Methods

The research field of methods mainly focuses on the development and targeted application of selected analysis techniques to make reaction pathways and atomic phenomena of electrode materials and cells visible. In order to guarantee a long service life and safe operation of batteries, detailed knowledge of the processes involved in charging and discharging is required. These can only be recorded using special examination methods, which are further developed accordingly. Both, fully functional research cells and commercially available battery systems are analyzed.

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Research Field

To investigate atomic processes, the researchers therefore use sensitive analysis methods – sometimes in real time during the charging and discharging process. By looking inside a battery – without impairing its function – changes in material due to fatigue and aging can be recognized and damage mechanisms can be precisely observed. On the basis of this information, the scientists at the HIU can then make targeted recommendations for material development for more powerful and safe energy storage systems.

Research Groups at HIU

Dr. Simon Fleischmann Nanoconfined Electrochemical Interfaces The research group "Nanoconfined Electrochemical Interfaces" deals with innovative electrode materials for electrochemical energy storage systems, which are based on ion intercalation. View research group
Prof. Dr. Christian Kübel Research Group Prof. Christian Kübel The aim of the research group is to research the structure and morphology of novel battery materials and components. View research group

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Topics from this Research Field

News from the science of the Helmholtz Institute Ulm: Here, scientists provide insights into their research.
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First German factory for battery electrolyte - Dr. Beltrop (E-Lyte) & Dr. Hofmann (KIT)

September 18th, 2023 It is the best-protected material recipe for a #battery: the #electrolyte. Consisting of solvents, conductive salts and additives, it enables ion mobility between the positive and negative poles within a battery. Without ... Learn more

BEV trucks vs. Hydrogen trucks - Dr. Jürgen Wagner (MAN)

August 20th, 2023 Dr. Jürgen Wagner (Vice President MAN Truck & Bus SE) explains his company's electrification strategy. In fact, the Munich-based company is pursuing a three-pronged approach: The manufacturer of commercial vehicles and truc... Learn more

Prof. Fichtner & Dr. Bresser - Sodium-Ion Batteries

May 7th, 2023 Sodium-ion batteries have been overshadowed by lithium-ion batteries for decades, but there is a thousand times more sodium in the earth's crust than lithium. And now battery chemistry has evolved to the point where sodium-ion b... Learn more

Prof. Fichtner - CATL "Condensed Battery"

April 26th, 2023 Have the European battery producers completely lost touch? Chinese battery manufacturers are celebrating new product successes everywhere: The first sodium batteries (BYD, CATL, 2021) are being produced in Asia, high-performa... Learn more

Prof. Stein - Pulsed charging in battery formation process

April 23rd, 2023 Traditionally, fresh battery cells are carefully charged for up to 24 hours immediately after production. This "formation process" is cost-intensive, time-consuming and usually takes a long time. A group of battery researcher... Learn more