News from
the BatLab.
Kems4Bats at AABC 2023 in San Diego
Kems4Bats participated in the Advanced Automotive Battery Conference (AABC) 2023 in San Diego (USA), one of the most important events in the field of battery technology. The AABC brings together industry and academia to discuss the latest developments and research findings.
The conference featured a variety of interactive sessions, presentations, industry exhibitions, and poster presentations. Among the total of 59 posters exhibited, notably four contributions from Kems4Bats were represented. These addressed topics such as the heat generation of Si anodes, the simulation of heat generation of LFP cells, the determination of the diffusion coefficient for silicon using EIS, and the prediction of State of Charge (SOC) and temperature through Artificial Intelligence. Our contributions garnered a lot of attention.
Participation in AABC 2023 enabled the research group to establish new contacts and exchange ideas with other professionals. Through attending the presentations and showcasing new research findings and technologies, the conference was considered a successful event for Kems4Bats.
Kems4Bats at Kraftwerk Batterie Conference
Kems4Bats was represented at the prestigious Kraftwerk Battery Conference 2023 in Aachen. In addition to intensive discussions with project partners, leading scientists, and industry representatives, our doctoral students had the opportunity to present their latest research results in the form of posters. The posters covered topics such as the heat generation of new and aged NMC, the investigation of crystalline and amorphous silicon, as well as the simulated heat generation of LFP using our own material data. A special highlight of the event was also the exclusive tour of the recently opened CARL research center, which addresses central questions concerning the aging, lifespan, and reliability of batteries.
SKF Prize for the best thesis in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering 2023
From left to right: Mr Leskow (Betreuer), Mr Malingriaux (Student), Mr Markus (Dekan), Mr Henriques (Nachwuchsforschungsgruppenleiter)
Kems4Bats is pleased to announce that Mr. Nathan Malingriaux has been awarded the prestigious SKF Prize for his excellent thesis in the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in 2023. This esteemed honor annually recognizes outstanding students whose work demonstrates exceptional quality and innovative approaches. Nathan Malingriaux, as part of his research, determined the diffusion coefficients for silicon anodes. The silicon anodes were produced within the BMBF research group Kems4Bats at the Hochschule Mannheim. Determining the diffusion coefficients is of great importance for validating electrode materials for fast charging capability. This is particularly relevant in electromobility, as consumers desire short charging times at fast charging stations. Furthermore, the diffusion coefficient plays an important role in simulating gas and heat development. The certificate was ceremoniously presented on November 27, 2023, as part of the "Day of Awards and Scholarships" at Hochschule Mannheim in the Markuskirche. Kems4Bats congratulates Mr. Malingriaux wholeheartedly on this achievement.
Hey Kems4Bats! 🎄
Did you enjoy the Christmas holidays as much as we did? Our festive celebration on November 28, 2023 was an absolute blast, and we can't wait to tell you all about the highlights!
The kick-off began at Building Q, from where we headed towards Escape Rooms Mannheim. Four rooms full of thrills and realism - it was simply amazing to see how all the groups found their way out of the tricky scenarios! The escape room not only provided loads of fun but also fostered team spirit and exciting challenges.
Then the party continued at the Kaiserpalast in Mannheim, where an irresistible Mongolian buffet awaited us! With a table reserved just for us, we had plenty of time to enjoy the culinary delights to the fullest. The food was not only incredibly delicious but also the perfect opportunity for all of us to unwind and reflect on the past year together.
The Christmas party was fantastic, a spectacular end to the year, filled with a mix of fun, camaraderie, and culinary delight. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed with their positive energy! We look forward to many more unforgettable moments in the coming year.
Let's embark on this journey together - here's to a successful new year!
Warm regards,
Your doctoral students
Kems4Bats develops advanced technology to determine battery conditions
The continuous monitoring and analysis of batteries regarding their State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH) is crucial. It enables a precise assessment of the battery's condition and promotes the longevity, efficiency, and safety of battery systems.
The junior research group Kems4Bats and their project partners are developing a method that utilizes neural networks with data from impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and an EIS sensor capable of measuring a Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery pack in operation using EIS. Remarkable results were achieved in preliminary laboratory experiments, with the temperature deviation being under 0.5°C and the SoC being determined to be under 1%.
