Report
Teaser, summary, work performed and final results
Periodic Reporting for period 1 - DANUBIAGRAPH (The graphene-based resistance temperature sensors application)
Teaser
Danubia Nanotech addresses the issue of thermal management of EV batteries in particular, through the development of the proprietary graphene-based thin-film thermal sensor. Thermal sensing is crucial in many applications, however li-ion batteries used in the electric vehicles...
Summary
Danubia Nanotech addresses the issue of thermal management of EV batteries in particular, through the development of the proprietary graphene-based thin-film thermal sensor. Thermal sensing is crucial in many applications, however li-ion batteries used in the electric vehicles and elsewhere are particularly sensitive to temperature changes – if the temperature is too high, the battery’s longevity decreases due to unwanted chemical reactions and overheating can lead to safety hazards, namely explosion of the battery. On the other hand, a battery under the optimal temperature range loses its energy. Thermal sensors are thus a key part of the battery management system and thermal management system in electric vehicles, as they provide data for managing the battery functions. Danubia utilizes its exceptional in-house developed graphene to coat foil sensor, to measure temperature across large areas using the principle of resistance thermometer. The 2D character of the foil, its flexibility and simple application onto the individual cells making up the larger battery pack offer not only great measurement performance but also generate savings for pack producers.
Danubia’s team consists of Patrik Krizansky – CEO and business development specialist, who focuses in the EV and electromobility field; Viliam Vretenar, a researcher at the Slovak Technical University and the Max-Planck Institute responsible for technology and product development; and Jan Hudec, engineer specialized in measurement, sensors, and robotics. The innovative potential of the product was recognized by the jury of the European PowerUp! By InnoEnergy competition, where Danubia NanoTech was awarded the first place.
Work performed
The feasibility assessment focused on technical as well as commercial validity of the project. Firstly, the manufacturing process was improved, manifesting the ability to produce graphene and sensors in larger quantities with proprietary machinery. Secondly, Danubia Nanotech performed an initial search for partners for piloting in battery packs and reached preliminary cooperation agreements with two entities. Thirdly, a market and value chain analysis was performed in order to understand the EV vertical, optimal entry points into the market and the regulatory burdens to consider. Lastly, financial projections were fine-tuned, taking into account expert feedback and market analysis as well as the upcoming restructuralization of the company due to incoming investments.
Final results
The team perfected the production of graphene and the coating technology, while developing partnerships with suppliers and potential customers. The next step is a mid-size pilot of both sensor production and sensor usage in real operating environment. Danubia’s technology, as all Innovation in the field of electromobility, decreases the costs of the technology and contribute to faster uptake by the general public, contributing to the fight against the climate change. Danubia’s sensor is closely linked to the electromobility sector, as the electric vehicle vertical is the first market segment to tackle. The segment was chosen due to interest of the team in the EV sector and its projected massive growth, opening commercial possibilities. The feasibility assessment validated the value proposition of the sensor for the selected market segment and formulated recommendations for its commercialization. The overall conclusion stemming from the feasibility assessment is to continue developing the graphene sensor.
Website & more info
More info: http://www.danubiananotech.com.