Heat-resistant member, method for manufacturing heat-resistant member, battery pack comprising same, and vehicle comprising same

Abstract

The present invention provides a heat-resistant member comprising: at least one inorganic heat-resistant layer; at least one adhesive layer; and an organic heat-resistant film, wherein the inorganic heat-resistant layer and the adhesive layer are alternately laminated to form a laminate, and the organic heat-resistant film is positioned at the outermost part of the laminate.

Description

Heat-resistant member, method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member, battery pack including the same, and automobile including the same

[0001] The present invention relates to a heat-resistant member, a method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile including the same.

[0002] This application claims the benefit of priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2025-0024474 filed February 25, 2025, and all contents disclosed in the document of said Korean patent application are incorporated herein as part of this specification.

[0003]

[0004] With the technological advancement and increasing demand for mobile devices, the demand for secondary batteries as an energy source is rapidly rising. While nickel-cadmium or nickel-hydrogen batteries were traditionally used, lithium-ion secondary batteries are now widely used because they exhibit almost no memory effect, allow for free charging and discharging, have a low self-discharge rate, and high energy density.

[0005] A lithium secondary battery comprises an electrode assembly in which a positive plate coated with a positive active material and a negative plate coated with a negative active material are arranged with a separator in between, and a battery case that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte. Due to the advantages of high operating voltage and excellent energy density, such lithium secondary batteries are being applied not only to electronic devices but also to large-capacity systems such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS).

[0006] However, since lithium secondary batteries use organic electrolytes, if overcurrent and overheating occur due to overcharging, external impact, or internal short circuits, it can lead to thermal runaway, and in severe cases, there is a problem of fire caused by explosion or ignition. In particular, in battery modules composed of multiple battery cells stacked together, and in battery pack structures housing multiple battery modules, there is a risk that abnormal behavior occurring in one battery cell or module will propagate to adjacent cells or modules.

[0007] If abnormal behavior originating from any battery module propagates to neighboring battery modules, thermal propagation can damage the battery module or the entire battery pack, or lead to complete combustion or explosion, making it difficult to ensure system stability. Therefore, structural measures capable of effectively preventing thermal propagation are urgently required.

[0008] Accordingly, a technology has been proposed to suppress heat diffusion by interposing a heat-insulating member made of mica between battery modules within a battery pack. Although mica can perform a certain level of heat insulation function due to its excellent heat resistance, there were problems in that it is difficult to improve surface properties and there are limitations in securing mechanical strength and adhesive reliability because it has a layered structure that causes it to easily peel off into thin layers.

[0009] Moreover, in recent high-energy density battery systems for electric vehicles and ESS, the amount of heat released and the intensity of the flame during thermal runaway have increased compared to the past, and as an environment is formed where high-temperature gas ejection and mechanical shock act in combination, there is an increasing need for components with enhanced heat resistance characteristics beyond simple heat insulation functions.

[0010] Furthermore, the required physical properties and suitable material characteristics vary depending on the placement of the heat-resistant member. For example, when interposed between battery modules, thermal insulation properties that effectively block flames and radiant heat to delay heat transfer are important; conversely, when applied between a battery module and a pack case, mechanical strength and structural support characteristics may be required. Moreover, in areas susceptible to external impact, such as the top of the pack, shock absorption properties may be required simultaneously with heat resistance.

[0011] Therefore, there is an increasing need for heat-resistant components with a structure that can secure enhanced heat resistance while simultaneously satisfying various required physical properties depending on the application location, moving beyond structures that rely on a single mica material as in the past.

[0012]

[0013] Designed to solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention aims to provide a heat-resistant member with excellent heat transfer prevention effect.

[0014] As another problem to be solved by the present invention, the present invention aims to provide a heat-resistant member having physicochemically stable surface characteristics at high temperatures and excellent surface adhesion.

[0015] As another problem to be solved by the present invention, the present invention aims to provide a battery pack with improved heat resistance and flame retardant effects and an automobile including the same.

[0016] To achieve these objectives, according to one aspect of the present invention, a heat-resistant member of the following embodiment, a method for manufacturing the heat-resistant member, a battery pack including the same, and an automobile including the same are provided.

[0017] According to a first embodiment, a heat-resistant member is provided, comprising at least one inorganic heat-resistant layer; at least one adhesive layer; and an organic heat-resistant film; wherein the inorganic heat-resistant layer and the adhesive layer are alternately laminated to form a laminate, and the organic heat-resistant film is positioned at the outermost edge of the laminate.

[0018] According to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the inorganic heat-resistant layer may include sheet-shaped mica.

