10087362Laser Assisted Surface Enhancements for Roll-to-roll processes - LASERClosedCollaborative R&DInnovate UKAvocet Battery Materials Ltd (ABM), Europe's first commercial producer of cell tabs for lithium-ion pouch cells, is developing a new laser-processing method for treating aluminium (Al), copper (Cu) and/or nickel-plated copper (NiCu) for use in their tab product. The current method uses a Cr-based surface treatment, which is banned for use in Europe under RoHS. ABM has partnered with The Manufacturing Technology Centre (MTC) to develop a conversion layer at the surface of the metal substrate using a laser process. The new laser process provides reliable bonding of the polypropylene to the tab, which is crucial for the performance of the cell. The project will focus on optimising the laser process and developing a high-throughput manufacturing process to validate applicability to commercial scale production. The ultimate goal of the project is to replace the current Cr-based surface treatment method, which is environmentally harmful, with a more sustainable, reliable and cost-effective laser processing method and therefore on-shoring of the supply chain for tab manufacture to the UK from Asia. The environmental impact of on-shoring the supply chain will result in a decrease of CO2 emissions caused directly from freight of material and tabs around the world from APAC countries. The development of this technology will benefit the UK battery manufacturing industry by providing a domestically-produced, environmentally-friendly and commercially unique alternative to the current method, enhancing the country's competitiveness in the global market. The Faraday Battery Challenge R6 call is an excellent opportunity for ABM and MTC to further develop the technology and drive their accelerated route-to-market for treatment of key industrial materials that will drive the UK battery industry and future economy.