Battery and electronic device comprising same

Abstract

A battery according to one embodiment may comprise: a case; and an electrode assembly which is disposed in the case and which includes a first electrode, a second electrode having a polarity different from that of the first electrode, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator can include: a base layer including pores; and a coating material applied onto the surface of the base layer, and penetrated into the pores so as to cover the inner surface of each of the pores. The coating material can include: a polymer material containing catecholamine; and ceramic particles, each having a size smaller than the pore size of each of the pores.

Description

Batteries and electronic devices containing them

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a battery and an electronic device including the same.

[0002] An electronic device may include electronic components for providing various functions of the electronic device. The electronic device may include a battery for providing power to the electronic components. The battery may include an electrode assembly for supplying power. The electrode assembly may include a separator disposed between a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The separator may include pores for allowing ions (e.g., lithium ions) to pass through.

[0003] The above information may be provided as background art to aid in understanding the present disclosure. No claim or determination is made as to whether any of the above is applicable as prior art related to the present disclosure.

[0004] A battery is disclosed. The battery may include a case, and an electrode assembly disposed within the case, the electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator may include a base layer including pores, and a coating material coated on a surface of the base layer and penetrating into the interior of the pores to cover an inner surface of each of the pores. The coating material may include a polymer material including catecholamine, and ceramic particles each having a size smaller than a size of each of the pores.

[0005] An electronic device is disclosed. The electronic device may include an electronic component and a battery configured to supply power to the electronic component. The battery may include a case, and an electrode assembly disposed within the case, the electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator may include a base layer including pores, and a coating material coated on a surface of the base layer and penetrating into the interior of the pores to cover an inner surface of each of the pores. The coating material may include a polymer material including a catecholamine, and ceramic particles each having a size within a range of 1 nm to 1 μm.

[0006] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0007] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a power management module and battery of an exemplary electronic device.

[0008] Figure 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary battery.

[0009] Figure 4 illustrates a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0010] Figure 5 illustrates a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0011] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c illustrate portions of a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0012] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing a manufacturing process of a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an electronic device within a network environment according to various embodiments.

[0014] Referring to FIG. 1, in a network environment (100), an electronic device (101) may communicate with an electronic device (102) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range wireless communication network), or may communicate with at least one of an electronic device (104) or a server (108) via a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range wireless communication network). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may communicate with the electronic device (104) via the server (108). According to one embodiment, the electronic device (101) may include a processor (120), a memory (130), an input module (150), an audio output module (155), a display module (160), an audio module (170), a sensor module (176), an interface (177), a connection terminal (178), a haptic module (179), a camera module (180), a power management module (188), a battery (189), a communication module (190), a subscriber identification module (196), or an antenna module (197). In some embodiments, the electronic device (101) may omit at least one of these components (e.g., the connection terminal (178)), or may have one or more other components added. In some embodiments, some of these components (e.g., the sensor module (176), the camera module (180), or the antenna module (197)) may be integrated into one component (e.g., the display module (160)).

[0015] The processor (120) may, for example, execute software (e.g., a program (140)) to control at least one other component (e.g., a hardware or software component) of the electronic device (101) connected to the processor (120) and perform various data processing or operations. According to one embodiment, as at least a part of the data processing or operations, the processor (120) may store commands or data received from other components (e.g., a sensor module (176) or a communication module (190)) in a volatile memory (132), process the commands or data stored in the volatile memory (132), and store result data in a non-volatile memory (134). According to one embodiment, the processor (120) may include a main processor (121) (e.g., a central processing unit or an application processor) or an auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a graphics processing unit, a neural processing unit (NPU), an image signal processor, a sensor hub processor, or a communication processor) that can operate independently or together with the main processor (121). For example, when the electronic device (101) includes the main processor (121) and the auxiliary processor (123), the auxiliary processor (123) may be configured to use less power than the main processor (121) or to be specialized for a given function. The auxiliary processor (123) may be implemented separately from the main processor (121) or as a part thereof.

[0016] The auxiliary processor (123) may control at least a portion of functions or states associated with at least one component (e.g., a display module (160), a sensor module (176), or a communication module (190)) of the electronic device (101), for example, on behalf of the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an inactive (e.g., sleep) state, or together with the main processor (121) while the main processor (121) is in an active (e.g., application execution) state. In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., an image signal processor or a communication processor) may be implemented as a part of another functionally related component (e.g., a camera module (180) or a communication module (190)). In one embodiment, the auxiliary processor (123) (e.g., a neural network processing unit) may include a hardware structure specialized for processing artificial intelligence models. The artificial intelligence models may be generated through machine learning. This learning can be performed, for example, on the electronic device (101) itself where the artificial intelligence model is executed, or can be performed through a separate server (e.g., server (108)). The learning algorithm can include, for example, supervised learning, unsupervised learning, semi-supervised learning, or reinforcement learning, but is not limited to the examples described above. The artificial intelligence model can include multiple artificial neural network layers.The artificial neural network may be one of a deep neural network (DNN), a convolutional neural network (CNN), a recurrent neural network (RNN), a restricted Boltzmann machine (RBM), a deep belief network (DBN), a bidirectional recurrent deep neural network (BRDNN), a deep Q-network, or a combination of two or more of the above, but is not limited to the examples described above. In addition to, or alternatively to, a hardware structure, an artificial intelligence model may include a software structure.

[0017] The memory (130) can store various data used by at least one component (e.g., processor (120) or sensor module (176)) of the electronic device (101). The data can include, for example, software (e.g., program (140)) and input data or output data for commands related thereto. The memory (130) can include volatile memory (132) or non-volatile memory (134).

[0018] The program (140) may be stored as software in the memory (130) and may include, for example, an operating system (142), middleware (144), or an application (146).

[0019] The input module (150) can receive commands or data to be used in a component of the electronic device (101) (e.g., a processor (120)) from an external source (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The input module (150) can include, for example, a microphone, a mouse, a keyboard, a key (e.g., a button), or a digital pen (e.g., a stylus pen).

[0020] The audio output module (155) can output audio signals to the outside of the electronic device (101). The audio output module (155) can include, for example, a speaker or a receiver. The speaker can be used for general purposes, such as multimedia playback or recording playback. The receiver can be used to receive incoming calls. In one embodiment, the receiver can be implemented separately from the speaker or as part of the speaker.

[0021] The display module (160) can visually provide information to an external party (e.g., a user) of the electronic device (101). The display module (160) may include, for example, a display, a holographic device, or a projector and a control circuit for controlling the device. According to one embodiment, the display module (160) may include a touch sensor configured to detect a touch, or a pressure sensor configured to measure the intensity of a force generated by the touch.

[0022] The audio module (170) can convert sound into an electrical signal, or vice versa, convert an electrical signal into sound. According to one embodiment, the audio module (170) can acquire sound through the input module (150), output sound through the sound output module (155), or an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)) (e.g., speaker or headphone) directly or wirelessly connected to the electronic device (101).

