Research Projects

Electrical energy storage systems (EES) are crucial for the energy transition. The “BEST” project aims to develop an innovative process for the production of dry-processed battery electrodes for zinc-ion batteries. This process aims to significantly increase the efficiency and reproducibility of electrode production and eliminate time-consuming steps. By using sustainable PFAS-free binders in combination with innovative technologies, we aim to achieve cost-efficient and environmentally friendly production. | Duration: 02/2025 - 12/2025

Project in the Business Area: Hydrogen Technologies and Electrical Energy Storage; Topic: Battery Cell Technology; Duration: 06/2023 - 05/2025

In all-solid-state batteries the liquid electrolyte is replaced by a solid non-combustible ion conductor. This prevents thermal runaway and significantly increases the safety of battery cells. It also facilitates the use of lithium metal anodes, which makes higher energy densities and thus significantly higher ranges for electric vehicles possible. | Duration: 10/2019 - 09/2022

As part of the “FoFeBat” project, a research production facility for battery cells is being set up. This covers all production steps from mixing the electrode materials to forming the cells. In sub-project 1, Fraunhofer ISE is supporting the development of research production in areas such as forming and end-of-line quality assurance as well as in the fields of energy-efficient building operation management, dry room design and the techno-economic evaluation of operating scenarios. In sub-project 2, Fraunhofer ISE is involved in technology screening for future innovation modules and the development of the pipeline process for their implementation. In sub-project 3, Fraunhofer ISE is planning and setting up a mini-environment test stand that will enable investigations into optimized air flow and energy-optimized operation. | Duration: 10/2019 - 12/2027

FoFeBat3 is part of the overall “FoFeBat” project as sub-project 3 and builds on the successes of the first two sub-projects. The aim is to minimize energy and resource consumption in order to enable a more sustainable and economical production of lithium-ion battery cells in Europe. Research has shown that around 80% of energy consumption in cell production is accounted for by the operating costs of clean and dry rooms and electrode production. We are working on innovative approaches that significantly reduce the CO2 footprint. This involves integrating the latest findings into the entire value chain in order to increase quality and reduce costs. Join us on the road to efficient and resource-saving battery cell production! | Duration: 09/2022 - 08/2027

Project in the Business Area: Hydrogen Technologies and Electrical Energy Storage; Topic: Battery Cell Technology; Duration: 11/2022 - 12/2025

The LAENDLE project is developing a groundbreaking, solvent- and PFAS-free dry coating process for sodium-ion battery electrodes that addresses the challenges of conventional wet coating. IKA-Werke GmbH and Fraunhofer ISE are combining their expertise in mechanical engineering and battery research to promote local value creation in Baden-Württemberg. The added value for the industry lies in the reduction of production costs and resource consumption while improving environmental compatibility. | Duration: 07/2025 - 06/2027

In the course of the expansion of renewable energy sources, the need for stationary storage systems will increase significantly in order to minimize the increasing volatility in electricity generation due to the continuous expansion of renewable energy sources such as photovoltaic and wind power plants. This requires a further increase in the attractiveness of electrochemical energy storage systems. The biggest points of criticism are still the (excessively) high acquisition cost, caused in particular by the high cost of the battery cells and the sustainability of the batteries with regard to critical raw materials. All of these aspects are to be addressed in the “StrOboBatt” project. It focuses on the active materials themselves. The global dependence on certain raw materials is also to be minimized through the used materials and the sustainability of the battery cells is to be improved. | Duration: 06/2024 - 05/2027