Quantifying current density in battery cells

CDO2 has developed the CDA-16 battery current density analyser as a bench-top battery cell analysis and testing system. This works by using our 16cm x 16cm sensor array to generate a current density image of a cell under test. This allows electrochemists and other battery researchers to visualise the spatial distribution of the current flow in a battery cell. This is useful in developing and assessing cell designs to ensure that they are operating as expected, as well as for investigation of cell degradation. It is also of benefit for quality control, ensuring consistency through sample testing.

The aim of this project is to provide quantitative information to verify the algorithm used by CDO2 to infer the current density distribution of a battery from sensor measurements. In order to provide a quantitative reference with an accurately known current density profile, a physical artefact will be created that is representative of a typical battery under test. The proposed artefact will be designed by the instrumentation group at NPL and production will take place using the electronics manufacturing facilities at CDO2\.

As well as providing a quantified calibration of the system under test during the project, the battery physical artefact will be used in future product calibration and testing.