Battery

Grid

ChatGPT for battery chemicals

A team of researchers led by the University of Michigan in the US is developing a generative AI model to produce new molecules for batteries, writes Nick Flaherty. The machine learning framework will be developed using 200,000 node hours on the Polaris, a 34-petaflop supercomputer at Argonne National Laboratory.

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Battery inspection

Getting inside a battery to check its integrity or to trace a fault in a non-destructive manner is technologically challenging, as Peter Donaldson explains Mass producing large capacity lithium-ion batteries to meet the anticipated demand for EVs while ensuring that they are as safe, dependable and long-lived as possible is driving the need for faster, more thorough and more reliable inspection systems.

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Detecting test-gas leaks in EV battery production

A leading battery manufacturer for the automotive industry is using test-gas leak-detection systems from Zeltwanger Leak Testing & Automation, which is equipped with complete solutions from Pfeiffer Vacuum.

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Bloomy rolls out compact battery simulator

Bloomy Controls has launched the Desktop BMS HIL Test System, a small, compact and transportable system for users to simulate battery cells safely for development projects.

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Phase change materials

Phase change materials offer intriguing possibilities in the thermal management of EV powertrains as Nick Flaherty explains Phase-change materials (PCMs) are known for their superior latent heat capacity, acting as heat absorbers without notable temperature increases. This property can be used in many different ways throughout the powertrain of e-mobility systems, from enhancing the heat transfer in the power electronics to cooling the entire battery pack

Deep Insight

Battery coatings

Peter Donaldson finds complex challenges within the development of coatings for battery applications Coatings play a crucial role in battery cells, modules and packs. Evolving continuously, they are engineered to enhance performance, safety, reliability and longevity in these complex, high value electrochemical systems. While the

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New Renault Master E-Tech electric’s WLTP range – up to 460 km

Renault has chosen two batteries optimised for capacity, size and mass, combined with in-depth work on aerodynamics and a brand-new innovative platform. The van comes with a choice of two energy storage capacity ratings: 40 kWh and 87 kWh. These two packs are built into a single casing and designed for driving requirements in cities as much as in suburbs. And they do not hamper the vehicle’s payload capacity – which is an essential criterion in this segment.

Grid

LFP cells charge in six minutes

DESTEN has developed the first Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) cell that can charge in just six minutes at 6 C writes Nick Flaherty. The 160 Wh/kg pouch cell developed by DESTEN is capable of charging from 20% to 80% SOC in six minutes at a charging rate of 6 C. Moreover, the LFP chemistry means the cell is intrinsically safer than lithium ion cells.

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Ascend Elements Targets 90% Reduction in EV Battery Material Carbon Footprint By 2030

New Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) Compares Carbon Emissions of NMC 622 Cathode Material Made with Mined Metals Vs. NMC 622 Hydro-to-Cathode® Battery Materials Made with Recycled Materials Using its patented Hydro-to-Cathode® process and recycled materials, Ascend Elements can today manufacture new EV battery material (NMC 622 cathode) at a 49% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional cathode manufacturing processes that rely on primary materials from mining.

In Conversation

In conversation: Tony Persson

Scania AB’s head of battery production Tony Persson explains to Rory Jackson his company’s key role in the development of electric vehicles for demanding applications The race to electrify road vehicles is bringing with it a race to develop internal competencies in producing key e-mobility technologies, and battery packs frequently