Research area "Batteries"

Lithium batteries and next-generation systems

Electromobility and stationary energy storage require novel material combinations with advantages over conventional systems, for example in terms of higher energy density or lower costs. Fraunhofer ICT conducts research on lithium-ion batteries and next-generation systems such as sodium-ion cells and solid state batteries, aiming to develop them to application level.

Development of electrolytes

The electrolyte is the core component in achieving material combinations with higher energy densities and a longer service life. Fraunhofer ICT investigates and continuously optimizes liquid and solid electrolytes with regard to their stability and performance. Another area of research focuses on hybrid polymer electrolytes, which can extend battery life.

Construction of cells and demonstrators

After a certain development stage, only limited information can be obtained from button cells. Fraunhofer ICT produces small multi-layered pouch cells for materials research. EL-cells and specifically developed mesurement setups are used for in-operando characterisation.

Electrochemical and thermal characterization

We analyze battery cells and systems with regard to their electrochemical and thermal behavior, as well as their aging. Our investigations provide the basis for reliably evaluating quality, load behavior, and heat generation, and for specifically designing individual cells, battery modules, and battery systems.

Material testing and post-mortem analysis

Using state-of-the-art characterization and measurement techniques, Fraunhofer ICT provides comprehensive insights into materials and electrochemical systems. This enables the precise analysis of electrodes, electrolytes, reaction and aging processes, as well as changes in layer thickness and the effects of pressure, all while the system is in operation.

In addition to in-operando measurements, post-mortem analyses of materials sensitive to air and moisture also provide valuable insights into the processes occurring inside the cell.

Measurement data for your simulation

For our customers, we determine the thermal capacity, conductivity and further physical parameters such as impedance of cell coils, regardless of their design.

Flyer: Measurement data for your simulation

Identifying the causes of failure

Your customer's battery cells have burnt out – and it's giving you burn-out? We can help by identifying the cause of failure.

Safety tests

In our state-of-the-art battery testing facility, we conduct safety tests on next-generation lithium-ion cells and systems, as well as modules and other cell chemistries, to systematically evaluate potential hazards.

Custom test setups and individually tailored test conditions enable real-world safety tests, including overcharge, short circuit, thermal runaway, and nail penetration—in accordance with international standards.

In addition, gas analyses can be performed during thermal runaway or during propagation.

Gas analysis

At Fraunhofer ICT, we analyze the gaseous, liquid, and solid substances released when a battery fails and determine their composition. In particular, gases can be recorded on a time-resolved basis during the test or collectively after the test is complete.

This allows us to identify even highly reactive substances and relevant intermediate products—an important basis for safety assessment.

Thermal characterization

Do you need information about the energy released by your cells in an emergency? Would you like to know how much gas your cells emit during thermal runaway, and how hot they get? We would be happy to help.