revoLect
PEM Researches Ultra-Light Fabric-Based Current Collectors
The chair "Production Engineering of E-Mobility Components" (PEM) of RWTH Aachen University is participating in the joint project "High-efficiency electrodes with ultra-light fabric-based current collectors for lithium-ion batteries" (revoLect). The goal of the project, which is funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, is to significantly increase the specific energy density.
PEM focuses on cell production and design
To this end, the PEM team is focusing on the design and production of battery cells from the polymer, carbon and glass fiber-based fabrics provided by the project partners. First, the calender of the pilot plant for cell production is adapted to the roll-to-roll process, and – in parallel – the cell to be produced is dimensioned in coordination with the collaboration partners. Subsequently, the slurry will be adapted to the different properties of woven fabrics compared to copper and aluminum foils, and coating trials will be carried out. After successful parameter determination for coating, the battery cells are assembled and formed.
Alternative methods for electrode sheets contacting
Particular attention is paid to the contacting of the electrode sheets. Since they are not made of aluminum or copper, alternative processes to the usual ultrasonic welding may have to be used here. Subsequently, the battery cells are tested with regard to their performance, and the respective values are compared with those of reference cells. These reference cells will also be manufactured at PEM and constructed with copper or aluminum foils as current conductors.
Further information is provided in this press release.
The project
- "revoLect": High-efficiency electrodes with ultra-light fabric-based current collectors for lithium-ion batteries
Research objectives
- Design and production of battery cells based on polymer, carbon and glass fiber fabrics
- Adaptation of the calender of the pilot plant for cell production to the roll-to-roll process
- Dimensioning of the cell to be produced
- Production of reference cells
- Adaptation of the slurry to the different properties of fabrics compared to copper and aluminum foils
- Creation of alternative processes for electrode sheets contacting
Research and project partners
PEM of RWTH Aachen University
Institute of Experimental Physics of TU Freiberg
Institute of Textile Machinery and High Performance Material Technology of TU Dresden
Fraunhofer Institute for Organic Electronics, Electron Beam and Plasma Technology (FEP)
elfolion GmbH
(German)
Porcher Industries Germany GmbH
ROMONTA GmbH
Customcells Holding GmbH
Duration
- 09/01/2022 through 08/31/2025
Project management
Funding code
- 03ETE041G
Grantor
Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK)