SINTEF carry out projects in collaboration with both private industry and the public sector, focusing on developing the sustainable batteries and charging infrastructure of the future.
Until recently, the main focus of battery technology has been on portable electronics and mobility, for example, batteries for electric cars. However, over the past few years, interest has increased in integrating batteries into the power grid or using batteries as intermediate storage for renewable sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines.
As society continues to electrify, the current power grid will struggle to manage peak loads caused by charging cars, ships, small boats, trains – eventually even planes – and other battery-operated electronics. By integrating batteries into the energy system, it is possible to shift energy consumption and reduce peak loads in the power grid. Batteries can also be used for enhanced frequency response, and they will make solar and wind power more favourable for energy-intensive industries, as batteries can store energy from sunshine and gusts of wind until it is needed.
However, if we are to use electrification to its full potential, batteries alone are not enough. We also need a sufficient charging structure for cars, boats and planes.
At SINTEF, we are developing new solutions for everything from battery modules and larger battery systems, including battery management and cooling, to new charging systems. The circular economy and sustainability (such as reusing and recycling older batteries) are reoccurring topics and always a focus in all our research on energy storage, system integration and charging infrastructure.
We work with the following topics:
- Battery management systems (BMS)
- Reuse of batteries from cars and ferries as well as graphite recycling
- Integration of batteries in larger systems (including high-voltage systems over 1000 V) for both stationary and mobile applications
- Charging infrastructures
- Cooling systems for batteries and battery thermal management
- Development of components for high-voltage applications
- Life cycle analyses (LCAs) and material flow analyses (MFA)
Our typical projects include:
- Working with industry partners to further develop materials and production processes
- Testing battery cells and modules, and assessing propoerties, degradation and cycle life
- Integrating batteries into energy systems, including simulations and experimental testing
- Developing charging systems for mobility, including wireless charging
- Developing models for integrated energy systems
- Developing control and management systems for batteries and larger energy systems
- Developing cooling technology for larger battery systems
Who do we do this for?
- Battery cell manufacturers
- Manufacturers of battery modules and packs
- Energy and grid companies
- End users within the maritime industry (e.g. shipyards, shipowners)
- End users within both the public and private sector (e.g. county authorities, municipalities, construction companies, property companies, ports)