[0023] The sensor module (176) can detect the operating status (e.g., power or temperature) of the electronic device (101) or the external environmental status (e.g., user status) and generate an electrical signal or data value corresponding to the detected status. According to one embodiment, the sensor module (176) can include, for example, a gesture sensor, a gyro sensor, a barometric pressure sensor, a magnetic sensor, an acceleration sensor, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor, a color sensor, an IR (infrared) sensor, a biometric sensor, a temperature sensor, a humidity sensor, or an illuminance sensor.

[0024] The interface (177) may support one or more designated protocols that may be used to directly or wirelessly connect the electronic device (101) with an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (102)). In one embodiment, the interface (177) may include, for example, a high definition multimedia interface (HDMI), a universal serial bus (USB) interface, an SD card interface, or an audio interface.

[0025] The connection terminal (178) may include a connector through which the electronic device (101) may be physically connected to an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102)). According to one embodiment, the connection terminal (178) may include, for example, an HDMI connector, a USB connector, an SD card connector, or an audio connector (e.g., a headphone connector).

[0026] The haptic module (179) can convert electrical signals into mechanical stimuli (e.g., vibration or movement) or electrical stimuli that a user can perceive through tactile or kinesthetic sensations. According to one embodiment, the haptic module (179) can include, for example, a motor, a piezoelectric element, or an electrical stimulation device.

[0027] The camera module (180) can capture still images and videos. According to one embodiment, the camera module (180) may include one or more lenses, image sensors, image signal processors, or flashes.

[0028] The power management module (188) can manage power supplied to the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power management module (188) can be implemented as, for example, at least a part of a power management integrated circuit (PMIC).

[0029] A battery (189) may power at least one component of the electronic device (101). In one embodiment, the battery (189) may include, for example, a non-rechargeable primary battery, a rechargeable secondary battery, or a fuel cell.

[0030] The communication module (190) may support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) communication channel or a wireless communication channel between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (e.g., electronic device (102), electronic device (104), or server (108)), and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. The communication module (190) may operate independently from the processor (120) (e.g., application processor) and may include one or more communication processors that support direct (e.g., wired) communication or wireless communication. According to one embodiment, the communication module (190) may include a wireless communication module (192) (e.g., a cellular communication module, a short-range wireless communication module, or a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) communication module) or a wired communication module (194) (e.g., a local area network (LAN) communication module, or a power line communication module). Among these communication modules, the corresponding communication module can communicate with an external electronic device (104) via a first network (198) (e.g., a short-range communication network such as Bluetooth, wireless fidelity (WiFi) direct, or infrared data association (IrDA)) or a second network (199) (e.g., a long-range communication network such as a legacy cellular network, a 5G network, a next-generation communication network, the Internet, or a computer network (e.g., a LAN or WAN)). These various types of communication modules can be integrated into a single component (e.g., a single chip) or implemented as multiple separate components (e.g., multiple chips). The wireless communication module (192) can verify or authenticate the electronic device (101) within a communication network such as the first network (198) or the second network (199) by using subscriber information (e.g., an international mobile subscriber identity (IMSI)) stored in the subscriber identification module (196).

[0031] The wireless communication module (192) can support 5G networks and next-generation communication technologies following the 4G network, such as NR access technology (new radio access technology). The NR access technology can support high-speed transmission of high-capacity data (eMBB (enhanced mobile broadband)), minimization of terminal power and connection of multiple terminals (mMTC (massive machine type communications)), or high reliability and low latency (URLLC (ultra-reliable and low-latency communications)). The wireless communication module (192) can support, for example, a high-frequency band (e.g., mmWave band) to achieve a high data transmission rate. The wireless communication module (192) can support various technologies for securing performance in a high-frequency band, such as beamforming, massive multiple-input and multiple-output (MIMO), full dimensional MIMO (FD-MIMO), array antenna, analog beam-forming, or large scale antenna. The wireless communication module (192) can support various requirements specified in the electronic device (101), an external electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (104)), or a network system (e.g., the second network (199)). According to one embodiment, the wireless communication module (192) can support a peak data rate (e.g., 20 Gbps or more) for eMBB realization, a loss coverage (e.g., 164 dB or less) for mMTC realization, or a U-plane latency (e.g., 0.5 ms or less for downlink (DL) and uplink (UL), or 1 ms or less for round trip) for URLLC realization.

[0032] The antenna module (197) can transmit or receive signals or power to or from an external device (e.g., an external electronic device). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include an antenna including a radiator formed of a conductor or a conductive pattern formed on a substrate (e.g., a PCB). In one embodiment, the antenna module (197) may include a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna). In this case, at least one antenna suitable for a communication method used in a communication network, such as the first network (198) or the second network (199), may be selected from the plurality of antennas, for example, by the communication module (190). A signal or power may be transmitted or received between the communication module (190) and an external electronic device via the at least one selected antenna. In some embodiments, in addition to the radiator, another component (e.g., a radio frequency integrated circuit (RFIC)) may be additionally formed as a part of the antenna module (197).

[0033] According to various embodiments, the antenna module (197) may form a mmWave antenna module. In one embodiment, the mmWave antenna module may include a printed circuit board, an RFIC disposed on or adjacent a first side (e.g., a bottom side) of the printed circuit board and capable of supporting a designated high-frequency band (e.g., a mmWave band), and a plurality of antennas (e.g., an array antenna) disposed on or adjacent a second side (e.g., a top side or a side side) of the printed circuit board and capable of transmitting or receiving signals in the designated high-frequency band.

[0034] At least some of the above components can be interconnected and exchange signals (e.g., commands or data) with each other via a communication method between peripheral devices (e.g., a bus, GPIO (general purpose input and output), SPI (serial peripheral interface), or MIPI (mobile industry processor interface)).

[0035] According to one embodiment, commands or data may be transmitted or received between the electronic device (101) and an external electronic device (104) via a server (108) connected to a second network (199). Each of the external electronic devices (102 or 104) may be the same or a different type of device as the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, all or part of the operations executed in the electronic device (101) may be executed in one or more of the external electronic devices (102, 104, or 108). For example, when the electronic device (101) is to perform a certain function or service automatically or in response to a request from a user or another device, the electronic device (101) may, instead of or in addition to executing the function or service itself, request one or more external electronic devices to perform the function or at least a part of the service. One or more external electronic devices that receive the request may execute at least a portion of the requested function or service, or an additional function or service related to the request, and transmit the result of the execution to the electronic device (101). The electronic device (101) may process the result as is or additionally and provide it as at least a portion of a response to the request. For this purpose, cloud computing, distributed computing, mobile edge computing (MEC), or client-server computing technology may be used, for example. The electronic device (101) may provide an ultra-low latency service by using distributed computing or mobile edge computing, for example. In another embodiment, the external electronic device (104) may include an Internet of Things (IoT) device. The server (108) may be an intelligent server utilizing machine learning and / or a neural network. According to one embodiment, the external electronic device (104) or the server (108) may be included in the second network (199).The electronic device (101) can be applied to intelligent services (e.g., smart home, smart city, smart car, or healthcare) based on 5G communication technology and IoT-related technology.