[0019] According to the third embodiment, in the second embodiment, the inorganic heat-resistant layer may further comprise a heat-resistant epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a modified polyester resin, a silicone resin, a phenolic resin, a glass fiber, a polyester fiber, or two or more of these.

[0020] According to the fourth embodiment, in any one of the first to third embodiments, the adhesive layer may comprise a silicone resin, an epoxy resin, an acrylic resin, a sodium silicate, a potassium silicate, a lithium silicate, or two or more of these.

[0021] According to the fifth embodiment, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the organic heat-resistant film may comprise polyimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyetherimide, or two or more of these.

[0022] According to the 6th embodiment, in any one of the 1st to 5th embodiments, the thickness of the inorganic heat-resistant layer may be within the range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, the thickness of the adhesive layer may be within the range of 0.005 mm to 0.02 mm, and the thickness of the organic heat-resistant film may be within the range of 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm.

[0023] According to the seventh embodiment, in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, a shock-absorbing member may be further included, disposed on the organic heat-resistant film and comprising silicone foam, polyurethane foam, or both.

[0024] According to the eighth embodiment, in the seventh embodiment, the thickness of the shock-absorbing member may be within the range of 10 mm to 50 mm.

[0025] According to the ninth embodiment, a method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member is provided, comprising a pressurizing step of pressurizing a laminate in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated and an organic heat-resistant film is located on the outermost layer at a temperature range of 100°C to 250°C.

[0026] According to the 10th embodiment, in the 9th embodiment, the pressurization step is 2 kg / cm² 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 It may be performed under pressure.

[0027] According to the 11th embodiment, a battery pack is provided comprising: a plurality of battery modules in which a plurality of battery cells are stacked; a pack case in which the plurality of battery modules are housed; and a heat-resistant member interposed between the plurality of battery modules or between the battery modules and the pack case, wherein the heat-resistant member is according to any one of the 1st to 6th embodiments.

[0028] According to the 12th embodiment, in the 11th embodiment, the pack case comprises: a lower frame on which the plurality of battery modules are seated; a side frame extending upward from the edge of the lower frame; an inner frame extending upward within the lower frame and coupled to the side frame; a partition frame coupled to the inner frame and interposed between the plurality of battery modules; and an upper frame spaced apart from the inner frame and coupled to the side frame, wherein the heat-resistant member may be installed on the partition frame.

[0029] According to the 13th embodiment, in the 12th embodiment, the upper frame further comprises an upper heat-resistant member, and the upper heat-resistant member may be according to any one of the 7th to 8th embodiments.

[0030] According to the 14th embodiment, a vehicle comprising a battery pack according to any one of the 11th to 13th embodiments is provided.

[0031]

[0032] According to one aspect of the present invention, the heat-resistant member of the present invention may have excellent heat transfer prevention and flame retardant effects.

[0033] According to one aspect of the present invention, the heat-resistant member of the present invention has physicochemically stable surface characteristics at high temperatures, and may have excellent surface adhesion.

[0034] According to one aspect of the present invention, the heat-resistant member of the present invention solves the problem of reduced adhesion caused by surface crumbling, roughness, etc., of conventional heat-resistant members, thereby enabling excellent surface adhesion and stable surface characteristics. As a result, even if thermal runaway phenomena occur inside a battery cell or battery pack, the heat-resistant member can maintain its shape and exhibit excellent surface adhesion.

[0035] According to one aspect of the present invention, the battery pack and automobile of the present invention may have excellent heat transfer prevention and flame retardant effects.

[0036] According to one aspect of the present invention, the method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member of the present invention does not require additional processes such as surface processing of a separate inorganic heat-resistant layer, and by further including a process of adding an organic heat-resistant film to a conventional manufacturing process, the productivity and physical properties of the manufactured heat-resistant member can be excellent.

[0037]

[0038] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and serve to further enhance understanding of the technical concept of the present invention together with the aforementioned description; therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited only to the matters described in such drawings.

[0039] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a heat-resistant member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a heat-resistant member according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 3 is a partially separated perspective view of a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module included in the battery pack of Figure 3.

[0043] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle including a battery pack according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044]

[0045] Terms and words used in this specification and claims shall not be interpreted as being limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but shall be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the invention, based on the principle that the inventor can appropriately define the concept of the terms to best describe his invention.

[0046] The terms used in this specification are used merely to describe exemplary embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0047] <Definition>

[0048] In the present specification, when a part is described as 'comprising' a certain component, this means that, unless specifically stated otherwise, it does not exclude other components but may include additional components.

