ELASTOSIL® CM 185 has been developed specifically as a potting compound for the vent and cell contacting system within lithium-ion batteries. Classified under RTV-2 silicone rubber compounds, it consists of a two-component silicone material that vulcanizes at room temperature. This pourable compound is applied using dispensing equipment.
ELASTOSIL® CM 185 is designed to be applied to the delicate vent and cell contacting system of battery packs. This self-adhesive condensation-curing formulation produces an electrically and thermally insulating elastomer with optimized mechanical properties. When used for potting, it forms a protective layer without compromising the vent’s functionality.
In the event of thermal runaway in a cell within a battery pack potted with ELASTOSIL® CM 185, the compound and vent relieve pressure, preventing escaping gases from affecting neighboring cells. This silicone effectively shields all other cells in the battery pack, blocking the thermal propagation path through the vent and cell contacting system that could lead to ignition of adjacent cells.
ELASTOSIL® CM 181 is another highlight introduced by WACKER at this year’s Battery Show. This addition-curing RTV-2 silicone rubber compound rapidly crosslinks into an elastomer at room temperature. With low viscosity and easy pourability, ELASTOSIL® CM 181 contains lightweight fillers that define its porous structure, reducing the density of the cured rubber and making it compressible. The compound also incorporates a heat-absorbing filler.
These properties make ELASTOSIL® CM 181 ideal for filling gaps between cells in battery packs or modules. Potting with this silicone isolates cells electrically and thermally, providing mechanical support and protection. It absorbs and mitigates vibrations, shocks, and thermal expansions of cells without subjecting the assembly to mechanical stress. Moreover, its thermal insulation properties impede heat transfer via cell sidewalls, enhancing the reliability of battery cell operation.
At the WACKER booth, alongside these potting compounds, additional silicone products targeting the battery and electric vehicle sectors will be showcased:
- Silicone resin binders for heat-resistant coatings on battery covers or fiber-based composite mats inserted between anode caps or safety valves and battery covers.
- Thermally conductive gap fillers and potting compounds for efficient thermal management of lithium-ion batteries and power electronics. These addition-curing silicone products facilitate effective thermal connectivity between components and temperature control systems.
- Silicone sealants tailored for various electromobility applications.
These innovations from WACKER demonstrate their commitment to advancing safety, efficiency, and performance in lithium-ion batteries and electric vehicles through cutting-edge silicone technology.
