New Conductive Coatings from Acheson Improve Lithium-Ion Batteries and Hydrogen Fuel Cells

PORT HURON, Mich., Aug. 1, 2006 Acheson (www.achesonindustries.com) has introduced Dag® EB-023 and Dag EB-030, advanced new coatings for lithium-ion batteries. These new products provide highly conductive, tough, tenacious, chemical- and solvent-resistant coatings that withstand the environment inside polymer lithium-ion batteries. The coatings, which are one-component, solvent-based dispersions of semi-colloidal graphite in a thermoset binder, are also suited for PEM fuel cell applications for acid corrosion protection and for electrical conductivity enhancement of bipolar metal plates. When properly diluted, Dag EB-023 and Dag EB-030 can be applied by brush or spray and cured above 260 degrees C (500 degrees F) to form an adherent coating. The products provide excellent multi-metal adhesion properties that enable the use of aluminum or steel for design and cost flexibility. They also provide the current collector with protection from oxidation and corrosion, which enables the use of aggressive chemistries, reduces leakage, self-discharge and thermal discharge and extends battery shelf life. The resulting improvement in current-collector conductivity allows for the use of low-cost non-plated metals, and the high solvent-resistance properties of the products are well suited for lithium-ion battery environments. Acheson, a National Starch and Chemical business, is a global supplier of specialty electrical materials, specialty coatings, process lubricants and lubricant-application equipment. Acheson's products are utilized in countless applications in the electronics, automotive, aerospace, appliance, and other industries. Acheson has a global presence with facilities in Australia, Brazil, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Mexico, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, United Kingdom and the United States. Acheson's product trade names include Dag®, Molydag®, Emralon®, Aerodag® Electrodag®, SLA(TM), FGA(TM), Deltacast(TM), and Deltaforge(TM). Additional information about Acheson and its products is available at www.achesonindustries.com Editorial Contacts: Dave Manion 9086855395 dave.manion@nstarch.com Martin Torbert 9086855185 martin.torbert@nstarch.com