[0049] In this specification, the terms "combination" or "connection" include not only cases where one member and another member are directly combined or directly connected, but also cases where one member is indirectly combined or indirectly connected to another member through a connecting member.

[0050] In the present specification, the "thickness" of each layer included in the electrode may represent a value measured by a known method for measuring thickness. The method of measuring thickness is not limited to, for example, a value measured using a thickness gauge (Mitutoyo, VL-50S-B).

[0051] In this specification, the words 'left', 'right', 'up', and 'down' may indicate directions in the drawings from which reference is made and should not be limited. These terms include the words listed above, their derivatives, and words of similar meaning.

[0052]

[0053] Heat-resistant component

[0054] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a heat-resistant member (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0055] A heat-resistant member (10) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises at least one inorganic heat-resistant layer (11); at least one adhesive layer (12); and an organic heat-resistant film (13); wherein the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and the adhesive layer (12) are alternately laminated to form a laminate, and the organic heat-resistant film (13) is located at the outermost edge of the laminate.

[0056] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may comprise sheet-shaped mica. The mica may have stability at high temperatures and high thermal insulation properties due to its structural stability.

[0057] In one embodiment of the present invention, the sheet-shaped mica may comprise muscovite, biotite, phlogopite, or a combination thereof. For example, the mica may comprise at least 85 weight percent of muscovite, biotite, phlogopite, or a combination thereof relative to 100 weight percent.

[0058] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer may comprise a heat-resistant epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a modified polyester resin, a silicone resin, a phenolic resin, a glass fiber, a polyester fiber, or two or more of these.

[0059] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer may further comprise a silicone epoxy resin or binder resin having high temperature heat resistance, for example, a heat-resistant epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a modified polyester resin, a silicone resin, a phenolic resin, or two or more of these. The resin may be included in an amount of 15 weight% or less relative to 100 weight%.

[0060] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer may further include fibers having high temperature resistance, for example, glass fibers or polyester fibers, or two or more of these.

[0061] In one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may be within the range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm or 0.12 mm to 0.18 mm. If the thickness of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) is less than the lower limit, the heat resistance and flame retardant performance of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may be low; if it exceeds the upper limit, cracks may occur in the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11), and to obtain a high thickness, the polymer resin content included in the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may increase, thereby degrading the heat resistance properties. Furthermore, if it excessively exceeds the upper limit, it may be difficult to manufacture the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11). Meanwhile, as described below, the thickness of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) is 2 kg / cm² 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 It may be measured after a pressurization step is performed for 1 to 90 seconds, or 30 to 60 seconds, at the pressure.

[0062] In one embodiment of the present invention, when the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) includes heat-resistant fibers such as glass fibers or polyester fibers, the heat-resistant fibers may have a thickness of 0.03 to 0.05 mm.

[0063] In one embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive layer (12) may comprise silicone resin, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, sodium silicate, potassium silicate, lithium silicate, or two or more of these.

[0064] In one embodiment of the present invention, the adhesive layer (12) is applied on the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and then cured by a post-processing step such as heating and drying in a predetermined temperature range, for example, 70°C to 250°C or 150°C to 200°C, so that a plurality of inorganic heat-resistant layers (11) can be bonded together.

[0065] In one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the adhesive layer (12) may be within the range of 0.005 mm to 0.02 mm or 0.007 mm to 0.018 mm. When the thickness range of the adhesive layer (12) satisfies the above-described range, the adhesive strength between the inorganic heat-resistant layers (11) or between the inorganic heat-resistant layers (11) and the organic heat-resistant film (13) can be maintained even at high temperatures.

[0066] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and the adhesive layer (12) are alternately laminated to form a laminate, and the total thickness of the laminate may be 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm or 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. The thickness is 2 kg / cm² as described below. 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 It may be measured after a pressurization step is performed for 1 to 90 seconds, or 30 to 60 seconds, at the pressure.

[0067] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may be sheet-shaped mica, and the sheet-shaped mica may include muscovite, biotite, or phlogopite. Since excessively increasing the thickness of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may cause problems such as a decrease in the heat resistance characteristics and mechanical properties of the laminate, the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and the adhesive layer (12) having a predetermined thickness may be alternately laminated to manufacture the product.

[0068] Meanwhile, if the thickness of the laminate is less than the lower limit, the prevention of heat transfer may not be sufficient, and if the thickness of the laminate exceeds the upper limit, it may occupy a large amount of space within the battery pack, which may reduce energy density.

