TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Formosa Smart Energy, in collaboration with the Industrial Technology Research Institute, has developed dry electrode technology for lithium batteries as part of its effort to promote low-carbon manufacturing and green energy technologies, CNA reported.

Unlike the conventional wet process, which uses liquid solvents to create a thick paste called electrode slurry, the dry electrode technology significantly reduces solvent use. 

Traditional solvent-based lithium battery manufacturing is costly, energy-intensive, and relies on chemicals. Moreover, drying and solvent recovery can consume up to 50% of the total energy used in production, the company noted.

In contrast, the dry electrode process is simpler and more efficient. It mixes powders such as active materials, binders, and conductive agents, then presses them into thin films, skipping the energy-heavy drying step. This method helps lower costs and create a more sustainable manufacturing process.

Company Chair Sandy Wang (王瑞瑜) said the dry method streamlines production by removing solvent-related steps, reducing carbon emissions and chemical use.

The dry electrode technology is also crucial for developing solid-state batteries, Wang added. Since such batteries require high material density and precise interface structures, the dry process helps create more stable electrodes.

General Manager Liu Hui-chi (劉慧啟) added that dry electrode technology can be applied to lithium battery modules for EVs, energy storage systems, portable electronics, and power tools. With rising demand for EVs and energy storage, he urged Taiwan’s related supply chains to seize this chance and boost R&D efforts.