Characterization of electrochemical, thermal, and mechanical performance of 21700 cells with aluminum casing
Auburn University offers an advanced calorimetric analysis of 21700 lithium-ion cells with aluminum casings to assess their electrochemical, thermal, and mechanical performance. This study compares cells with traditional steel casings to aluminum for optimized heat management.
Overview
Auburn University has developed a multifunctional calorimeter to characterize the electrochemical, thermal, and mechanical performance of 21700 lithium-ion cells with aluminum casings. This research aims to determine how aluminum affects cell performance compared to traditional steel casings, focusing on the critical parameter of radial heat transfer. The study includes temperature regulation and precise measurement of capacity, power, heat generation rate, and impedance under various operating conditions.
Technical specifications
Key features:
- Multifunctional Calorimeter: Capable of accurate isothermal control (<±0.1 °C continuous, <±0.5 °C pulse current) and measurement of heat generation rate (HGR) and entropy coefficient.
- Temperature Range: Operates from -30°C to 60°C with an RMSE error of ~5% for HGR.
- Testing Protocols: Includes electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), charging and discharging behavior, continuous and pulse heat generation, hybrid pulse power characterization (HPPC), capacity, and open circuit voltage (OCV) tests.
- X-ray Analysis: Utilized for observing internal micro-structural changes.
Technology readiness level
The technology is at a readiness level of 6, indicating that it has been validated in relevant environments. The next steps involve fabrication and testing of cells with both traditional and aluminum casings to further assess performance differences and potential benefits in real-world applications.
About Auburn University
Auburn University is a comprehensive public land‑grant research university serving industry from its main campus in Auburn, Alabama. Companies engage through a research and technology park offering on‑site convening space and services, and via a Huntsville Research and Innovation Campus embedded in Cummings Research Park near Redstone Arsenal. A long‑standing cooperative education program and a statewide extension network link employers to student talent and field deployment across Alabama. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from agencies such as NSF, USDA, DoD, and NASA. The university’s Intellectual Property Exchange provides IP management, licensing, and commercialization support.
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