What to know before you buy
This collection groups the battery components a research lab goes through when making electrodes and assembling test cells. It covers active materials, conductive additives, binders and solvents, current collector materials, solid electrolytes and cell hardware.
For cathodes, there is MSE PRO NMC 811 cathode powder, NMC622, LFP and a LiNbO3 coated NMC 811 from Ampcera for solid-state cells. Anodes cover natural graphite, hard carbon for lithium and sodium-ion work, and lithium chips. Conductive carbons include Super P, Super C65 and Ketjenblack EC600JD. Binders include PVDF binder with battery grade NMP for cathode slurries, CMC with SBR for water-based anode slurries, and PTFE.
Solid-state researchers can find Ampcera argyrodite Li6PS5Cl sulfide electrolyte, Ta-doped and Al-doped LLZO nano powders and a LAGP membrane. Cell hardware includes CR2032 cases and wave springs, aluminum laminated film for pouch cells, nickel foam and conductive carbon paper. Background on additives is in Electrolyte Additives for Battery Performance and Longevity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which binder should I use for my battery electrodes?
Most cathodes use PVDF dissolved in NMP, such as the MSE PRO PVDF binder with battery grade NMP. Graphite anodes often use a water-based CMC and SBR mix. PTFE binder suits dry electrode processing and some fuel cell and supercapacitor electrodes.
Which conductive carbon additive should I choose?
Super P is a common general-purpose carbon black. Super C65 is often used in both cathodes and anodes. Ketjenblack EC600JD has a very high surface area, so small amounts build a conductive network, which helps in lithium-sulfur and air electrodes. Many labs compare two carbons at the same loading.
What do I need to assemble a CR2032 coin cell?
You need a case, spacer and spring for each cell, plus electrodes, separator and electrolyte. The 304SS CR2032 case sets include all three hardware parts. For lithium half cells, 16 mm lithium chips act as the counter electrode.
Which solid electrolyte suits my solid-state cell?
Sulfide electrolytes such as argyrodite Li6PS5Cl have high ionic conductivity and press into dense layers at room temperature, but need dry, inert handling. Oxide garnets such as Ta-doped LLZO are more stable in air and are often sintered or used as polymer fillers. The LAGP membrane suits tests that need a ready-made ceramic separator.
Can I order battery materials in larger amounts?
Yes. For larger quantities of a listed material, use the bulk order request form. For a different composition, particle size or pack size, send your requirements through the quote request form.