Project

Debondable adhesives for detachable electric vehicle batteries

Acronym
DETACH
Code
F2025/IOF-StarTT/052
Duration
31 December 2025 → 15 March 2028
Funding
Regional and community funding: Industrial Research Fund
Research disciplines
  • Natural sciences
    • Synthesis of materials
  • Engineering and technology
    • Materials recycling and valorisation
    • Materials synthesis
    • Polymer processing
Keywords
Reversibele adhesieven afneembare batterij cellen elektrische voertuigen batterijmodules
 
Project description

The DETACH project aims to valorize UGent’s debondable adhesive technologies to enable sustainable, repairable, and regulation-compliant electric vehicle battery systems with detachable cells. Current adhesives hinder disassembly and repairability, which are challenges intensified by the EU Battery Regulation (effective August 2028). Responding to strong electric vehicle battery market pull, projected to reach USD 67.7B by 2032, DETACH will valorize two polyamide-based dynamic chemistries that support robust and reworkable adhesive solutions. The project focuses on designing curing agents, validating debondable adhesive performance, and demonstrating a proof-of-concept detachable battery module. DETACH will strengthen UGent’s IP portfolio and encourage licensing opportunities in electric vehicle battery and circular material markets.