[0036] Figure 2 is a block diagram of a power management module and battery of an exemplary electronic device.

[0037] Referring to FIG. 2, the power management module (188) may include a charging circuit (210), a power regulator (220), or a power gauge (230). The charging circuit (210) may charge the battery (189) using power supplied from an external power source for the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the charging circuit (210) may select a charging method (e.g., normal charging or rapid charging) based on at least some of the type of the external power source (e.g., power adapter, USB, or wireless charging), the amount of power that can be supplied from the external power source (e.g., about 20 watts or more), or the properties of the battery (189), and may charge the battery (189) using the selected charging method. The external power source may be connected to the electronic device (101) by a wire, for example, through a connection terminal (178), or may be connected wirelessly through an antenna module (197).

[0038] The power regulator (220) can generate a plurality of powers having different voltages or different current levels by adjusting the voltage level or current level of the power supplied from, for example, an external power source or a battery (189). The power regulator (220) can adjust the power of the external power source or the battery (189) to a voltage or current level suitable for each of the components included in the electronic device (101). According to one embodiment, the power regulator (220) can be implemented in the form of an LDO (low drop out) regulator or a switching regulator. The power gauge (230) can measure usage status information for the battery (189) (e.g., capacity, number of charge / discharge cycles, voltage, or temperature of the battery (189).

[0039] The power management module (188) can determine charging state information (e.g., lifespan, overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, overcharge, overdischarge, overheat, short circuit, or swelling) related to charging of the battery (189) based at least in part on the measured usage state information, for example, using the charging circuit (210), the voltage regulator (220), or the power gauge (230). The power management module (188) can determine whether the battery (189) is normal or abnormal based at least in part on the determined charging state information. If the state of the battery (189) is determined to be abnormal, the power management module (188) can adjust charging of the battery (189) (e.g., reducing the charging current or voltage, or stopping charging). According to one embodiment, at least some of the functions of the power management module (188) can be performed by an external control device (e.g., the processor (120)).

[0040] The battery (189) may include a battery protection circuit module (PCM) (240). The battery protection circuit (240) may perform one or more of various functions (e.g., a pre-cut function) to prevent performance degradation or damage of the battery (189). The battery protection circuit (240) may additionally or alternatively be configured as at least a part of a battery management system (BMS) that may perform various functions including cell balancing, capacity measurement of the battery, charge / discharge cycle measurement, temperature measurement, or voltage measurement.

[0041] For example, at least a portion of the usage status information or the charging status information of the battery (189) may be measured using a corresponding sensor (e.g., a temperature sensor) among the sensor modules (276), a power gauge (230), or a power management module (188). For example, the corresponding sensor (e.g., a temperature sensor) among the sensor modules (176) may be included as part of the battery protection circuit (240), or may be placed near the battery (189) as a separate device. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0042] Figure 3 is an exploded view of an exemplary battery.

[0043] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery (300) (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1) may include a case (310) and an electrode assembly (320).

[0044] According to one embodiment, the battery (300) may be disposed within an electronic device (e.g., the electronic device (101) of FIG. 1). The battery (300) may be configured to supply power to electronic components within the electronic device (101). For example, the battery (300) may be supported by an internal structure (e.g., a bracket) of the electronic device (101) or mounted on the bracket. For example, the battery (300) may be configured to be rechargeable for driving the electronic device (101) and / or electronic components within the electronic device (101). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0045] For example, a printed circuit board having electronic components for driving and / or performing functions of the electronic device (101) may be placed inside an electronic device (101) including a battery (300). The printed circuit board may be connected to the battery (300) to supply power to the electronic device (101) and / or electronic components inside the electronic device (101) through the battery (300). For example, a power management integrated circuit (PMIC) (or power management module (188) of FIG. 1) in the printed circuit board may be connected to the battery (300) through a flexible printed circuit board (FPCB) to supply power to the electronic device (101). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0046] According to one embodiment, the case (310) may form the exterior of the battery (300). For example, the case (310) may accommodate internal components of the battery (300) (e.g., electrode assembly (320)). The case (310) may protect the internal components of the battery (300) disposed within the case (310) from external impact. For example, the case (310) may be coupled to an internal structure (e.g., a bracket) of the electronic device (101) or may be detachably attached to the internal structure using an adhesive (e.g., an adhesive tape). For example, the case (310) may be a pouch type case as illustrated in FIG. 3, but embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and for example, the case (310) may include a can type case, a cylindrical type case, or a square type case.

[0047] For example, the case (310) may include a first plate (311) and a second plate (312) coupled to the first plate (311). For example, the first plate (311) may be capped on the second plate (312) or rotatably coupled to the second plate (312). For example, the second plate (312) may be formed with a recess (315) for accommodating an electrode assembly (320) of the battery (300). The second plate (312) may extend from the first plate (311) or be formed integrally with the first plate (311). For example, the second plate (312) may be coupled to the first plate (311) to enclose the electrode assembly (320) together with the first plate (311). However, the embodiments supported in this document are not limited thereto.

[0048] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly (320) may include a plurality of electrodes for supplying power to the electronic device (101) (or electronic components within the electronic device (101). For example, the electrode assembly (320) may include a first electrode (321) and a second electrode (322) having a different polarity with respect to the first electrode (321). The electrode assembly (320) may include a separator (323) interposed between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). For example, the first electrode (321) may be referred to as an anode of the electrode assembly (320). The second electrode (322) may be referred to as a cathode having a different polarity with respect to the first electrode (321). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the electrode assembly (320) may be provided through stacking in which a plurality of anodes including a first electrode (321) and a plurality of cathodes including a second electrode (322) are alternately laminated, as illustrated in FIG. 3. According to another embodiment, the electrode assembly (320) may be provided through winding in which electrode stacks in which anodes, cathodes, and separators therebetween are combined are rolled. In addition, it should be noted that the arrangement relationship between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322) within the electrode assembly (320) is not limited. For example, unlike as illustrated, among the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322), the first electrode (321) may be formed as the outermost layer of the electrode assembly (320). However, the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0049] According to one embodiment, the electrode assembly (320) may include an electrode substrate and an electrode active material layer coated on the electrode substrate.

