Asahi Kasei, the Japan-based technology company, has introduced a new grade of its flame-retardant nonwoven fabric, LASTAN™, designed to enhance electric vehicle (EV) battery safety. LASTAN™ offers a highly flexible and lightweight alternative to traditional materials used for thermal runaway protection, such as busbar protection sleeves and top covers within EV battery packs.
With EV battery safety a growing concern, Asahi Kasei’s innovative material addresses the need for flame-resistant and flexible materials that also offer good electrical insulation. The new grade of LASTAN™ withstands temperatures as high as 1,300°C and provides superior protection against particle blasts from venting gas. Its electrical insulation capacity reaches up to 3.5 kV at a 1 mm thickness.
Unlike heavier, brittle mineral-based materials, LASTAN™ is air-baked from special acrylic fibers, resulting in improved flexibility and processability. It also passes UL94 flame retardance tests with the highest rating of 5VA, showing exceptional performance.
Asahi Kasei aims to expand production of LASTAN™ globally, with plans to showcase it at the North American Battery Show in Detroit from October 7-10, 2024. The company’s new offering is expected to meet growing demand for EV battery protection materials.
Read more: https://www.asahi-kasei.com/news/2024/e240919.html
