Fraunhofer ITWM launches project to optmise battery ageing
In the research project, they are using modern simulation tools and innovative measurement techniques to drive forward the further development of battery cells for electric cars. Results will be presented at the Battery Show Europe 2025 from June 3 to 5 with an exhibit on inline layer thickness measurement of battery foil coatings.
The researchers are specifically looking at the electrode component of the cell, which they hail as a central component for the battery, with a ‘decisive influence on the behaviour of the entire battery cell.’ Utilising the Fraunhofer ITWM’s BEST simulation software enables the researchers to simulate the three-dimensional microstructure of electrodes in detail, the researchers wrote in the press release.
“We can use these insights to predict how the cell will behave during charging and discharging and then make targeted optimizations to improve the performance and efficiency of the battery,” explained Jochen Zausch, team leader of Electrochemistry and Batteries.
The project not only focuses on battery ageing behaviour after production but is also looking to improve battery manufacturing processes. As part of the state government-funded project ‘Digitalization of Battery Cell Production to Create a Battery Twin for the Entire Product Life Cycle,’ or DiBaZ for short, a central aspect is the ‘simulation and optimisation of the central steps in the production of batteries, such as calendering the electrodes, electrolyte wetting and battery cell formation or foam encapsulation of cells within modules for insulation.’ The project uses a digital twin for each process step in battery production.
“Through the work in this project, we can offer our industrial partners methods and models that not only simulate processes from battery production, but also enable non-destructive quality control and include energy management with predictive control,” said Konrad Steiner, coordinator of the project.
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