Problem Definition & Goals
Current lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) are approaching their practical limits in terms of energy density, increasing the need for next-generation technologies such as lithium-metal batteries (LMBs). LMBs offer higher theoretical capacity and energy density, but face challenges such as dendrite formation, which limit battery safety and lifespan.
Innovation & Knowledge Development
A core focus of the project is the early and reliable detection of lithium dendrites using non-invasive, cost-effective methods suitable for integration into Battery Management Systems (BMS). Key research questions include: how to detect dendrites early and reliably, whether established methods such as electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) are suitable for real-time monitoring, whether electrochemical signals or other indicators can predict dendrite formation, and how detection systems can be integrated into existing BMS architectures.
Technical Approach
The project adapts laboratory dendrite detection techniques for industrial use, focusing on EIS and validating performance across multiple cells. The research methodology combines in situ EIS, structured cycling experiments, and post-mortem quantification, including optical and SEM imaging, to analyze both dendrite formation and growth. This allows for determination of the number of dendrites formed, their concentration, the conditions under which they form, and which parts of the EIS spectrum provide the most relevant information. This approach will generate new knowledge about practical, scalable dendrite detection methods and their integration into commercial battery technologies.