Multi-layer dielectric elastomers managing swelling of battery systems

Martin S, Franke J, Risch F (2025)


Publication Type: Conference contribution

Publication year: 2025

Journal

Publisher: SPIE

Book Volume: 13431

Conference Proceedings Title: Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering

Event location: Vancouver, BC, CAN

ISBN: 9781510686489

DOI: 10.1117/12.3050834

Abstract

The expansion and contraction of high power batteries with Si-based anodes or Li-metal-based anodes during their charge-discharge cycles poses a significant challenge to their reliability and lifetime. This volumetric swelling can lead to structural damage and premature failure, making it critical to develop advanced solutions to monitor and control this phenomenon. As the demand for batteries increases due to the growing adoption of renewable energy systems and electric vehicles, ensuring their durability and consistent performance has become a pressing need. This paper presents a novel concept for a battery system for pouch and prismatic cell formats that addresses the challenges associated with battery swelling during charging. The proposed solution utilizes a multi-layer configuration of dielectric elastomers between the battery cells, arranged in various orientations and configurations. Two lattice structured flexible electrodes enable high-resolution localized pressure monitoring, providing accurate data on swelling behavior. This data is used as a control signal for active regulation, with individual actuator elements applying localized pressure to counteract swelling and protect the structural integrity of the battery. In addition, actuator layers can be activated to manage assembly and disassembly processes, but remain passive during normal operation. We present the concept alongside the development of demonstrators to validate its core functionalities. Initial results illustrate the operating principle and demonstrate effective mitigation of swelling in pouch and prismatic cells using incompressible fluids at varying pressures.

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How to cite

APA:

Martin, S., Franke, J., & Risch, F. (2025). Multi-layer dielectric elastomers managing swelling of battery systems. In Stefan S. Seelecke, Anne Ladegaard Skov, Kentaro Takagi, John D. W. Madden (Eds.), Proceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering. Vancouver, BC, CAN: SPIE.

MLA:

Martin, Sina, Jörg Franke, and Florian Risch. "Multi-layer dielectric elastomers managing swelling of battery systems." Proceedings of the 2025 Electroactive Polymer Actuators, Sensors, and Devices, EAPAD 2025, Vancouver, BC, CAN Ed. Stefan S. Seelecke, Anne Ladegaard Skov, Kentaro Takagi, John D. W. Madden, SPIE, 2025.

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