Stories|Next-Gen Battery Research: Seeing Performance & Degradation in Action
Next-Gen Battery Research: Seeing Performance & Degradation in Action
Electronics and energy industry
Test Stand for Operando Battery Investigations: Advancing Industry-Relevant Research
A state-of-the-art test stand has been developed to enhance the capabilities of synchrotron tomography in investigating industrially relevant battery cells. Supported by a €78,000 grant in 2023, this flexible multi-purpose system enables in-situ and operando imaging during battery cycling, offering unparalleled insights into battery performance and degradation under real-world conditions.
Key Achievements
The test stand integrates cutting-edge cyclers and potentiostats to perform 3D tomographic imaging of various battery types. Highlights include:
- Compatibility with batteries ranging from coin cells to larger prismatic, pouch, and round cells
- Integration of Python-programmable potentiostats for impedance spectroscopic characterization, extending measurements to 5D and 6D imaging
- Successful tests at synchrotron facilities, using industry-relevant materials and cells
- Initial results demonstrate excellent performance, paving the way for real-world industrial applications
Bridging Science and Industry
This project addresses critical challenges in battery research, enabling industry partners to accelerate the development of next-generation batteries. Key innovations include:
- High penetration depth and phase contrast options, enabling reduced radiation damage and long-term degradation studies
- Nano-CT imaging for ultra-high resolution studies, down to 30 nm, particularly for solid-state electrolyte batteries
- Flexible, transportable cyclers with electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), adaptable to various battery types and cycling protocols
By combining advanced imaging and electrochemical characterization, the test stand meets the demands of battery developers, cell manufacturers, and material researchers, offering unmatched analytical capabilities.
Future Outlook
The next phase of the project focuses on testing larger industrial battery cells at high-energy instruments and expanding collaborations with industry. Integration with upcoming facilities, such as the TomoTestBattLab at HZB, will enable sample pre-screening for optimized synchrotron measurements. These advancements position the test stand as a critical tool for driving innovation in battery technology.
Are you interested in collaborating on Operando Battery Investigations? Feel free to contact us at info@hi-acts.de.