[0050] For example, the first electrode (321) may include a positive electrode substrate and a positive electrode active material layer. The positive electrode substrate may be connected to an external circuit of the battery (300) and used to supply electrons generated during a charging or discharging process to the outside or inside of the positive electrode active material layer. For example, the positive electrode substrate may be electrically connected to the external circuit of the battery (300) and may provide electrons generated in the positive electrode active material layer to the external circuit during charging, or may provide electrons supplied through the external circuit to the positive electrode active material layer during discharging. For example, the positive electrode substrate may include aluminum. The positive electrode substrate may be implemented in the form of an aluminum foil, but the embodiments supported in this document are not limited thereto.

[0051] For example, the second electrode (322) may include a negative electrode substrate and a negative electrode active material layer coated on the negative electrode substrate. The negative electrode substrate may collect electrons generated in the negative electrode active material layer according to an electrochemical reaction, or provide electrons required for the electrochemical reaction to the negative electrode active material layer. For example, the negative electrode substrate may be electrically connected to an external circuit of the battery (300), and may provide electrons generated in the negative electrode active material layer to the external circuit during discharge, or provide electrons supplied through the external circuit to the negative electrode active material layer during charge. For example, the negative electrode substrate may include copper. The negative electrode substrate may be implemented in the form of a copper foil, but the embodiments supported in this document are not limited thereto.

[0052] For example, the separator (323) may be disposed between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322), respectively. For example, the separator (323) may provide a passage through which lithium ions may pass. For example, the separator (323) may physically separate or space the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). The separator (323) may prevent physical contact (or direct electrical short) between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322) having different electrical characteristics.

[0053] According to one embodiment, the battery (300) may include an electrode tab (330) extending from an electrode assembly (320). The electrode tab (330) may include a first electrode tab (331) extending from positive electrodes including a first electrode (321), and a second electrode tab (332) extending from negative electrodes including a second electrode (322). For example, the electrode tab (330) may extend from the electrode assembly (320) within a case (310). The electrode tab (330) may be electrically connected to a circuit external to the battery (300) (e.g., a circuit on a first printed circuit board (250)) or to another battery, thereby forming a battery module or a battery pack, through a lead tab (440) that is electrically connected to the electrode tab (330) and at least partially exposed to the outside of the case (310). For example, the first electrode tab (331) may electrically connect the first electrode (321) of the electrode assembly (320) to electronic components and / or circuits external to the battery (300) via the first lead tab (341). The second tab (332) may electrically connect the second electrode (322) of the electrode assembly (320) to electronic components and / or circuits external to the battery (300) via the second lead tab (342). The electronic components and / or circuits may include a power management circuit, a charging circuit (e.g., the charging circuit (210) of FIG. 2), a power input pad, and / or a battery connector, but the embodiments supported in this document are not limited thereto.

[0054] For example, the lead tab (340) may be connected to the electrode tab (330) by passing through the case (310) and the insulating cover (350), respectively. For example, the lead tab (340) may be electrically connected to a circuit outside the battery (300) or may be electrically connected to another battery, thereby forming a battery module or a battery pack. For example, the lead tab (340) may include a conductive material (e.g., metal) so that power may be transmitted through the lead tab (340).

[0055] For example, the first electrode tab (331) may be formed by stacking and / or joining positive electrode tabs extending from the positive electrodes. For example, the positive electrode tabs may include a first tab (331a) extending from the first electrode (321). The second electrode tab (342) may be formed by stacking and / or joining negative electrode tabs extending from the negative electrodes. For example, the negative electrode tabs may include a second tab (332a) extending from the second electrode (322). For example, the electrode tabs (330) may be electrically connected to the corresponding lead tabs (340) through welding, but the embodiments supported in this document are not limited thereto, and the electrode tabs (330) may be joined to the corresponding lead tabs (340) through various processes.

[0056] For example, when discharging the battery (300), power provided from the electrode assembly (320) can be sequentially provided to the external circuit of the battery (300) connected to the lead tab (340) through the electrode tab (330) and the lead tab (340). When charging the battery (300), power provided from the charging device can be sequentially transmitted to the electrode assembly (320) through the lead tab (340) and the electrode tab (330).

[0057] Although not shown, the battery (300) may include an electrolyte disposed within the case (310). The electrolyte may provide a path through which lithium ions may move between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). For example, the electrolyte may include a liquid electrolyte or a gel electrolyte. When charging, lithium ions may be deintercalated from the positive electrode active material layer and may move to the negative electrode active material layer through the electrolyte and the separator (323). The lithium ions that have moved to the negative electrode active material layer may be intercalated into the negative electrode active material layer as a reduction reaction occurs. Electrons generated during the deintercalation of lithium ions may move to the negative electrode active material layer through the external circuit. For example, when the battery (300) is discharged, lithium ions inserted into the negative electrode active material layer are deintercalated and ionized into the electrolyte, and the ionized lithium ions may move to the positive electrode active material layer through the electrolyte and the separator (323). Electrons generated in the negative active material layer by the desorption of lithium ions can travel to the positive active material layer through the external circuit. Lithium ions can be inserted into the positive active material layer by combining with electrons to cause a reduction reaction. When the battery (300) is discharged, electrons passing through the external circuit can perform work.

[0058] For example, the separator (323) may be configured to allow ions in the electrolyte to pass through pores formed in the separator (323). For example, lithium ions in the electrolyte may be able to move between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322) through pores formed in the separator (323).

[0059] According to one embodiment, the separator (323) of the electrode assembly (320) may require a structure to reduce damage to the separator (323) due to heat generated from the electrode assembly (320) and to improve the stability of the battery (300). The structure is described through an exemplary illustration in FIG. 4.

[0060] Figure 4 illustrates a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0061] Referring to FIG. 4, a battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1, battery (300) of FIG. 3) may include a case (e.g., case (310) of FIG. 3), and an electrode assembly (e.g., electrode assembly (320) of FIG. 3) disposed within the case (310) and including a first electrode (e.g., first electrode (321) of FIG. 3), a second electrode (e.g., second electrode (322) of FIG. 3) configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode (321), and a separator (323) disposed between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322).

[0062] According to one embodiment, the separator (323) may include a base layer (400) including pores, a polymer layer (420) disposed on the base layer (400), and a ceramic layer (430) disposed on the polymer layer (420).

[0063] According to one embodiment, the base layer (400) may be a substrate or base material of the separator (323). The base layer (400) may provide a mounting surface or a coating surface for components of the separator (323) (e.g., a polymer layer (420), a coating layer (430)). The base layer (400) may be, for example, the innermost layer of the separator (323). For example, the base layer (400) may electrically insulate the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322) configured to have different polarities within the electrode assembly (320), thereby preventing a short circuit between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). For example, the base layer (400) may be formed from a polyolefin-based material. The above base layer (400) may be formed from, for example, polyethylene or polypropylene, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0064] For example, pores (410) formed in the base layer (400) can penetrate at least a portion of the base layer (400). Through the pores (410), ions can move between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). For example, the separator (323) can be immersed in an electrolyte between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). Through the pores (410), the electrolyte can be flowable between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). Since the electrolyte is a non-conductive material, electrons generated from the first electrode (321) or the second electrode (322) can move through an external circuit without passing through the separator (323). Ions released from the first electrode (321) or the second electrode (322) can move through the electrolyte and the pores (410) of the base layer (400).

