System Architecture

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Thermal characterization of electrode materials

Heat generation and the accompanied variation in internal temperature become crucial parameters particularly for large-sized commercial cells. Being dependent on the load and the external temperature, they are important to describe thermal runaway behavior as well as performance and ageing of the cell.

Under the utilization of a heat flow calorimeter (TAM IV, TA Instruments) the research group is able to detect the small temperature changes on an electrode level. From the recorded heat flow rate one can conclude on the thermal behavior of large cells as well as faradaic and non-faradaic reactions taking place during operation.

Process development for all-solid-state batteries

In comparison to usual liquid electrolytes, employment of solid electrolytes promises safer, lighter and more eco-friendly all-solid-state batteries. In particular, solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) offer enhanced thermal and mechanical stability, flexibility and easier processing. However, ionic conductivity and interfacial contact need to be improved in order to realize all-solid state batteries on a commercial scale. Against that background, the research group is working on a simple, scalable and solvent-free procedure that allows for the synthesis of SPEs inside the cathode material (in-situ). In this approach, the resulting SPEs are based on interpenetrating polymer networks (IPNs) allowing for the independent optimization of ionic conductivity and mechanical stability.