Industrial adhesive manufacturer DELO has introduced a structural adhesive for batteries used in hybrid vehicles. Designed for high-volume series production, DELO-DUOPOX TC8686 is thermally conductive and flame-retardant.

DELO says its new adhesive, which is currently being used by an automotive supplier in the ramp-up phase of production, is suitable for low-voltage batteries used in hybrid vehicles, e-bikes and e-scooters. The adhesive allows battery cells to be bonded into a battery’s housing and dissipates the heat generated during operation.

Instead of mechanically connecting the battery cells and then using gap fillers for heat dissipation, DELO-DUOPOX TC8686 combines the two into one step.

DELO-DUOPOX TC8686 is designed for temperatures ranging from -40° C to +85° C. The adhesive’s tensile shear strength on aluminum is 18 N/mm², which meets automotive strength requirements at maximum service temperatures of 80° C. Its flexibility compensates for the different thermal expansion behaviors of cell and housing material during operation.

The adhesive has a thermal conductivity of 1.1 W/m*K. It also meets the requirements for flame retardancy according to UL 94 V-0.

DELO-DUOPOX TC8686 has a mixing ratio of 2:1 and requires a 30-minute processing time after mixing. After four hours, the adhesive reaches its initial strength. Ninety percent of its final strength can be achieved after 24 hours. With a low heat input, the curing time can be reduced. 

Beige in color, the product is detectable by cameras, facilitating accurate application control. Also, the thermal conductivity filler is only slightly abrasive, which contributes to the dispensing systems’ long lifespan. The product is classified in transport category 1, and can be stored at room temperature.

Source: DELO