Visit to ZSW

Exploring Battery Innovation – Visit to ZSW in Ulm

Around 25 researchers from the POLiS Cluster of Excellence and the Graduate School Electrochemical Energy Storage (GS-EES) had the great opportunity to visit the Center for Solar Energy and Hydrogen Research (ZSW) in Ulm - a key player in applied battery research and technology transfer in Germany.

The visit started with an engaging keynote by Prof. Dr. Markus Hölzle, board member of ZSW, who shared valuable insights into the current landscape of energy storage technologies, the role of applied research, and ZSW’s contribution to driving innovation in the battery sector.

One of the highlights was the guided tour through the Powder-Up! pilot plant, led by Peter Axmann. We explored the challenges and possibilities of scaling up the synthesis of active materials for future energy storage systems.

This was followed by a tour of the ZSW’s cell production facility, expertly guided by Margret Wohlfahrt-Mehrens. There, we were introduced to the entire process chain of lithium-ion cell manufacturing - from slurry mixing to cell assembly and formation. Seeing this industrial-scale line in operation provided valuable context for our fundamental research within POLiS.

This excursion was not only scientifically enriching but also a great opportunity to strengthen the dialogue between fundamental and applied research.

A big thank you to the whole team at ZSW for the warm welcome, the in-depth discussions, and for sharing your expertise!