[0069] In one embodiment of the present invention, the organic heat-resistant film (13) is not limited to being a polymer that undergoes little deformation of its dimensions and shape at high temperatures. For example, the organic heat-resistant film (13) may be polyimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyetherimide, or may comprise two or more of these. The organic heat-resistant film (13) may be a film that can be called a plastic film. The plastic film undergoes little deformation at high temperatures and does not shrink, for example, even at 200°C.

[0070] In one embodiment of the present invention, the organic heat-resistant film (13) may be laminated to the outermost layer of a laminate in which the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and the adhesive layer (12) are alternately laminated, through another adhesive layer (12). For example, the adhesive layer (12) may be formed on the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) of the laminate, and the organic heat-resistant film (13) may be further positioned thereon.

[0071] In one embodiment of the present invention, the organic heat-resistant film (13) may be a polymer film with excellent heat resistance that does not shrink at a temperature of 200°C or higher or 300°C or higher. As described below, when such an organic heat-resistant film (13) is used, the organic heat-resistant film (13) does not deform during the high-temperature pressurization step for manufacturing the heat-resistant member (10). Therefore, the heat-resistant member (10) can be manufactured by additionally laminating the organic heat-resistant film (13) onto a laminate in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and an adhesive layer (12) are alternately laminated, and then applying high-temperature pressurization. Furthermore, since the organic heat-resistant film (13) is physically and chemically stable even at high temperatures, it may have excellent surface properties.

[0072] In one embodiment of the present invention, the thickness of the organic heat-resistant film (13) may be within the range of 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm or 0.03 mm to 0.08 mm. By satisfying the above-described range, the effect of preventing heat transfer within the battery pack may be more excellent, while the change in surface characteristics of the heat-resistant member at high temperatures may be minimal. Meanwhile, as described below, the thickness of the organic heat-resistant film (13) is 2 kg / cm² 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 It may be measured after a pressurization step is performed for 1 to 90 seconds, or 30 to 60 seconds, at the pressure.

[0073] FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a cross-section of a heat-resistant member (10') according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0074] In another embodiment of the present invention, the heat-resistant member (10') is disposed on the organic heat-resistant film (13) and may further include a shock-absorbing member (14) comprising silicone foam, polyurethane foam, or both. By including the shock-absorbing member (14), vibrations and shocks within the battery pack can be cushioned.

[0075] The shock-absorbing member (14) can be manufactured by making a silicone foam or polyurethane foam into separate layers and attaching and fixing them on the adhesive layer (12), or by bonding a polyurethane foam foam on the adhesive layer (12) to the organic heat-resistant film (13) through the adhesive layer (12).

[0076] The thickness of the shock-absorbing member (14) may be within the range of 10 mm to 50 mm or 10 mm to 40 mm. If the thickness of the shock-absorbing member (14) satisfies the above-described range, the phenomenon of the inorganic heat-resistant layer lifting between battery modules due to vibration and shock within the battery pack can be prevented.

[0077] The thickness of the heat-resistant member (10), excluding the shock-absorbing member, may be in the range of 0.3 mm to 2 mm, 0.7 mm to 1.5 mm, or 0.8 mm to 1.2 mm. If the above numerical range is satisfied, the shock absorption and heat resistance effects may be even better.

[0078] The above heat-resistant member (10) is distinguished from pads used as buffers between cells and can be attached to the outermost surface of a battery module combining cells to delay heat transfer. Since the above heat-resistant member (10) includes an inorganic heat-resistant layer (11), the heat insulation performance between battery modules can be enhanced. Since the above heat-resistant member (10) includes an organic heat-resistant film (13), it can maintain adhesion at high temperatures during thermal runaway. If the above shock-absorbing member (14) is also included, a vibration / shock cushioning function within the battery pack is added, and the phenomenon of the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) lifting off the battery module can be prevented.

[0079]

[0080] Method for manufacturing heat-resistant components

[0081] The present invention provides a method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member.

[0082] The method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member of the present invention includes a pressurizing step in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and an adhesive layer (12) are alternately laminated, and an organic heat-resistant film (13) is located on the outermost layer, is pressed in a temperature range of 100°C to 250°C.

[0083] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pressurized temperature range may be within the range of 100°C to 250°C or 130°C to 200°C.

[0084] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) may be prepared as mica paper by grinding muscovite, biotite, phlogopite, or a combination thereof into a powder form and then fusion at high temperature as described above. The inorganic heat-resistant layer may contain 85% to 95% by weight of muscovite, biotite, phlogopite, or a combination thereof relative to 100% by weight.

[0085] In one embodiment of the present invention, the mica paper may further include a silicone epoxy resin or binder resin having high temperature resistance, for example, a heat-resistant epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a modified polyester resin, a silicone resin, a phenolic resin, or two or more of these.