[0065] For example, heat may be generated from the electrode assembly (320) during the charging and discharging process of the battery (300). For example, heat may be generated by current resistance as current is formed by the movement of electrons generated from the first electrode (321) or the second electrode (322). For example, heat may be generated by a chemical reaction of ions as ions move between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). The separator (323) may be required to have a structure to reduce damage and thermal deformation of the base layer (400) due to heat generated from the electrode assembly (320).

[0066] According to one embodiment, the polymer layer (420) can be coated on the base layer (400). For example, the polymer layer (420) can cover at least a portion of the surface (405) of the base layer (400) or be attached on the surface (405). For example, the polymer layer (420) can be in direct contact with the base layer (400). The polymer layer (420) can protect the base layer (400) by being formed on the surface (405) of the base layer (400). For example, the polymer layer (420) can improve the thermal stability of the separator (323) by reducing heat transfer from the first electrode (321) or the second electrode (322) to the base layer (400).

[0067] For example, the polymer layer (420) may be formed from a material having relatively excellent adhesiveness, thereby improving the adhesive strength between the separator (323) and the electrodes (321, 322). For example, the polymer layer (420) may be formed from a material having relatively excellent wettability, thereby enabling the electrolyte to be evenly distributed around the separator (323). The polymer layer (420) may be formed from, for example, polydopamine, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0068] For example, the polymer layer (420) may include a first polymer layer (421) coated on a first side (400a) of the base layer (400), and a second polymer layer (422) coated on a second side (400b) of the base layer (400) opposite to the first side (400a). The first polymer layer (421) may be disposed between the base layer (400) and the first electrode (321). The second polymer layer (422) may be disposed between the base layer (400) and the second electrode (322). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0069] In one embodiment, the ceramic layer (430) may be coated on the polymer layer (430). For example, the ceramic layer (430) may be attached to a surface of the polymer layer (420) or may cover the polymer layer (420). For example, the ceramic layer (430) may be in direct contact with the polymer layer (420). The ceramic layer (430) may be separated from the base layer (400) by, for example, the polymer layer (420). For example, the ceramic layer (430) may improve the thermal stability of the separator (323) together with the polymer layer (420) and may function as an electrical insulator between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322), thereby reducing short circuits between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322).

[0070] For example, the ceramic layer (430) can protect the base layer (400) and the polymer layer (420) of the separator (323) by being formed from a relatively rigid material. For example, the ceramic layer (430) can reduce the degradation of the performance of the battery (300) due to the formation of lithium dendrites from lithium ions that can move through the separator (323). For example, since the size of each of the ceramic particles forming the ceramic layer (420) is within the micrometer scale, the ceramic particles can be coated on the base layer (400) (or the polymer layer (420)) without penetrating into the pores (410) of the base layer (400). For example, the ceramic layer (420) can be formed from aluminum oxide, zirconium oxide, or silica, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0071] For example, the ceramic layer (430) may include a first ceramic layer (431) coated on a first polymer layer (421), and a second ceramic layer (432) coated on a second polymer layer (422). For example, the first polymer layer (421) may be interposed between the base layer (400) and the first ceramic layer (431). The second polymer layer (422) may be interposed between the base layer (400) and the second ceramic layer (432). For example, the first ceramic layer (431) may face the first electrode (321). The second ceramic layer (432) may face the second electrode (322). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0072] According to one embodiment, the performance of the separator (323) may be degraded by the double stack structure (or double coating structure) of the polymer layer (420) and the ceramic layer (430) coated on the base layer (400). For example, the performance of the battery (300) may be degraded when the pores (410) of the base layer (400) are blocked by the double layer structure of the polymer layer (420) and the ceramic layer (430) covering the base layer (400). For example, the process of forming the double layer structure of the polymer layer (420) and the ceramic layer (430) on the base layer (400) may become complicated. The separator (323) may require a coating structure of the base layer (400) to improve the performance of the battery (300) and simplify the manufacturing process of the separator (323) while increasing the thermal stability of the separator (323). The above structure is explained through an exemplary diagram below in Fig. 6a.

[0073] Figure 5 illustrates a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0074] According to one embodiment, referring to FIG. 5, a battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1, battery (300) of FIG. 3) may include a case (e.g., case (310) of FIG. 3), and an electrode assembly (e.g., electrode assembly (320) of FIG. 3) disposed within the case (310) and including a first electrode (e.g., first electrode (321) of FIG. 3), a second electrode (e.g., second electrode (322) of FIG. 3) configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode (321), and a separator (550) disposed between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). The separator (550) may include a base layer (530) including pores (540). Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of components having the same reference numerals as exemplarily illustrated and described in FIG. 4 may be omitted.

[0075] The pores (540) exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5 are illustrated as a single pore shape for convenience of explanation, but the embodiment supported by the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and as exemplarily illustrated in FIG. 5, a single hole penetrating the first side (530a) and the second side (530b) of the base layer (530) may be formed through a plurality of pores. However, the embodiment supported by the present disclosure is not limited thereto.

[0076] According to one embodiment, the separator (550) may be coated on the surface (535) of the base layer (530). It may include a coating material (500) that penetrates into the pores (540) so as to cover the inner surface (540a) of each pore (540) of the base layer (530).

[0077] For example, the coating material (500) can be coated on the first surface (530a) of the base layer (530), the second surface (530b) opposite to the first surface (530a), and the inner surface (540a) of the pores (540) inside the base. At least a portion of the coating material (500) can cover the inner surface (540a) of each of the pores (540), for example, by permeating into the pores (540). For example, the coating material (500) can substantially cover the entire surface (535) of the base layer (530). The coating material (500) can be formed on the base layer (530), for example, by permeating the base layer (530) into an aqueous solution for forming the coating material (500).

[0078] For example, the coating material (500) can simplify the structure of the separator (550) and reduce clogging of the pores (540) of the base layer (530) by forming a single coating layer (or single coating film), unlike the double coating structure of the polymer layer (420) and the ceramic layer (430) of FIG. 4. Compositions of the coating material (500) for protecting the base layer (530) are described.

