Battery Technologies – Technical Trends, Hazard Potential and Testing Requirements

The global battery market is experiencing exponential growth, currently driven by the electrification of transport and the expansion of renewable energy, along with the associated demand for stationary battery storage systems. At the same time, economies of scale, the continuous introduction of new cell and battery designs, and increasing market competition are leading to declining cell and battery pack prices.

In addition to the ongoing advancement of established lithium-ion technologies, new cell chemistries are increasingly coming into focus, particularly sodium-ion and solid-state batteries. These technologies promise advantages in terms of resource availability, cost structure, energy density, and safety.

However, technological innovation is accompanied by evolving hazard potentials. While lithium-ion batteries are primarily characterized by risks such as thermal runaway, fire, and explosion, sodium-ion batteries exhibit partially different electrochemical and thermal properties that require new evaluation criteria. Solid-state batteries are considered potentially safer due to their non-liquid electrolytes, yet they introduce new challenges regarding mechanical stability, interfacial reactions, and possible internal short circuits. In addition, higher energy densities and novel material systems are changing risk profiles at the cell, module, and system levels.

These developments result in an increased need for adapted testing procedures and enhanced safety assessments. Our VDE battery laboratories support customers throughout the entire development process, from early-stage testing to final certification.

We look forward to your participation in our free online seminar.