Project CAESAR

CAESAR - Cell chemistry based on silicon anode and Nickel-rich oxide cathode – Facilitation by additives and electrolyte optimization

Increasing the specific energy (Wh/kg) or energy density (Wh/l) of battery systems while reducing specific costs (€/kWh) is one of the key challenges for transforming the energy supply away from fossil fuels to energy from regenerative sources. This is especially crucial for mobile applications and the intermediate storage of renewable energy.  The main objective of the project is the development of new high-energy lithium-ion cells based on high-capacity anode and cathode materials along the entire value chain, from material development to the validation of prototypes for mobile, industrial applications such as in the garden power tool segment, as well as the estimation of the potential applications in stationary energy storage systems. In addition to achieving the technical goals (e.g. with regard to energy density and cycle stability), the project clearly aims at the scalability and cost-effectiveness of material and cell production (formats: CoinPower®, 21700 and 5 Ah pouch cells) under application-near conditions and their implementation in prototypes.

Within the framework of the project CAESAR, the Chair of Electrical Energy Storage Technology is focusing on the following research topics:

• Mapping the rate capability of cells with Si-based anodes as a function of tortuosity, using suitable simulation models.
• Development and application of suitable fast charge profiles by simulation and measurement
• Validation of the electrical performance of the manufactured cells in application near cell prototypes in different formats