[0079] According to one embodiment, the coating material (500) may include a polymer material (510) including catecholamine, and ceramic particles (520) each having a size smaller than the size of the pores (540) of the base layer (530). For example, the coating material (500) may have a structure in which the polymer material (510) and the ceramic particles (520) are mixed. For example, the coating material (500) may be formed by the ceramic particles (520) being attached or bound to each other by the polymer material (510). For example, unlike the polymer layer (420) and the ceramic layer (430) formed as separate layers in FIG. 5, the coating material (500) may have a layer structure in which the polymer material (510) and the ceramic particles (520) are formed as an integral whole. The polymer material (510) and the ceramic particles (520) may be formed as a mixed layer. For example, the coating material (500) may be formed from a mixed solution of ceramic precursors and polydopamine. However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0080] In one embodiment, the polymer material (510) may have adhesive properties. The polymer material (510) may include, for example, various catechol derivatives and amine compounds. For example, the polymer material (510) may cover or coat the surface (535) of the base layer (530). The polymer material (510) may improve the wettability of the separator (550) to the electrolyte by being attached to the surface (535) of the base layer (530). For example, the catecholamine included in the polymer material (510) may be norepinephrine or polydopamine, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0081] According to one embodiment, the ceramic particles (520) may be attached or fixed on the surface of the base layer (530) by the polymer material (510). The ceramic particles (520), together with the polymer material (510), may be disposed within at least some of the pores (540). For example, unlike the ceramic layer (430) of FIG. 4, the size of each of the ceramic particles (520) within the coating material (500) may be within the nanoscale range. Since the size of each of the ceramic particles (520) is within the nanoscale range, the size of each of the ceramic particles (520) may be smaller than at least some of the pores (540). Since the size of each of the ceramic particles (520) is smaller than at least some of the pores (540), some of the ceramic particles (520) may penetrate into at least some of the pores (540). For example, the size of each pore (540) may be in the range of 1 nm to 1 μm, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0082] For example, the ceramic particles (520) may cover or coat at least a portion of the surface (535) of the base layer (530) together with the polymer material (510). For example, the surface of the coating material (500) may have an uneven shape due to the ceramic particles (520). For example, the ceramic particles (520) may improve the thermal stability and durability of the separator (550) by covering the surface (535) of the base layer (530). The separator (550) of the battery (300) may improve the thermal stability of the separator (550) and the performance of the battery (300) by including the coating material (500) formed on the surface (535) of the base layer (530) so as to coat the inner surface (540a) of each of the pores (540) of the base layer (530). The above coating material (500) can improve the performance of the separator (550) and simplify the manufacturing process of the separator (550) by including a polymer material (510) and ceramic particles (520). The manufacturing process of the separator (550) is described below through the illustrations in FIG. 7 and below.

[0083] According to one embodiment, the coating material (500) may include a first portion (501) coated on a first side (530a) of a base layer (530), a second portion (502) coated on a second side (530b) of the base layer (530) opposite to the first side (530a), and a third portion (503) coated on an inner surface (540a) of each of the pores (540).

[0084] For example, the first part (501) of the coating material (500) may be interposed between the first electrode (321) and the base layer (530). The second part (502) of the coating material (500) may be interposed between the second electrode (322) and the base layer (530). For example, the first side (530a) of the base layer (530) may be a side that faces the first electrode (321). The first part (501) of the coating material (500) may be attached to the first side (530a), thereby reducing damage to the base layer (530) due to heat from the first electrode (321) and improving wettability between the electrolyte and the separator (550) around the first side (530a). For example, the second side (530b) of the base layer (530) may be a side disposed toward the second electrode (322). The second portion (502) of the coating material (500) may be attached to the second side (530b), thereby reducing damage to the base layer (530) due to heat from the second electrode (322) and improving wettability between the electrolyte and the separator (550) around the second side (530b). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0085] For example, the third portion (503) of the coating material (500) may be a portion disposed within at least some of the pores (540) of the coating material (500). At least some of the third portion (503) may extend from the first portion (501) of the coating material (500) through at least some of the pores (540) to the second portion (502) of the coating material (500). For example, the third portion (503) may connect the first portion (501) and the second portion (502). For example, the third portion (503) may extend from the first side (530a) of the base layer (530) to the side (530b) of the base layer (530) opposite the first side (530a) by penetrating at least some of the pores (540). For example, the third portion (503) can be coated on the inner surface (540a) of each of the pores (540), thereby helping the flow of electrolyte into the pores (540) and reducing deformation of the pores (540) due to heat generated from the electrodes (321, 322). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0086] According to one embodiment, the thickness of the base layer (530) may be within a range of 3 μm to 20 μm. The thickness of each of the portions (501, 502) of the coating material (500) coated on the first side (530a) and the second side (530b) of the base layer (530) may be greater than the size of each of the pores (540). For example, the thickness of each of the portions (501, 502) of the coating material (500) may be within a range of 10 nm to 100 nm, but the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0087] In one embodiment, the polymer material (510) and the ceramic particles (520) may form a single layer together. For example, unlike as illustrated in FIG. 4, the separator (550) may have a single coating layer structure that coats the base layer (530) from the coating material (500). For example, the polymer material (510) may attach the ceramic particles (520) to the surface (535) of the base layer (530) such that the ceramic particles (520) are fixed to the surface (535) of the base layer (530). The single layer structure of the coating material (500) formed by the polymer material (510) and the ceramic particles (520) is described through exemplary drawings in FIG. 6A and below.

[0088] Figures 6a, 6b, and 6c illustrate portions of a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0089] Referring to FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, a battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1, battery (300) of FIG. 3) may include a case (e.g., case (310) of FIG. 3), and an electrode assembly (e.g., electrode assembly (320) of FIG. 3) disposed within the case (310) and including a first electrode (e.g., first electrode (321) of FIG. 3), a second electrode (e.g., second electrode (322) of FIG. 3) configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode (321), and a separator (550) disposed between the first electrode (321) and the second electrode (322). The above separation membrane (550) may include a base layer (530) including pores (e.g., pores (540) of FIG. 5), and a coating material (500) coated on a surface (535) of the base layer (530) and penetrating into the pores (540) to cover the inner surface (540a) of each pore (540). The coating material (500) may include a polymer material (510) including catecholamine, and ceramic particles (520) having a size smaller than the size of each pore of the pores (540). Hereinafter, redundant descriptions of components having the same reference numerals as exemplarily illustrated and described in FIGS. 4 and 5 may be omitted.

