Battery development does not always fit within standard specifications. New cell designs and demanding applications can require different materials, unusual geometries, or components designed specifically around a particular performance requirement.
At the Avocet Research Centre, we work with customers to explore these less conventional requirements, developing and evaluating pouch cell tabs that go beyond standard designs.
When a Standard Tab Isn’t the Answer
Copper and aluminium are commonly used for pouch cell tabs, but they are not the only options. ARC is currently working with alternative materials and developing tabs with non-standard shapes and dimensions, including molybdenum, stainless steel, and titanium.
The reasons for choosing these materials can vary considerably depending on the application. Electrical performance, corrosion resistance, mechanical properties, weight, temperature requirements, and compatibility with other cell materials can all influence the final design.
Testing Unconventional Ideas
Choosing an alternative material is only the beginning. Its interaction with the polymer, pouch film, joining process, and other components must also be understood.
The Avocet Research Centre can support this process through material evaluation, feasibility studies, prototyping, testing, and optimisation. This allows customers to investigate whether an unconventional concept can become a practical component before moving towards manufacture.
Tabs Designed Around the Application
The same applies to geometry. A particular cell architecture may require a tab with an unusual shape, thickness, width, or material combination. Rather than adapting the application around an existing tab, ARC can investigate a solution around the requirements of the cell. For developers working on new battery technologies, this flexibility provides the opportunity to test ideas that may not be possible with standard off-the-shelf components.
Have an Unusual Tab Requirement?
From molybdenum and titanium to stainless steel and non-standard geometries, we’re interested in the battery challenges that require a different approach.
If your project requires a pouch cell tab that doesn’t fit the usual specification, get in touch with the ARC team to discuss what could be developed and tested for your application.