Review of the 25th GEFTA Calorimetry Days in Braunschweig
From May 31st to June 2nd, 2023, our doctoral student Kevin Böhm participated in the 25th Calorimetry Days, an event organized by the Society for Thermal Analysis e.V. (GEFTA). This year, the conference took place at the premises of the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Braunschweig. Experts and industry partners from around the world presented the current state of calorimetric investigations and technology. The diverse application possibilities of calorimetry were demonstrated, ranging from hydrogen storage and the influence of ambient temperature on the body temperature of a mouse to the determination of phase diagrams of novel alloys, spanning a wide spectrum of scientific disciplines associated with calorimetry.
A special symposium was dedicated to the topic of batteries. In his presentation, Kevin Böhm emphasized the importance of calorimetry for battery research. Topics such as safety and data acquisition for battery cooling design cannot be realized without calorimetric investigations. Additionally, initial measurements with our own manufactured anodes were presented and discussed.
Visit us at BUGA23!
After the successful exhibition at iMobility in Stuttgart, we are now also at the BUGA23 in Mannheim from May 22nd to May 30th for a week. You can find us in the U-Halle together with Delta Racing.
In addition to laboratory equipment exhibited by us, there will be interactive experiments.
Furthermore, Dr. David Henriques - our research group leader - will hold exciting lectures!
Everyone is invited to the lectures and can come by on May 27th and May 28th without registration!
In his lecture, he asks the question: "Which batteries will drive electromobility forward in the future?" Lithium-ion batteries are indispensable in many mobile devices such as smartphones, power tools, or electric cars. They must be efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly. But which battery materials can drive electromobility forward in the future? What are their challenges and how can they be solved? With innovative measurement methods, we explore future battery materials for electromobility. Better understanding of materials will make lithium-ion batteries even more efficient and safer.
Stuttgart Spring Fair – We are at iMobility!
We are represented together with the Formula Student Team Delta Racing at the iMobility trade fair in Stuttgart. The fair offers a wide selection of vehicles for testing and showcases intelligent mobility. Visitors can learn about our current battery research and view exhibits. There are mini-games for children and the opportunity to conduct initial experiments in battery research. Additionally, visitors can drive the fastest lap in an original Formula Student race car simulator and win prizes.
The trade fair takes place from April 13th to April 16th at the exhibition grounds in Stuttgart.
7th MSIT Winter School at Ringberg Castle near Tegernsee
From March 12th to 17th, 2023, three of our doctoral students attended the MSIT Winter School. The aim of the event was to gain a deeper understanding of phase equilibria, crystallography, and phase diagrams. Knowledge was imparted by international experts through lectures, practical applications, or the analysis of case studies.
Another highlight of the training was the Ringberg Castle at Lake Tegernsee. The conference venue offered a magnificent view of Lake Tegernsee and the Alps. Thus, it provided a perfect environment for networking and scientific exchange with other researchers and doctoral students.
Volkswagen Group and Hochschule Mannheim
We warmly congratulate Stéphane Olou’ou Guifo on his third publication as a doctoral student with the Volkswagen Group in collaboration with Hochschule Mannheim and the Pennsylvania State University (USA). Mr. Olou’ou Guifo is a former graduate of our Faculty of Mechanical Engineering. In his dissertation, he focuses on the simulation and modeling of silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries, particularly regarding fast charging capability and aging mechanisms. With silicon anodes, theoretically up to 10 times more energy can be stored than with conventional graphite anodes. This could lead to an increase in range in electromobility.
Materials Science and Engineering Congress (MSE)
At the end of September, the research group Kems4Bats participated in the MSE 2022 in Darmstadt. With more than 1500 participants, the MSE is one of the largest European conferences in the field of materials science. The development of innovative new materials and substances is a key function for leading technological positions in many industries in Germany.
With two posters and one presentation, we presented our current research results. From simulations based on self-measured material data to the measurement of the heat generation of future cathode and anode materials, some of which we now produce ourselves.
...and we also had fun along the way 😊...
First aider training at Mannheim University – Four new first aiders at Kems4Bats
In mid-February, our research group leader David Henriques, our laboratory manager Uzair Tahir, and two doctoral students, Jonas Buch and Kevin Böhm, participated in a full-day first aid training session organized by the Malteser.
During the training, they learned the correct actions to take in accident situations as well as the application of bandages and defibrillators. The exercises involved both dummies and real individuals to prepare the first responders optimally for potential emergencies.
