Batteries

Our work is focused both on fundamental and application oriented aspects of this battery technology. We are active in the development and optimization of new materials for both the positive and the negative electrode. Electrochemical and in-situ X-ray diffraction measurements are used to obtain fundamental thermodynamic, kinetic, and structural data. These experiments, in combination with model calculations, contribute to the improvement of the battery materials. In parallel, complete composite electrodes are prepared and characterized electrochemically and with routine methods such as porosimetry and scanning electron microscopy. This combination of preparative and characterization work has led to improvements in their cycle life and specific charge and to increases in the achievable maximum current density. In this way comprehensive knowledge has been gathered about small-scale electrodes (cm²), which is now transferred to the development of large-area, flexible electrodes. In addition, fundamental studies on safety related aspects of this battery technology are performed. Detailed investigations of the interaction of the electrodes with the electrolyte solutions and the behavior of the cells under extreme conditions are accomplished by applying advanced analytical methods such as in-situ FTIR and Raman spectroscopy, in-situ mass spectrometry, and differential thermogravimetric analysis.