BaSS

Description

The demand for robust and powerful batteries is increasing rapidly, particularly due to the wide electrification in the mobility sector. However, from a research perspective the focus is on volumetric and gravimetric energy density in order to improve the overall performance of the key component in the future. Pouch cells are packed comparatively densely to modules and suitable for the implementation of a space-optimized battery storage system. Nevertheless, the great quantity of different cell formats from the various manufacturers massively impairs efficient and sustainable design. Furthermore, various certification requirements in the main sales markets encumber a uniform battery configuration and testing methods across all markets.

Therefore, the project BaSS focuses on the development of new cell components, the harmonisation of formats and the standardisation of testing methods in the three relevant misuse scenarios (mechanical, thermal and electrical). The project partners are pursuing the goal of using experiments to standardise the current safety assessment of pouch cells, in order to reduce time-consuming and costly pre-development attempts at the cell level to a minimum. This results in two elementary findings, which on the one hand can lead in the development of safer cells and on the other hand in a draft standard. Both findings can accelerate the development cycles for more powerful, cheaper and, above all, safer battery cells.

The ifs aims to identify critical mechanical load cases and to adapt testing methods for pouch cells. In addition, various joining concepts are developed for both cell housings and internal contacting. In the further course of the project, protective mechanisms to improve safety at the cell level are examined. In the end of the project, the critical test paths are compiled with all partners and a draft standard for battery safety is designed.