[0086] Specifically, the step of preparing the mica paper may include the following steps.

[0087] The above muscovite, biotite, phlogopite, or a combination thereof can be ground by dry or wet milling to produce mica chips. At this time, the mica chips may have a length in the range of 12 mm to 25 mm and a thickness in the range of 2 mm to 10 mm.

[0088] Afterwards, the mica chip can be washed using a reaction solution, such as an aqueous solution containing sodium ions, and impurities inside the mica chip can be removed.

[0089] Afterward, the raw material from which impurities have been removed may be heat-treated in a temperature range of 700°C to 1,000°C to liquefy it, and then subjected to a bleaching step. The liquefied mica chip mixture produced in this way can be mixed and then subjected to a pulping process such as rolling to produce sheet-shaped mica.

[0090] Afterward, the thin mica sheet can be dried and wound to produce mica in the form of a roll.

[0091] Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present invention, when molding the crushed inorganic heat-resistant layer, a binder such as a heat-resistant epoxy resin, polyester resin, modified polyester resin, silicone resin, phenolic resin, etc., and a heat-resistant fiber such as a glass fiber or a polyester fiber may be further included.

[0092] Afterwards, an inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) can be manufactured by including an additional step of cutting the mica paper.

[0093] Meanwhile, a laminate can be manufactured by applying an adhesive layer (12) to the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) manufactured in this manner, and then laminating another inorganic heat-resistant layer (11). At this time, in one embodiment of the present invention, after applying an adhesive layer (12) on the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and laminating another inorganic heat-resistant layer (11), the method may further include a step of curing the adhesive by heating and drying in a temperature range of 70°C to 200°C. By doing so, the bonding force between the inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) and the adhesive layer (12) is further strengthened, and heat fusion can be made easier in a semi-cured state.

[0094] In one embodiment of the present invention, the step of applying an adhesive layer (12) once more and then laminating an organic heat-resistant film (13) on a laminate having an inorganic heat-resistant layer (11) on the outermost layer may be further included.

[0095] Subsequently, a heat-resistant member can be manufactured by applying pressure to the laminate produced in this manner at a temperature range of 100°C to 250°C or 130°C to 200°C to produce a heat-resistant member through thermal fusion. The thermal fusion can be performed using a device such as a hot press. Such thermal fusion corresponds to a high-temperature, high-pressure forming process.

[0096] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pressurization step is 2 kg / cm² 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 It may be performed under pressure.

[0097] In one embodiment of the present invention, the pressurization step may be performed for 1 second to 90 seconds, or 30 seconds to 60 seconds.

[0098] Afterwards, a cutting process may be further included, such as cutting the edges of the manufactured heat-resistant member.

[0099] In this way, when heat-fusing a laminate including an organic heat-resistant film, there is a process advantage compared to a method in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated and then a PET film is attached or a glue coating is applied, as additional processes such as surface grinding are omitted. After the inorganic heat-resistant layer is heat-fused, the adhesion of other films to the surface of the inorganic heat-resistant layer decreases; therefore, to attach a PET film to the surface of the heat-fused inorganic heat-resistant layer, an additional process is required to improve adhesion by treating the heat-fused inorganic heat-resistant layer with surface grinding. Furthermore, since the glue coating on the surface of the heat-fused inorganic heat-resistant layer is susceptible to high temperature and high pressure, a post-attachment process is required. According to one embodiment of the present invention, an organic film is attached before heat-fusion of the inorganic heat-resistant layer, and the laminate is heat-fused in one step with the organic film attached. Consequently, not only is surface grinding for increased adhesion unnecessary, but post-attachment processes to withstand high temperature and high pressure are also eliminated, resulting in savings in time, cost, and process efficiency.

[0100]

[0101] Battery Pack

[0102] The present invention provides a battery pack (1000).

[0103] FIG. 3 is a partially separated perspective view of a battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a battery module (100) included in the battery pack (1000) of FIG. 3.

[0104] The battery pack (1000) of the present invention comprises a plurality of battery modules (100) in which a plurality of battery cells (110) are stacked; a pack case (200) in which the plurality of battery modules (100) are housed; and a heat-resistant member (10) interposed between the plurality of battery modules. At this time, the heat-resistant member (10) may be the heat-resistant member (10) described above.

[0105] Referring to FIG. 3, a battery pack (1000) according to one embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a plurality of battery modules (100) and a pack case (200).

[0106] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery pack (1000) may further comprise a blocking cover (300).

