Collagen-Derived Additives in Electrolytic Copper Foil (ECF) for EV Battery Applications

As electric vehicle adoption accelerates, lithium-ion battery performance and durability have become critical focus areas. One essential component in EV batteries is Electrolytic Copper Foil (ECF), used as the anode current collector. Collagen-derived peptides are applied as bio-based leveling and grain-refining additives during ECF production, helping to achieve uniform copper deposition, improved mechanical strength, and enhanced battery reliability.

The Role of Copper Foil in EV Batteries

Electrolytic copper foil plays a vital role in lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles.

Key functions include:

Anode Current Collector:
Copper foil serves as the conductive base that collects and transfers electrons during battery charging and discharging cycles.

Mechanical Support:
The foil must maintain structural integrity under repeated expansion and contraction of active battery materials.

Electrical Efficiency:
Uniform thickness and smooth surface quality are essential to reduce resistance and improve overall battery performance.

As EV batteries move toward higher energy density and longer life cycles, the quality requirements for copper foil continue to increase.

How Collagen Functions in Copper Foil Production for EVs

During the electrochemical production of copper foil, copper is deposited onto a rotating cathode drum from an acidic copper sulfate electrolyte. Collagen-derived peptides are introduced in very small concentrations as organic process additives.

Their role includes:

Controlled Copper Deposition:
Collagen peptides adsorb onto high-current density regions of the cathode surface, temporarily suppressing excessive copper growth.

Surface Leveling:
By moderating deposition at surface peaks, copper is encouraged to deposit more evenly, producing a smoother foil surface.

Grain Structure Refinement:
Collagen influences nucleation behavior, promoting fine and uniform copper grain formation rather than coarse or irregular structures.

Mechanical Property Enhancement:
Compared to aggressive synthetic additives, collagen peptides help balance tensile strength and elongation, which is critical for battery durability during repeated charge-discharge cycles.