Battery Electrolytes & Separators

Electrolytes and separators are critical enablers of lithium-ion and next-generation battery performance. The electrolyte provides the medium for ion transport between the anode and cathode, while the separator ensures electrical isolation while allowing ionic conduction. Together, they determine key performance factors such as safety, cycle life, charging speed, and energy density.

Battery electrolytes

Electrolytes in EV batteries are typically liquid formulations of lithium salts dissolved in organic solvents, with additives to enhance stability, conductivity, and safety. Solid-state and gel electrolytes are in development to improve safety and enable higher energy densities.

Electrolyte vendor list

Battery separators

The separator is a microporous polymer membrane that prevents direct contact between anode and cathode while allowing lithium ions to pass through. Separator design directly impacts battery safety, internal resistance, and cycle life.

Separator vendor list

Electrode support materials

Beyond electrolytes and separators, EV batteries rely on a range of auxiliary materials that stabilize electrodes, enhance conductivity, and maintain mechanical integrity. These include additives that extend cycle life, adhesives that secure cell components, and binders that hold active materials together on current collectors. Though used in small amounts, they are essential for reliable high-volume cell manufacturing.

While these materials make up only a few percent of total cell mass, they are crucial enablers of high-energy-density cells and safer fast-charging. Supply is dominated by specialty chemical firms in Japan, Korea, China, and increasingly Europe, making sourcing and formulation IP a competitive differentiator for cell makers.

Support materials vendor list

Why They Matter

Electrolytes and separators are critical determinants of EV battery safety and reliability. Improvements in these materials directly impact charging speeds, range, and cycle life. Failures in either component can cause short circuits, thermal runaway, or catastrophic pack failures.

Supply Chain & Risks

Electrolyte and separator production is concentrated among specialized chemical and materials companies, many in China, Japan, and South Korea. Risks include dependency on fluorochemicals (for LiPF6), rising demand outpacing separator film capacity, and cost pressures from safety-enhanced designs. Automakers are increasingly partnering with material suppliers to secure allocations and accelerate next-gen R&D (e.g., solid-state). Recycling and recovery of solvents and separator films is limited today but expected to grow in importance.

Market Outlook & Adoption (Ranked)