[0107] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery module (100) may be provided in multiple numbers and arranged in various ways. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, it may be arranged in horizontal and vertical directions, but is not limited thereto.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 4, the battery module (100) may have a plurality of battery cells (110) and a module case (120).

[0109] In one embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of battery cells (110) may be stacked together. The battery cells (110) may have various structures, and the plurality of battery cells (110) may also be stacked in various ways.

[0110] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (110) may have a structure in which a plurality of unit cells arranged in the order of positive plate-separator-negative plate or bi-cells arranged in the order of positive plate-separator-negative plate-separator-positive plate-separator-negative plate are stacked according to the battery capacity.

[0111] In one embodiment of the present invention, the battery cell (110) may be provided with electrode leads. The electrode leads may be made of a conductive material and serve as a type of terminal that is exposed to the outside and connected to an external device. The electrode leads may include a positive electrode lead and a negative electrode lead.

[0112] In one embodiment of the present invention, the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead may be positioned opposite to each other with respect to the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110), or the positive electrode lead and the negative electrode lead may be positioned in the same direction with respect to the longitudinal direction of the battery cell (110).

[0113] In one embodiment of the present invention, the connector element may include various types of electrical connection components or connection members for connecting to a BMS (Battery Management System, not shown), for example, which can provide data on the voltage or temperature of a battery cell (110).

[0114] In one embodiment of the present invention, the terminal element includes a positive terminal and a negative terminal as a main terminal connected to the battery cell (110). The terminal element may be electrically connected to the outside by being equipped with a terminal bolt. Meanwhile, the battery cell (110) may have various shapes.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 4, the plurality of battery cells (110) can be stacked and stored in the module case (120). The module case (120) surrounds the plurality of battery cells (110) and thereby protects the battery cells (110) from external vibrations or shocks.

[0116] In one embodiment of the present invention, the module case (120) may be formed in a shape corresponding to the shape of a stack of multiple battery cells (110). For example, if the stack of multiple battery cells (110) is formed in a cuboid shape, the module case (120) may also be formed in a cuboid shape to correspond thereto. However, it is not limited thereto. Here, the module case (120) may include an upper module case, a lower module case, and a side module case.

[0117] In one embodiment of the present invention, the module case (120) may be manufactured, for example, by bending a metal plate, thereby allowing the module case (120) to be manufactured as a single unit. When the module case (120) is manufactured as a single unit, the joining process becomes simpler and more streamlined. Alternatively, the module case (120) may be provided as a separate unit and joined by welding or the like. However, the material of the module case (120) is not limited to metal.

[0118] In one embodiment of the present invention, referring to FIG. 3, a plurality of battery modules (100) may be housed in a pack case (200). The pack case (200) may be configured to include, for example, a lower frame (210), a side frame (220), an inner frame (230), a partition frame (240), and an upper frame (250).

[0119] In one embodiment of the present invention, the lower frame (210) may be configured to accommodate a plurality of battery modules (100). The lower frame (210) may be formed in the shape of a square plate, but is not limited thereto. The lower frame (210) may form the bottom portion of the pack case (200).

[0120] In one embodiment of the present invention, the side frame (220) may be configured to extend upward from the edge of the lower frame (210). The side frame (220) defines the height of the pack case (200) and forms a pre-set space between it and the lower frame (210). A plurality of battery modules (100) are seated in the space between the side frame (220) and the lower frame (210). The side frame (220) may include a relatively long side frame (220a) and a relatively short side frame (220b).

[0121] In one embodiment of the present invention, the inner frame (230) extends upward within the lower frame (210) and is coupled to the side frame (220). One or more inner frames (230) may be provided, and a plurality of battery modules (100) may be arranged facing each other with respect to the inner frame (230). The inner frame (230) is arranged in the same direction as the short side frame (220b).

[0122] In one embodiment of the present invention, a partition frame (240) is coupled to an inner frame (230). Here, the partition frame (240) is positioned in the same direction as the long side frame (220a). The partition frame (240) is interposed between a plurality of battery modules (100). In FIG. 3, one partition frame (240) is positioned between two adjacent battery modules (100), but this is not limited thereto. Here, referring to FIG. 3, a heat-resistant member (10) is installed in the partition frame (240).

[0123] In one embodiment of the present invention, the upper frame (250) may be spaced apart from the inner frame (230) and coupled to the side frame (220).

[0124] Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present invention, the upper frame (250) may further be provided with an upper heat-resistant member (10'), and the upper heat-resistant member (10') may further be provided with a shock-absorbing member (14). As the upper heat-resistant member (10') is provided on the upper frame, vibrations and shocks within the battery pack can be cushioned.

