Creating new cobalt-free lithium-ion battery technology to address the current shortcomings of electric vehicle batteries
By comprehensively upgrading every component in the battery system, the COBRA project is developing a new unique battery system which merges several features including superior energy density, low cost, increased cycles and reduced critical materials to remedy many of the current shortcomings in electric vehicle (EV) batteries. This new lithium-ion battery technology is to be demonstrated at TRL6 (battery pack) and validated on an automotive EV testbed.
The project’s innovation ensures easy adaptation to production lines and higher market uptake while also helping to enhance Europe’s position in the field.
Eurecat’s Waste, Energy and Environmental Impact (WEEI) Unit is involved in the project by leading the development of semi-empirical electrochemical models based on the physics involved in the batteries and the assessment of the batteries’ state-of-charge and health status to compare the performance of the various generations of cells developed.
WEEI will also carry out computational fluid dynamics simulations and thermal behaviour models of the cells under cell charge and discharge conditions with the goal of ensuring the optimal working conditions in battery application in EVs required when making decisions about the design of the packaging of the batteries.
In addition, to ensure high accuracy in the model, the Unit is also participating in standard tests to characterise the parameters needed for optimum performance and durability of the batteries.
Lastly, the WEEI Unit will carry out a life cycle assessment of the newly developed batteries in the project and a study of a second life use of these batteries when no longer used in EVs and will determine the recyclability of the newly developed materials.
Finally, the Product Development Unit is tasked with optimal design of the battery packaging which also includes an optimal cooling system to ensure perfect working conditions and minimise the degradation of this new type of batteries and thereby extend their useful life.
The COBRA project is led by the Catalonia Energy Research Institute (IREC) and has a consortium made up of 19 leading battery manufacture organisations and entities.
Programme and call: Project funded by the H2020 programme under the call H2020-EU.3.4. – SOCIETAL CHALLENGES – Smart, Green And Integrated Transport
Period: 2020-2024
