Publicly-funded research projects

As part of the TIME research project, we are working with our partners to develop smart measurement technology that monitors production processes in real time. Using artificial intelligence and advanced laser technology, defects can be detected early on and material properties can be analyzed with precision. The goal is to integrate this solution directly into an industrial pilot plant, thereby sustainably improving the quality and efficiency of electrode manufacturing.

The SOLID project is investigating the potential for a local value chain for solid-state batteries in North Rhine-Westphalia. The focus is on the transfer of existing technologies, energy-efficient production concepts, and sustainable material solutions.

The OnBASYS project is developing a safe and efficient battery storage system based on sodium-ion cells. This technology offers a sustainable alternative to conventional batteries, as the raw materials are more readily available and the fire risk is lower. In addition, the project is developing innovative solutions to further improve performance and safety.

The “Server” research project is developing an innovative plant and process concept for more efficient and cost-effective battery cell finishing. Through serial interconnection during formation and optimized processes, energy efficiency, service life, and sustainability are expected to be significantly improved.

Without lithium-ion batteries, electric mobility and thus an important field of application for renewable energies would be unthinkable in its current form. In order for such batteries to be manufactured in large quantities at lower cost than before, the necessary production processes must become faster, more efficient, and more cost-effective. In the “ECO-iL-DRY” research project, scientists are therefore developing a laser hybrid dryer that can dry battery foils faster, more energy-efficiently, and with better quality than conventional methods.

How can production waste be efficiently reintegrated into cell manufacturing? In the RECLAIM project, production waste from battery cell manufacturing is efficiently processed and reused through delamination. This approach enables significant savings in costs and CO₂ emissions and strengthens local material cycles.

Sodium instead of lithium – the “SIB:DE” project is looking into promising battery tech based on sodium ions and how it can be integrated into existing production lines. Learn more about the “SIB:DE” project here.

Even the smallest particles can have a huge impact on battery cell manufacturing: they affect cell performance and, in extreme cases, can lead to thermal runaway. In the “SiPaFeb” research project, we are developing an inline detection system that monitors particle contamination on the production line in real time and issues early warnings of critical conditions based on the collected process data.

The “AIMACC” research project aims to optimize the forming process. This is achieved through real-time control of the forming flow using simulation and AI models based on 2D pressure and temperature sensors.

The SpuRo project develops analytical methods to generate unique “fingerprints” of battery raw materials in their ores or their commercial forms (CAM and pCAM). These fingerprints will feed into a database that enables traceability from primary sources (mining) or secondary sources (recycling) to cell production.