[0125] FIG. 5 is a drawing for explaining a vehicle (V) including a battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0126] Referring to FIG. 5, a vehicle (V) according to one embodiment of the present invention may include one or more battery packs (1000) according to each of the above embodiments. Here, the vehicle (V) includes various vehicles configured to use electricity, such as, for example, electric vehicles or hybrid vehicles.

[0127]

[0128] The present invention will be described in more detail below through examples, but the following examples are intended to illustrate the invention and the scope of the invention is not limited thereto.

[0129] <Example 1>

[0130] An inorganic heat-resistant layer was prepared by crushing muscovite and biotite into a powder form and then fusing them at a high temperature to form a sheet-shaped mica. An adhesive layer was applied onto the inorganic heat-resistant layer, and an inorganic heat-resistant layer was alternately laminated onto the coated surface to form a laminate. Subsequently, a polyimide-based organic heat-resistant film was laminated onto the outermost layer of the laminate, and then at a temperature of 180°C at 10 kg / cm² 2 A heat-resistant member was manufactured by applying pressure for 5 seconds. At this time, the total thickness of the laminate was 1.0 mm, and the thickness of each inorganic heat-resistant layer was 0.15 mm.

[0131]

[0132] <Comparative Example 1>

[0133] In the above Example 1, the procedure was carried out in the same manner as Example 1, except that a laminate comprising an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer was formed without an organic heat-resistant film.

[0134]

[0135] [Experimental Example 1]

[0136] For the heat-resistant members according to Example 1 and Comparative Example 1 above, a 180° peel test was performed at a speed of 300 mm / min in accordance with ASTM D 3330 to evaluate the adhesion between the PET film and the heat-resistant member. Specifically, after attaching an adhesive tape to the test specimen and stabilizing it at room temperature for 30 minutes, a peel test was performed in the 180° direction using a universal testing machine (UTM).

[0137] As a result, in the case of Comparative Example 1, a phenomenon was observed where the mica powder peeled off from the surface layer and detached along with the tape. On the other hand, in the heat-resistant member according to Example 1, an organic heat-resistant film was formed on the outermost layer, so surface stability was maintained and no peeling of mica occurred. Through this, it was confirmed that the heat-resistant member of the present invention effectively suppresses the decrease in adhesive reliability caused by mica surface peeling.

[0138]

[0139] <Comparative Example 2>

[0140] In the above Example 1, a heat-resistant member according to Comparative Example 2 was manufactured in the same manner as Example 1, except that the total thickness of the laminate was manufactured to be 0.6 mm.

[0141]

[0142] [Experimental Example 2]

[0143] After applying the heat-resistant members according to Example 1 and Comparative Example 2 to the battery modules, respectively, a thermal propagation test (Thermal Propagation, TP test) was performed. Specifically, an external heat source was applied to one module to induce thermal runaway, and the time of heat transfer to the adjacent module and the time of secondary ignition were measured.

[0144] As a result, in Comparative Example 2, where the total thickness of the laminate is 0.6 mm, the time for heat transfer to the adjacent module was measured to be approximately 8 minutes and 48 seconds. On the other hand, in Example 1, where the total thickness of the laminate is 1.0 mm, the time for heat transfer to the adjacent module was measured to be approximately 28 minutes and 30 seconds, confirming that it was significantly delayed compared to Comparative Example 2.

[0145] In other words, it was found that as the number of layers increases and the thickness of the laminate increases, the thermal insulation performance improves, effectively delaying secondary ignition to adjacent modules.

[0146]

[0147] <Comparative Example 3>

[0148] A heat-resistant member was manufactured with a structure comprising flame-retardant polyurethane foam and a single layer of mica. Specifically, a mica sheet with a thickness of 0.2 mm, identical to that of Example 1, was laminated onto a flame-retardant PU foam with a thickness of 0.8 mm through an adhesive layer to form a structure with a total thickness of approximately 1.0 mm.

[0149]

[0150] [Experimental Example 3]

[0151] For the heat-resistant member according to Example 1 (structure in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated) and the heat-resistant member according to Comparative Example 3 (PU foam + single-layer mica structure), the thermal conductivity was measured according to ASTM D-5470 standards.

[0152] As a result, the thermal conductivity of the heat-resistant member according to Example 1 was measured to be 0.3 W / m·K or less, and the thermal conductivity of the heat-resistant member according to Comparative Example 3 was measured to be 0.35 W / m·K or less. That is, Example 1, which has a structure in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated, showed lower thermal conductivity compared to Comparative Example 3, which includes flame-retardant PU foam and single-layer mica, confirming that it has excellent thermal insulation performance.

