A joint research project by Helmholtz Institute Münster (HI MS; IMD-4) of Forschungszentrum Jülich and rhd instruments GmbH & Co. KG (RHD) has achieved significant progress in the characterisation of solid electrolytes, which are central materials for next-generation battery technologies. The project, named “STAMPF”, was launched in September 2022 and received funding of 500,000 euros from the Federal Ministry for Research, Technology and Space (BMFTR) (funding reference 03XP0497).
The full title of the project “Standardised measurement and processing protocols and automated evaluation of impedance data for solid electrolytes” reflects the goals of the project: the development of a best-practice guide, customised test cells and software solutions for the automated evaluation of electrochemical impedance data. The aim is to significantly improve the reproducibility and validity of ionic conductivity measurements of solid electrolytes.
Lack of Standardisation Remains a Challenge
“Solid electrolytes are a key component of solid-state batteries. However, they are not yet available in the quality and quantity required for industrial applications,” explains Prof. Dr Nella Vargas-Barbosa from the University of Bayreuth (formerly Helmholtz Institute Münster). “A key problem is the lack of standardisation in electrochemical characterisation of such samples,” adds Dr Fariza Kalyk. “With STAMPF, we are systematically investigating how different sample processing and measurement protocols influence the conductivity results.”
Dr Marcel Drüschler from RHD emphasises the complexity of the project: “In addition to the best practice guide, we have developed our own test cells as well as standardised and semi-automated evaluation routines in order to sustainably improve the measurement quality.”
New Tools for the Scientific Community
“Over the past three years, we have jointly achieved the goals we set ourselves and can now provide research groups in the field of solid-state batteries with very valuable new tools. These include the results of systematic investigations into the factors influencing conductivity, customised test cells including useful tools, and software that enables largely automated evaluation of impedance data,” says Dr Lars Pescara from RHD, outlining the key achievements of the project.
The results of the STAMPF project make a significant contribution to the further development of solid electrolyte research. At the same time, the project represents an important first step on the way to generally accepted and standardised processing and measurement methods. The partners involved are optimistic about future joint projects in order to continue along this path.
Contact person:
Dr Fariza Kalyk – f.kalyk@fz-juelich.de
Dr. Marcel Drüschler – drueschler@rhd-instruments.de
