Microwave-Based Electrode Drying for Sustainable Battery Manufacturing

Background and Motivation:

Electrode drying is one of the most energy-intensive and time-consuming steps in lithium-ion battery production. Conventional drying relies on large convection ovens with long residence times, resulting in high energy consumption, large factory footprints, and limited process flexibility. Microwave-based volumetric heating offers a fundamentally different approach by enabling rapid, uniform moisture removal directly within the electrode structure. While the technology shows strong potential, further development and validation are required to ensure industrial compatibility, scalability, and product quality.

Purpose and Objectives:

The purpose of EMBRACE is to establish the technical and industrial feasibility of microwave-based electrode drying for lithium-ion battery manufacturing. The project aims to develop and optimize a pilot-scale microwave drying system, define robust drying parameters for high-performance battery electrodes, and ensure that electrode quality, uniformity, and electrochemical performance are maintained or improved. In parallel, EMBRACE will quantify potential energy savings and environmental benefits and assess the techno-economic and sustainability impacts of the technology compared to conventional drying processes.

Wider Impact:

EMBRACE supports innovation in volumetric heating technologies with applications beyond batteries, including coatings and energy materials. By reducing energy demand and emissions in battery production, the project contributes to EU Green Deal objectives and strengthens European industrial autonomy in strategic manufacturing technologies.