[0090] Referring to FIG. 6A, the polymer material (510) can form a polymer layer (610) covering a surface (535) of the base layer (530). The diameter (R) of each ceramic particle of the ceramic particles (520) can be greater than the thickness (t) of the polymer layer (610) so that the ceramic particles (520) can be attached to the surface (610a) of the polymer layer (610). For example, the ceramic particles (520) can protrude from the surface (610a) of the polymer layer (610). For example, the ceramic particles (520) can be visible from the outside of the polymer material (510) or can be exposed to the outside of the polymer material (510). For example, at least some of the ceramic particles (520) can penetrate or pass through the polymer layer (610). At least some of the ceramic particles (520) may penetrate the polymer layer (610) and come into contact with the surface (535) of the base layer (530), but the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 6B, the polymer material (510) may form a polymer layer (610) covering a surface (535) of the base layer (530). The diameter (R) of each ceramic particle of the ceramic particles (520) may be smaller than the thickness (t) of the polymer layer (610) such that at least some of the ceramic particles (520) are embedded in the polymer layer (610). For example, some of the ceramic particles (520) may be wrapped or surrounded by the polymer layer (610). The remaining some of the ceramic particles (520) may be partially exposed to the outside of the polymer layer (610). For example, the first ceramic particle (521) may be covered by the polymer material (510) forming the polymer layer (610) by being disposed in the polymer layer (610). The second ceramic particle (522) may be exposed to the outside of the polymer material (510) by partially protruding from the surface (610a) of the polymer layer (610). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0092] Referring to FIG. 6C, the polymer material (510) may form polymer particles (620) that attach the ceramic particles (520) to the surface (535) of the base layer (530). For example, the polymer particles (620) may each have a size within the nanoscale range, like the ceramic particles (520). For example, the polymer particles (620) may be at least partially disposed between the ceramic particles (520). For example, at least some of the polymer particles (620) may be covered by the ceramic particles (520) or may cover the ceramic particles (520). However, the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0093] It should be noted that the embodiments of FIGS. 6A to 6C are merely exemplary and that the embodiments of the separator (550) of the battery (300) supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0094] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing a manufacturing process of a separator of an exemplary battery.

[0095] Through the processes of FIG. 7, the separation membrane (323) exemplarily illustrated and described in FIGS. 5 to 6c can be manufactured. However, it should be noted that this is exemplary and that the embodiments supported by the present disclosure are not limited by the exemplary processes of FIG. 7 and / or the order of the processes.

[0096] In process (701), a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursor can be prepared. The solution can be provided, for example, by mixing a catecholamine aqueous solution and a ceramic precursor aqueous solution.

[0097] For example, the catecholamine aqueous solution may have a pH concentration of 7.5 to 10, preferably a pH concentration of 8.0 to 8.5, to promote a chemical reaction. Ethanol, an ethanol aqueous solution, and / or acetone may be used as the organic solvent of the catecholamine aqueous solution. For example, the catecholamine aqueous solution may include various catecholamine derivatives. The catecholamine derivative may include at least one of dopamine, epinephrine, dopamine methacrylate, and / or tyramine. For example, the catecholamine aqueous solution may be a solution in which a single molecule including a catechol functional group and an amine monomer are mixed. The molar ratio of the single molecule and the amine monomer may be within a ratio of 1:0.5 to 1:10, preferably 1:0.8 to 1:1.5. For example, the catecholamine aqueous solution may include a polymeric material containing an amine group. The polymeric material may include at least one of polyethyleneimine (PEI), polyallylamine hydrochloride (PAH), chitosan, and / or vinylamine. For example, piperidine may be added to provide a basic catecholamine aqueous solution, but the present invention is not limited thereto.

[0098] For example, ceramic precursors may include silica precursors, alumina precursors, and / or boehmite. Additionally, an additional oxidizing agent may be added to activate the ceramic precursor. However, the embodiments supported in this disclosure are not limited thereto.

[0099] In process (703), a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursors may be coated on a base layer (e.g., a base layer (400) of FIG. 4) having pores (e.g., pores (410) of FIG. 5) formed therein. For example, the mixed solution may be coated on the base layer (400) by dipping the base layer (400) in the mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursors or by spraying the mixed solution onto the base layer (400). For example, additional plasma surface treatment or corona treatment may be performed to improve wettability between the base layer (400) and the mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursors, but the embodiments supported in the present disclosure are not limited thereto. For example, the thickness of the coating material (e.g., coating material (500) of FIG. 5) of the separation membrane (323) formed from a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursor can be changed by adjusting the concentration of the ceramic precursor and the coating time within the process (703).

[0100] In process (705), a separation membrane (323) may be manufactured by forming a coating material (500) on a base layer (400). For example, after the base layer (400) is coated with a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursor, byproducts or unreacted materials may be removed through additional processes. For example, after the base layer (400) is coated with a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursor, a coating material (500) may be formed on the base layer (400) through a drying process (e.g., heating or vacuum drying).

[0101] The separator (323) of the battery (300) according to the above-described embodiment includes a single layer structure in which a coating material (500) for protecting the base layer (400) is formed from a mixed solution of catecholamine and ceramic precursor, thereby simplifying the manufacturing process of the separator (323) and improving the performance of the battery (300).

[0102] As described above, the battery (e.g., battery (189) of FIG. 1, battery (300) of FIG. 3) may include a case (e.g., case (310) of FIG. 3), and an electrode assembly (e.g., electrode assembly (320) of FIG. 3) disposed within the case, the electrode assembly including a first electrode (e.g., first electrode (321) of FIG. 3), a second electrode (e.g., second electrode (322) of FIG. 3) configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode), and a separator (e.g., separator (323) of FIG. 3) disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The above separation membrane may include a base layer (e.g., the base layer (410) of FIG. 4, the base layer (530) of FIG. 5) including pores (e.g., pores (540) of FIG. 5), and a surface of the base layer (e.g., the surface (405) of FIG. 4, the surface (535) of FIG. 5)) and a coating material (e.g., the coating material (500) of FIG. 5) that has penetrated into the pores to cover the inner surface of each pore (e.g., the inner surface (540a) of FIG. 5). The coating material may include a polymer material including catecholamine (e.g., the polymer material (510) of FIG. 5), and ceramic particles (e.g., the ceramic particles (520) of FIG. 5) each having a size smaller than the size of each pore.

[0103] For example, the size of each of the ceramic particles may be within the nanoscale range.

[0104] For example, the polymer material and the ceramic particles can be combined to form a single layer.

[0105] For example, the polymer material can attach the ceramic particles to the surface of the base layer such that the ceramic particles are fixed to the surface of the base layer.

[0106] For example, the coating material may include a first portion (e.g., a first portion (501) in FIG. 5) coated on a first surface of the base layer (e.g., a first surface (400a) in FIG. 4), a second portion (e.g., a second portion (502) in FIG. 5) coated on a second surface of the base layer opposite to the first surface (e.g., a second surface (400b) in FIG. 4), and a third portion (e.g., a third portion (503) in FIG. 5) coated on the inner surface of each of the pores.

[0107] For example, at least a portion of said third portion may extend from said first portion to said second portion through at least some of said pores.

[0108] For example, the first portion of the coating material may be interposed between the first electrode and the base layer. The second portion of the coating material may be interposed between the second electrode and the base layer.

[0109] For example, the polymer material may form a polymer layer (e.g., polymer layer (610) of FIG. 6A) covering the surface of the base layer. The diameter of each of the ceramic particles (e.g., R of FIG. 6A) may be smaller than the thickness of the polymer layer (e.g., t of FIG. 6A) such that at least some of the ceramic particles are embedded in the polymer layer.

