It goes without saying that batteries have now become an integral part of our day-to-day lives. They are used to power a variety of devices, ranging from remote controls and hearing aids to weight scales and smartphones.
Along with the primary parts like anode, cathode, and metal containers, modern batteries need other components like tab leads and tab seal films to function optimally and deliver the expected performance. Read on as we explain to you the basics of tab leads and tab seal films and cover the major factors driving the tab leads and tab seal film market growth.
Quick Overview of Tab Leads and Tab Seal Film
A battery tab is an important part of pouch lithium-ion battery products. As its core, a battery is divided into anode and cathode. Battery tabs are metal conductors that take out electricity from the battery by leading the anode and cathode poles out of the cell. Aluminum is usually the lead material for the positive electrode, whereas it takes the form of nickel-coated copper for the negative electrode. Both these lead materials are enclosed in a polypropylene (PP) seal to ensure the battery functions even if the electrolyte leaks.
A tab seal film, on the other hand, is an adhesive for tab leads of lithium-ion batteries. Tab seal films insulate the tab leads from each other and ensure they don’t short out. They are usually made of some polymer material and designed such that they can withstand high temperatures and other harsh conditions.
What’s Driving the Market Forward?
The tab leads and tab seal film market was valued at USD 301.24 million in 2021 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 13.5%, generating an estimated revenue of USD 874.20 Million by 2030.
The market is primarily driven by original equipment manufacturers introducing new and efficient methods to package energy systems within electric vehicles. The advent of these new methods, in turn, drives the demand for leads and seals in pouch batteries.
Another major factor propelling the market forward is the evolution of governance concerning battery package systems. Global safety standards are pushing stringent performance requirements for battery enclosures. This means engineers must ensure their designs meet the evolving safety and regulatory requirements. Pouch cells are often used in lithium-ion batteries as they help lower the overall weight of electric vehicles.
Materials Used to Manufacture Tab Leads and Tab Seal Films
Several materials are used to manufacture tab leads and tab seal films. Below we’ve listed some of them:
- Aluminum
- Copper
- Nickel
- Polyamide
- Polypropylene
- Polyolefin
The Aluminum Segment is Anticipated to Dominate the Market
The Aluminum segment is expected to lead the tab leads and tab seal film market over the forecast period. This is largely because aluminum is the primary source for lithium-ion pouch cell manufacturers, battery developers, and R&D labs worldwide. Besides, aluminum has applications as a safety barrier in EVs and is used to enhance the performance of LLBs.
End-Use of Tab Leads and Tab Seal Films
Tab Leads and tab seal films have numerous applications. Here are some of their end-uses:
- Consumer electronics
- Electric vehicles
- Military
- Industrial
- Specialty Applications
- Others (Floor Scrubber and forklift)
Asia Pacific is Projected to Account for a Significant Revenue Share
The Asia Pacific region in anticipated to dominate the tab leads and tab seal film market over the forecast period. The demand for electric vehicles has increased considerably in China, owing to its rapid technological progress. Besides, several domestic Chinese startups have furnished their electric vehicle models to accommodate sophisticated EV intelligence systems, making their products distinct and differentiated.
End Note and Conclusion
Tab leads and tab seal films are important elements of lithium-ion batteries. They are crucial for ensuring the safety and performance of battery packs. The rising demand for EVs in the automobile sector and transportation system is majorly driving the tab leads and tab seal film market forward.