Since every minute counts in an emergency situation, providing prompt first aid until the arrival of emergency services is of crucial importance. Therefore, our trained first aiders will be able to provide coordinated instructions for optimal initial care from now on.
We are visiting the Hands on Seminar at El-Cell in Hamburg
From May 11th to 13th, we - the research group Kems4Bats - attended a hands-on seminar by El-Cell GmbH on new laboratory equipment and battery manufacturing. Several battery cells with the most relevant cell chemistries were built during the seminar. Additionally, we were able to compare our self-manufactured Si-anodes with several cathode materials and conduct performance tests.
We particularly appreciated the discussion-friendly atmosphere. Doctoral students and staff could ask questions at any time, exchange ideas with other participants, and further expand their knowledge.
We thank El-Cell for the exciting and informative time.
Guest scientist – Visit from Hungary
Prof. Dr. László Bencze from Eötvös Loránd University in Budapest, Hungary, visited us in August 2022 for four weeks. Prof. Dr. Bencze's research focuses on the investigation of high-temperature thermochemistry of alloys, halides, and ceramics using Knudsen effusion mass spectrometry (KEMS).
With his expertise, he supported us in the area of KEMS methodology during preliminary experiments for our new KEMS system. During his visit, he provided a theoretical crash course on KEMS and taught fundamental calculations of thermodynamic quantities.
We thank Prof. Dr. Bencze for the wonderful and instructive time. We look forward to the next time!
Hannover Fair 2022
Every spring, the Hannover Messe takes place at the largest trade fair ground in the world – the largest trade fair for capital goods. From May 30th to June 2nd, many well-known companies exhibited there. Naturally, members of our research group Kems4Bats also visited for market analysis and further education in the fields of additive manufacturing, e-mobility, and innovative materials.
Study Mechanical Engineering – at Hochschule Mannheim
Mechanical engineers are drivers of progress – as shown in this film by the Faculty of Mechanical Engineering at the University of Applied Sciences Mannheim. Contrary to some prejudices, the degree program is not outdated, but future-oriented and diverse, and at HSMA, it is also digital and sustainable.
Kems4Bats is present at the NETZSCH- Gerätebau GmbH in-house exhibition
On July 4, 2022, the research group Kems4Bats had a booth at the first in-house trade fair of NETZSCH-Gerätebau GmbH. In approximately 30 lectures and numerous booths from all areas of materials science and testing, useful information was gathered.
The research group presented the research focus of the working group at the booth and in a lecture, as well as self-manufactured battery electrodes. These electrodes were characterized by a high silicon content.
In addition, an exhibit demonstrated the principle of measuring heat generation in batteries in a visually appealing manner. The method shown allows the measurement of heat flows without needing to know the heat capacity of the sample.
Die Teilnahme an den Future Days 2022 ist kostenlos. Die Anmeldung kann hier erfolgen:
“Kems4Bats” presents their battery research at the Future Days 2022
Dr. David Henriques presents his BMBF junior research group "Kems4Bats" as part of the NETZSCH Future Days 2022. The virtual conference takes place from May 16 to 19, 2022, and is broadcast worldwide. Participation is free.
At the NETZSCH Future Days, experts from various application areas come together to take a look into the future. A range of topics such as pharmaceuticals, life sciences, energy storage, and additive manufacturing are addressed.
In the BMBF junior research group "Kems4Bats," students, doctoral candidates, and scientific staff are working on more powerful and safer batteries for future electromobility. The research work of "Kems4Bats" is supported by leading industry companies in the field of electromobility.
Visiting CUSTOMCELLS
Students, doctoral candidates, and scientific staff of the research group "Kems4Bats" visited CUSTOMCELLS in Itzehoe, Germany. CUSTOMCELLS is a leading manufacturer in the production and development of lithium-ion batteries "Made in Germany." At the hands-on seminar, members of the research group "Kems4Bats" gained insight into how lithium-ion batteries are industrially manufactured and the challenges involved in the production and development of future battery systems.
CUSTOMCELLS' lithium-ion batteries are used in maritime and medical applications, aviation, and the automotive sector. Among other initiatives, CUSTOMCELLS established a joint venture with Porsche, forming the company Cellforce Group GmbH, to develop and produce batteries for the high-performance sector.