[0155] In addition, when using carbonate solvents, a mixture of cyclic carbonates and chain carbonates can be used.

[0156] Depending on the type of lithium-ion secondary battery, a separator can be present between the first electrode plate (e.g., the negative electrode) and the second electrode plate (e.g., the positive electrode). Polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinylidene fluoride, or multilayer films of two or more layers thereof can be used as the separator.

[0157] The diaphragm may include a porous substrate and a coating on one or both surfaces of the porous substrate, comprising organic materials, inorganic materials, or combinations thereof.

[0158] Organic materials may include polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) polymers or (meth)acrylic acid polymers.

[0159] Inorganic materials may include, but are not limited to, inorganic particles selected from Al2O3, SiO2, TiO2, SnO2, CeO2, MgO, NiO, CaO, GaO, ZnO, ZrO2, Y2O3, SrTiO3, BaTiO3, Mg(OH)2, boehmite and combinations thereof.

[0160] Organic and inorganic materials can be mixed in a coating, or they can be in the form of a coating containing organic materials and a coating containing inorganic materials (the two coatings are layered on top of each other).

[0161] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments and aspects thereof, this disclosure is not limited thereto. Various modifications and variations can be made by those skilled in the art within the spirit and scope of this disclosure, the claims, and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A secondary battery comprising: an electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode, and a separator; a case accommodating the electrode assembly; and insulating portions on upper and lower surfaces of the electrode assembly, the insulating portions insulating the case and the electrode assembly from each other. 2.The secondary battery of claim 1, wherein the electrode assembly includes: a center electrode portion including the first electrode, the separator, and the second electrode alternately stacked; and a pair of outer electrode portions on upper and lower surfaces of the center electrode portion, wherein the insulating portions are on opposite surfaces of the outer electrode portions facing surfaces of the center electrode portion. 3.The secondary battery of claim 2, wherein each of the pair of outer electrode portions includes: a substrate having an electrode tab protruding outward from one side; and an active material layer on at least a portion of an area on one surface of the substrate other than the electrode tab, wherein the insulating portion is on at least a portion of the area on the other surface of the substrate other than the electrode tab. 4.The secondary battery of claim 2, wherein the insulating portions include an insulating material stacked on the outer electrode portions or an insulating film attached to the outer electrode portions. 5.The secondary battery of claim 2, wherein each of the pair of outer electrode portions includes: a metal layer including an electrode tab protruding outward from one side; an insulating film layer on an entire portion of one surface of the metal layer and the electrode tab and including an insulating material; an active material layer on an opposite surface of the one surface of the metal layer; and an electrode tab metal layer on an area of a surface of the insulating film layer opposite the metal layer corresponding to the electrode tab, wherein an area of the surface of the insulating film layer not positioned by the electrode tab metal layer is the insulating portion. 6.The secondary battery of claim 1, wherein the case includes: a case body having an opening at one side and accommodating the electrode assembly; and a case cover coupled to the one side of the case body having the opening, wherein the secondary battery further includes an auxiliary insulating portion on an inner surface of at least one of the case body and the case cover. 7.A method of manufacturing a secondary battery, the method comprising: forming a center electrode portion by alternately stacking a first electrode, a separator, and a second electrode; forming a pair of outer electrode portions having insulating portions; stacking the pair of outer electrode portions on upper and lower surfaces of the center electrode portion, respectively, such that the insulating portions are on opposite surfaces of the outer electrode portions facing surfaces of the center electrode portion to form an electrode assembly; and accommodating the electrode assembly in a case. 8.The method of claim 7, wherein the forming the pair of outer electrode portions having the insulating portions includes: forming the insulating portions by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to one surface of a substrate including a metal material; ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ ​ forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer in a region of the other surface of the substrate corresponding to the region in which the insulating portion is formed; forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; and forming a first outer electrode portion and a second outer electrode portion by punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

9. The method according to claim 8, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate such that electrode tabs are formed in regions in which the insulating portion and the active material layer are not formed.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion further includes punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate while the pair of outer electrode portions are stacked on the electrode assembly such that the electrode tabs of the first electrode plate and the electrode tabs of the second electrode plate formed during the punching of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate face each other.

11. The method according to claim 8, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes: forming a first outer electrode portion by punching the first electrode plate having a surface on which the insulating portion is formed; and forming a second outer electrode portion by punching the second electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer is formed.

12. The method according to claim 7, wherein the forming the pair of outer electrode portions having the insulating portion includes: forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer on one surface of a substrate formed of a metal material; forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; forming a first outer electrode portion and a second outer electrode portion by punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate; and forming the insulating portion by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to one surface of the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion on which the active material layer is not formed.

13. The method according to claim 12, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate such that electrode tabs are formed in regions in which the active material layer is not formed.

14. The method according to claim 12, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes: forming a first outer electrode portion by punching the first electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer is not formed; and forming a second outer electrode portion by punching the second electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer is formed.

15. The method according to claim 7, wherein the forming the pair of outer electrode portions having the insulating portion includes: forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer on one surface of a substrate including a metal material; forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; ​ ​ the insulating portion is formed by applying an insulating material to or attaching an insulating film to a region of the other surface of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate corresponding to a region in which the active material layer is formed; and the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion are formed by punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

16. The method of claim 7, wherein the forming the pair of outer electrode portions having the insulating portion includes: forming an electrode tab metal layer by applying a metal material to a region on an opposite end of one surface of an insulating film layer including an insulating material; forming a metal layer by applying the metal material to an entire other surface of the insulating film layer; forming an electrode plate by forming an active material layer by applying an active material to at least a portion of a region of the metal layer other than a region corresponding to a region in which the electrode tab metal layer is formed; forming a first electrode plate and a second electrode plate by cutting the electrode plate; and the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion are formed by punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate such that an electrode tab is formed in a region in which the active material layer is not formed.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion further includes punching the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate while the pair of outer electrode portions are stacked on the electrode assembly such that the electrode tab of the first electrode plate and the electrode tab of the second electrode plate formed during punching of the first electrode plate and the second electrode plate face each other.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein the forming the first outer electrode portion and the second outer electrode portion includes: forming a first outer electrode portion by punching the first electrode plate having a surface on which the electrode tab metal layer is formed; and forming the second outer electrode portion by punching the second electrode plate having a surface on which the active material layer is formed.

20. The method of claim 7, wherein the case includes: a case body having an opening at one side and accommodating the electrode assembly; and a case cover coupled to the one side of the case body having the opening, wherein the method further includes forming an auxiliary insulating portion on an inner surface of at least one of the case body and the case cover. ​

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