The Battery Show 2024, held from October 7 to 10 in Detroit, Michigan, was a flagship event for the battery and electric vehicle (EV) industry, drawing more than 21,000 attendees from diverse sectors. BASF proudly showcased cutting-edge technology, engaged in critical discussions, and deepened its role as a leader in battery materials. With a strong presence, a series of engaging presentations, and a focus on collaboration, the event solidified the company’s commitment to driving innovation in this fast-evolving market.
BASF’s booth attracted significant attention from across the industry. Visitors were drawn to the multiple displays featuring videos, product presentations and interactive discussions on battery technologies. The booth fostered an engaging environment for meaningful conversations, from materials to testing capabilities.
"We had many people from all different areas of the industry stopping by. Our booth was buzzing with activity as colleagues worked together to answer questions and offer insights into the unique solutions we provide," said Louis Angeles, Global Additives Industry Marketing Manager – NA. The booth featured BASF’s advancements in battery materials, particularly the technologies developed to enhance performance inside and outside battery cells. A key focus was on the role of binders and additives for electrode processing within battery production, a critical component for domestic battery sources in a market experiencing explosive growth.
One of the most anticipated parts of the show was the New Product Showcase. Natalie Nicewicz, Market Segment Manager – Nonwovens, presented a comprehensive overview of BASF’s product line, focusing on the role of battery binders in boosting battery performance. This showcase offered attendees a closer look at how the company’s technologies is shaping the future of energy storage. "Our presentation provided a brief but detailed overview of why binders are essential to the domestic battery market. As this industry booms, the demand for reliable, high-performance binders grows exponentially," Nicewicz said. "We went through our product line, highlighting the critical role of styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and polyacrylic acid (PAA) chemistries. These materials significantly impact the performance of batteries, from enhancing longevity to improving energy efficiency." The presentation wasn't just a theoretical discussion. Nicewicz highlighted BASF’s capabilities in testing batteries in-house, which includes creating coatings and copper calendaring and conducting final performance tests on finished batteries in the labs. This end-to-end capability makes us a valuable partner for customers looking for robust and reliable battery solutions. "We emphasized that our ability to test batteries in-house gives us a unique edge," she added. "From development to final testing, we ensure that our products meet the high standards our customers require."
BASF's battery products play a pivotal role in advancing energy storage technology, especially in the rapidly growing electric vehicle (EV) market. Among its key innovations is Licity, a high-performance battery binder designed to improve the efficiency and lifespan of lithium-ion batteries. Licity® supports the integrity of the electrode components within a battery, enhancing performance and durability while ensuring that energy storage systems meet the increasing demands of modern applications.
BASF’s high-performance battery cell additives for cathode and anode layers, as well as separator coatings in electrode processing, aid in smoother and more efficient battery cell processing. Our additives not only reduce viscosity, which can lead to an increase in the solid content of cathode slurry and improve batch-to-batch consistency, but they also reduce defects during coating and enhance application efficiency. Licity is part of BASF's larger portfolio of materials aimed at optimizing the internal components of batteries, such as electrodes, meanwhile Additives aim the external aspects like adhesives and coatings formulations used in battery packs. By addressing both the core and peripheral needs of energy storage, BASF provides comprehensive solutions that improve everything from energy density to thermal management.
The event was also a fantastic opportunity to connect with other industry players, from competitors to downstream partners. These interactions often led to insightful discussions and even potential collaborations that wouldn't have been possible in a typical business environment. "We had some unique conversations at the show. One example was with a customer who makes solid-state batteries. They didn't fully understand how our additives technologies can be applied in existing battery technologies like LFP or NMC until we had a detailed discussion at our booth,” Angeles said. "Those connections are invaluable and only happen at events like this."
BASF’s presence also extended beyond the booth, as colleagues engaged in multiple customer events, offering even more opportunities for face-to-face meetings. One such event, co-sponsored with a local city partner, provided a platform for direct engagement with customers heavily involved in the battery manufacturing process. The feedback from these conversations was immensely valuable. "The show wasn't just about showcasing products, but about really listening to our customers' challenges and understanding how we can better serve them. The insights we gained will shape our approach moving forward," Angeles said.
BASF’s focus on the internal components of batteries, like materials that enhance cell performance, and external elements, such as adhesives used in battery packs, positions it as a key player in the market. The feedback received during the event confirmed this. "We confirmed that beyond the cell itself, the outer applications — such as adhesives and sealants applied to battery packs — are just as critical. This opens up new opportunities for us to offer materials that improve the overall performance of these products," Angeles said.
The event also provided valuable insights into industry trends, with participants sharing their thoughts on the future of battery technology and energy storage. One emerging trend observed was the shift in focus from last year's show, which strongly emphasized assembly. This year's event leaned more toward presentations and discussions on technological advancements and market shifts. "I noticed that compared to last year, there was a greater focus on presentations and conference schedules. There seems to be a shift in the industry, with more companies focusing on what's inside the battery cell and the manufacturing processes behind it," Nicewicz said. "It's an exciting time for the industry, and we're looking forward to how these trends will continue to evolve."
The Battery Show 2024 was a tremendous success for the company. It offered a platform to showcase products, engage with industry leaders, and gain deeper insights into the battery market. The connections made, the feedback received, and the emerging opportunities will guide BASF’s strategy in the coming years. "We're committed to being at the forefront of this industry, and events like The Battery Show are crucial for us to stay connected, share our innovations, and learn from others," Angeles concluded. "As the industry grows, so will our presence, and we look forward to playing an even bigger role in the future of battery technologies." With The Battery Show 2025 already on the horizon, BASF is eager to continue contributing to the growth and success of the battery and EV industry.
Contact BASF for questions relating to Licity and Additives technologies for electrode processing in Electric Vehicle Battery.