[0110] For example, the polymer material may form a polymer layer covering the surface of the base layer. The diameter of each of the ceramic particles may be greater than the thickness of the polymer layer so that the ceramic particles adhere to the surface of the polymer layer.

[0111] For example, the polymer material can form polymer particles (e.g., polymer particles (620) of FIG. 6c) that attach the ceramic particles to the surface of the base layer.

[0112] For example, the size of each of the pores may be in the range of 1 nm to 1 μm.

[0113] For example, the thickness of the polymer material may be in the range of 10 nm to 100 nm.

[0114] For example, the diameter of each of the ceramic particles may be within a range of 1 nm to 50 nm.

[0115] For example, the coating material can be formed from a mixed solution of ceramic precursors and polydopamine.

[0116] For example, the catecholamine of the polymer material may be norepinephrine or polydopamine.

[0117] An electronic device as described above may include an electronic component and a battery configured to supply power to the electronic component. The battery may include a case, and an electrode assembly disposed within the case, the electrode assembly including a first electrode, a second electrode configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The separator may include a base layer including pores, and a coating material coated on a surface of the base layer and penetrating into the interior of the pores to cover an inner surface of each of the pores. The coating material may include a polymer material including a catecholamine, and ceramic particles each having a size in a range of 1 nm to 1 μm.

[0118] For example, the polymer material and the ceramic particles can be combined to form a single layer.

[0119] For example, the coating material may include a first portion coated on a first side of the base layer, a second portion coated on a second side of the base layer opposite to the first side, and a third portion coated on an inner surface of each of the pores.

[0120] For example, the polymer material may form a polymer layer covering the surface of the base layer. The diameter of each of the ceramic particles may be smaller than the thickness of the polymer layer such that at least some of the ceramic particles are embedded within the polymer layer.

[0121] For example, the polymer material may form a polymer layer covering the surface of the base layer. The diameter of each of the ceramic particles may be greater than the thickness of the polymer layer so that the ceramic particles adhere to the surface of the polymer layer.

[0122] Electronic devices according to the various embodiments disclosed in this document may take various forms. Electronic devices may include, for example, portable communication devices (e.g., smartphones), computer devices, portable multimedia devices, portable medical devices, cameras, electronic devices, or home appliances. Electronic devices according to the embodiments of this document are not limited to the aforementioned devices.

[0123] The various embodiments of this document and the terminology used therein are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include various modifications, equivalents, or substitutes of the embodiments. In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components. The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more of the items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in the corresponding phrase among those phrases, or all possible combinations thereof. Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used merely to distinguish one component from another, and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order). When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as "coupled" or "connected" to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms "functionally" or "communicatively," it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0124] The term "module" used in various embodiments of this document may include a unit implemented in hardware, software, or firmware, and may be used interchangeably with terms such as logic, logic block, component, or circuit. A module may be an integral component, or a minimum unit or part of such a component that performs one or more functions. For example, according to one embodiment, a module may be implemented in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0125] Various embodiments of the present document may be implemented as software (e.g., a program (140)) including one or more instructions stored in a storage medium (e.g., an internal memory (136) or an external memory (138)) readable by a machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)). For example, a processor (e.g., a processor (120)) of the machine (e.g., an electronic device (101)) may call at least one instruction among the one or more instructions stored from the storage medium and execute it. This enables the machine to operate to perform at least one function according to the at least one called instruction. The one or more instructions may include code generated by a compiler or code executable by an interpreter. The machine-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, 'non-transitory' simply means that the storage medium is a tangible device and does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves), and the term does not distinguish between cases where data is stored semi-permanently or temporarily on the storage medium.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the method according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a commodity between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smart phones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0127] According to various embodiments, each component (e.g., a module or a program) of the above-described components may include one or more entities, and some of the entities may be separated and placed in other components. According to various embodiments, one or more components or operations of the aforementioned components may be omitted, or one or more other components or operations may be added. Alternatively or additionally, a plurality of components (e.g., a module or a program) may be integrated into a single component. In such a case, the integrated component may perform one or more functions of each of the plurality of components identically or similarly to those performed by the corresponding component among the plurality of components prior to the integration. According to various embodiments, the operations performed by a module, program, or other component may be executed sequentially, in parallel, iteratively, or heuristically, or one or more of the operations may be executed in a different order, omitted, or one or more other operations may be added.

Claims

1. Regarding the battery, case; and An electrode assembly is disposed within the case, and includes a first electrode, a second electrode configured to have a different polarity with respect to the first electrode, and a separator disposed between the first electrode and the second electrode. The above separator is, a base layer containing pores; and It is coated on the surface of the base layer and includes a coating material that has penetrated into the interior of the pores to cover the inner surface of each pore, The above coating material is, A polymeric substance containing catecholamine; and Each of the above pores comprises ceramic particles having a size smaller than the size of each pore. battery.

2. In paragraph 1, The size of each of the above ceramic particles is within the nanoscale range. battery.

3. In paragraph 1 or 2, The polymer material and the ceramic particles together form a single layer, battery.

4. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 3, The polymer material attaches the ceramic particles to the surface of the base layer so that the ceramic particles are fixed to the surface of the base layer. battery.

5. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 4, The above coating material is, A first portion coated on a first surface of the base layer; A second portion coated on a second side opposite to the first side of the base layer; and Including a third part coated on the inner surface of each of the above pores, battery.

6. In paragraph 5, At least a portion of said third portion extends from said first portion to said second portion through at least some of said pores, battery.

7. In paragraph 5, The first part of the above coating material, interposed between the first electrode and the base layer, The second part of the above coating material, interposed between the second electrode and the base layer, battery.

8. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 7, The above polymer material forms a polymer layer covering the surface of the base layer, The diameter (R) of each of the above ceramic particles is wherein at least some of the ceramic particles are embedded in the polymer layer, and the thickness (t) of the polymer layer is smaller than that of the polymer layer. battery.

9. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 8, The above polymer material forms a polymer layer covering the surface of the base layer, The diameter (R) of each of the above ceramic particles is The ceramic particles are attached to the surface of the polymer layer so that the thickness (t) of the polymer layer is greater than that of the polymer layer. battery.

10. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 9, The polymer material forms polymer particles that attach the ceramic particles to the surface of the base layer. battery.

11. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 10, The size of each of the above pores is within the range of 1 nm to 1 μm. battery.

12. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 11, The thickness (t) of the above polymer material is in the range of 10 nm to nm. battery.

13. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 12, The diameter (R) of each of the above ceramic particles is Within the range of 1 nm to 50 nm, battery.

14. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 13, The above coating material is, Formed from a mixed solution of ceramic precursors and polydopamine, battery.

15. In any one of paragraphs 1 to 14, The catecholamine of the above polymer material is, Norepinephrine or polydopamine, battery.

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