[0153] This is interpreted to be due to the structural characteristics of the structure of Example 1, in which a plurality of inorganic heat-resistant layers and adhesive layers are repeatedly stacked to block heat transfer paths in multiple stages. On the other hand, in the case of Comparative Example 3, although the PU foam can perform shock absorption functions, it is determined that the thermal resistance path is limited in terms of heat blocking due to the single-layer mica structure.

[0154]

[0155] Although the present invention has been described above by means of limited embodiments and drawings, the present invention is not limited thereto, and it is obvious that various modifications and variations are possible within the scope of the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the claims set forth below by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Therefore, the embodiments disclosed above should be considered in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense. That is, the scope of the true technical spirit of the present invention is indicated in the claims, and all variations within the equivalent scope thereof should be interpreted as being included in the present invention.

[0156]

[0157] [Explanation of the symbol]

[0158] 10: Heat-resistant member, 10': Upper heat-resistant member, 11: Inorganic heat-resistant layer, 12: Adhesive layer, 13: Organic heat-resistant film, 14: Shock-absorbing member, 100: Battery module, 110: Battery cell, 120: Module case, 200: Pack case, 210: Lower frame, 220: Side frame, 220a: Long side frame, 220b: Short side frame, 230: Inner frame, 240: Bulkhead frame, 250: Upper frame. 300: Shielding cover, 1000: Battery pack, V: Automotive

Claims

1. At least one inorganic heat-resistant layer; At least one adhesive layer; and Includes an organic heat-resistant film; A heat-resistant member characterized in that the above-mentioned inorganic heat-resistant layer and adhesive layer are alternately laminated to form a laminate, and an organic heat-resistant film is located at the outermost edge of the laminate.

2. In Claim 1, A heat-resistant member characterized by the above-mentioned inorganic heat-resistant layer comprising sheet-shaped mica.

3. In Claim 2, A heat-resistant member characterized by the above-described inorganic heat-resistant layer comprising a heat-resistant epoxy resin, a polyester resin, a modified polyester resin, a silicone resin, a phenolic resin, a glass fiber, a polyester fiber, or two or more of these.

4. In Claim 1, A heat-resistant member characterized in that the adhesive layer comprises silicone resin, epoxy resin, acrylic resin, sodium silicate, potassium silicate, lithium silicate, or two or more of these.

5. In Claim 1, The above-described organic heat-resistant film is a heat-resistant member characterized by comprising polyimide, polyethylene naphthalate, polyetheretherketone, polyphenylene sulfide, polyetherimide, or two or more of these.

6. In Claim 1, The thickness of the above-mentioned inorganic heat-resistant layer is within the range of 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, and The thickness of the adhesive layer is within the range of 0.005 mm to 0.02 mm, respectively. A heat-resistant member characterized in that the thickness of the organic heat-resistant film is within the range of 0.01 mm to 0.1 mm.

7. In Claim 1, It is disposed on the above organic heat-resistant film, and A heat-resistant member characterized by further comprising a shock-absorbing member including silicone foam, polyurethane foam, or both.

8. In Claim 7, A heat-resistant member characterized in that the thickness of the shock-absorbing member is within the range of 10 mm to 50 mm.

9. A method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member comprising a pressurizing step of pressurizing a laminate in which an inorganic heat-resistant layer and an adhesive layer are alternately laminated, and an organic heat-resistant film is located on the outermost layer, at a temperature range of 100°C to 250°C.

10. In Claim 9, The above pressurization step is 2 kg / cm² 2 Up to 20 kg / cm² 2 A method for manufacturing a heat-resistant member characterized by being performed under pressure.

11. Multiple battery modules in which multiple battery cells are stacked; A pack case in which the above plurality of battery modules are housed; and It includes a heat-resistant member interposed between the plurality of battery modules or between the battery modules and the pack case, A battery pack characterized in that the heat-resistant member is in accordance with any one of claims 1 to 6.

12. In Claim 11, The above pack case is, A lower frame on which the above plurality of battery modules are mounted; A side frame extending upward from the edge of the lower frame; An inner frame extending upward from within the lower frame and coupled to the side frame; A partition frame coupled to the inner frame and interposed between the plurality of battery modules; and It includes an upper frame spaced apart from the inner frame and coupled to the side frame, A battery pack characterized in that the above-mentioned heat-resistant member is installed in the above-mentioned bulkhead frame.

13. In Claim 12, The above upper frame further comprises an upper heat-resistant member, and A battery pack characterized by the upper heat-resistant member according to claim 7.

14. An automobile comprising a battery pack according to claim 11.

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