The 'golden partner' of single-walled carbon nanotubes: How HNBR solves the dispersion problem of high-end conductive agents

With the evolution of lithium batteries towards high energy density and high rate performance, single-walled carbon nanotubes are becoming the preferred material for the next generation of conductive agents due to their excellent conductivity (theoretical conductivity can reach 10 ⁵ S/cm) and extremely high aspect ratio. However, the large-scale application of single-walled pipes faces a "roadblock" - the difficulty of dispersion.

The "nature" problem of single-walled pipes

Single walled carbon nanotubes have a huge specific surface area (>1000 m ²/g), and there is a strong van der Waals force between the tubes, making it easy to form tight bundle like aggregates. Traditional dispersants such as PVP can still cope in conventional systems, but in high-pressure fast charging scenarios, their insufficient electrochemical stability is gradually exposed - they are prone to oxidation and decomposition, swelling in the electrolyte, leading to the failure of the conductive network during cycling.

HNBR's' Golden Partner 'Effect

HNBR (hydrogenated nitrile rubber) is a special polymer, and the nitrile group (- CN) in its molecular structure has strong polarity, which can form a strong adsorption effect with the surface of carbon nanotubes; At the same time, its flexible molecular chains fully stretch in the solvent, forming steric hindrance and effectively preventing the secondary aggregation of CNTs.

More importantly, HNBR has excellent resistance to high pressure and electrolyte. In high-voltage systems above 4.5V, the HNBR molecular structure remains stable, ensuring the long-term integrity of the conductive network. This means that HNBR can not only "disperse well", but also "hold on" - which is the performance support urgently needed for the large-scale application of single-walled carbon nanotubes.

Chambroad Sinopoly Solution

We have launched a series of dispersant grades for the dispersion needs of single-walled carbon nanotubes, among which 3305 has been validated for its dispersion effect and stability in multiple customer systems. If you are struggling with the dispersion problem of single-walled pipes, please feel free to contact us for sample testing.