The aim of the "HiStructures" project in the ProZell Cluster is to increase the performance of lithium-ion cells while at the same time saving material and manufacturing costs in order to create the conditions for a large-scale battery production in Germany. The project focuses on the combination of the expertise of process engineering working groups with the well-founded know-how of researchers in the field of electrochemical and structure-based simulation and modelling of batteries.
The project focuses on the development of concepts for the continuous and cost-effective production of ultra-thick, double-sided, high-energy electrodes. The greatest challenge in the production of very thick electrodes is to achieve high homogeneity, mechanical stability, good adhesive properties and high elasticity as well as a correspondingly long service life. Moreover, HiStructures is investigating various process-based hierarchical structuring concepts and their combination with each other (e.g. laser structuring, active material blends, gradient electrodes, multi-layer coating). In addition to practical work, the focus is on the combination of process engineering and simulation. The simulations help to determine the optimal structure of the electrodes and to identify and minimize loss mechanisms in battery operation. If successful, it would be possible to produce improved electrodes with a higher production throughput and thus lower costs. Finally, the further development of the process up to pilot scale will provide a comprehensive understanding of the process-structure-property relationships as well as the necessary know-how for the transfer into industrial production.
At the institute of joining and welding the concept of laser structuring of electrodes in particular is investigated. The focus is on laser-material interactions and the effects of different structural parameters on the electrochemical properties. It is investigated how the different properties such as layer thickness, structure size, structure spacing affect the electrochemical properties in order to optimize and adjust them.
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