Progress in battery technology: TU Braunschweig is setting new standards!

Progress in battery technology: TU Braunschweig is setting new standards!

On August 8, 2025, the focus will be on several significant developments in the field of research and technology at the Technical University of Braunschweig. The GranuGoIn project is being promoted at the TU, in which a granule-based process for electrode coating for lithium-ion batteries is being developed. The main goal of this initiative is to reduce energy consumption and production costs, which should represent a crucial step towards the industrial scaling of sustainable batteries. This research could pave the way for greener and more cost-effective production.

At the same time, the Peter Dornier Foundation Prize 2025 was awarded to Patrick Meyer from the TU Braunschweig and Michael Vorhof from the TU Dresden. Her research focuses on long wings with foldable tips, with the goal of reducing fuel consumption in aircraft. These scientists' ideas have their origins in nature, inspired by the Venus flytrap.

Current research projects and events

In the coming weeks there will be a lecture by Dr. Evelina Wikner from Chalmers University of Technology on the program, which is part of the project “Gender dimensions in MINT research (GeDiMINT)”. On September 2nd she will present the topic “Nuances of Driving Dynamics: Exploring Gender Differences and Technological Implications”. Those interested must register in advance.

The Alexander von Humboldt Foundation is also offering an online information event on the Henriette Herz Scouting Program on August 20th. The aim of the program is to encourage scouts to nominate up to three researchers for a Humboldt fellowship. The Bergen-Belsen Memorial is also showing an exhibition entitled “DrawnTogether” until October 5th, which presents picture books about the Holocaust and is aimed specifically at children between the ages of 8 and 14.

Nights at the Botanical Garden take place on August 12th and 13th to celebrate the blooming of the tropical giant water lily (Victoria cruziana). The Friends of the Braunschweig Botanical Garden e.V. are responsible for the catering. Finally, the training for new trainees at the TU Braunschweig started on August 1st.

Developments in the field of battery technology

Global production of battery cells is expected to increase significantly in the coming years. According to the analysis by Fraunhofer isi.fraunhofer.de The market shares of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) and nickel-manganese-cobalt/nickel-cobalt-aluminum cathodes (NMC-/NCA) will remain high until the end of the decade. These technologies are complementary but have different advantages and disadvantages. LFP cathodes offer safety advantages, while NMC cathodes offer higher energy density and cost reductions.

In electric vehicles that prioritize speed and range, NMC and NCA technologies are more popular. For applications where price is a critical consideration, such as larger vehicles and small cars, LFP batteries are often preferred. These market trends demonstrate the adaptability of technologies to different requirements and applications.

In addition, solid-state batteries are seen as a future solution for electromobility. Initial production plans from companies such as WeLion, Solid Energy Systems and Pro Logium until 2030 show the enormous potential. China leads in manufacturing capacity, while European startups like LionVolt and LeydenJar also have recently announced plans. The technical diversity in the concepts of solid-state batteries, which includes different combinations of anodes, solid electrolytes and cathodes, indicates dynamic developments in this sector.

Advances in research and development promise not only new applications, but also improved energy efficiency and cost-effectiveness for the future of battery technology.