Theory

In this research field, the scientists at HIU deal with the theoretical description of processes that take place in batteries (e.g. during charging or discharging processes). The composition and behavior of structures are modeled in order to be able to estimate material properties that are relevant for electrochemical energy storage.

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Research Field

In this field research at HIU, the formation of structures through chemical processes is simulated at the atomic level. At the same time, they examine how batteries work at the system level, for example to calculate the charging and discharging behavior in advance. Due to the increasing computer performance, the HIU scientists are able to come closer and closer to the realistic description of processes through extensive calculation algorithms. Simulations and modeling algorithms are used to gain a better understanding of the electrochemical processes taking place in the batteries.

The researchers use this not only to explain facts, but also to make predictions that contribute significantly to improving the material or battery properties. This can significantly reduce the number of experiments required to develop energy storage systems. This is why theorists and experimenters work very closely together at the HIU.

Research Groups at HIU

Prof. Dr. Birger Horstmann Theory of Electrochemical Materials The research group models batteries as part of Prof. Latz's department at DLR. Various methods such as quantum simulation, machine learning and theoretical thermodynamics enable a deeper understanding of everything from individual atoms to the entire battery cell. View research group
Prof. Dr. Timo Jacob Basics of Electrochemistry The research group "Basics of Electrochemistry" studies the fundamental aspects of electrochemical processes in electrochemical storage units. One of the tasks is to study the changes taking place between the surface of the electrodes and the electrolytes during the processes of charging and discharging. View research group
Prof. Dr. Axel Groß Elementary Processes The processes and structures that take place at the atomic level in batteries, especially at interfaces, are studied by the group Elementary Processes, who use modern quantum chemical procedures, in particular those based on density functional theory. View research group
Prof. Dr. Arnulf Latz Electrochemical Multiphysics Modeling The German Aerospace Center (DLR) is represented by a research group at the HIU. View research group

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Topics from this Research Field

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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