Batteries are integral to modern technology, powering devices from portable electronics like smartphones and laptops to electric vehicles and large-scale energy storage systems that support smart grids and renewable energy sources. Battery manufacturers utilise diverse fabrication technologies and testing methods to optimise performance and reliability.
This course offers students both theoretical knowledge and practical principles of lithium-ion battery cell fabrication and testing. Through virtual battery testers, students will gain hands-on experience in a simulated environment, enhancing their understanding of real-world applications.
Course contents
The course comprises five lectures:
- Introduction to various battery architectures
- Battery components and cell fabrication methods
- Overview of battery cell testing
- Testing protocol design and best practices
- Novel systems and advancements in battery technologies
In addition to lectures, students will access virtual battery testers via the Moodle platform. Based on these virtual laboratories, students are required to compose a report summarizing their completed exercises.
Students will be divided into groups to prepare and present on selected topics to the entire class (one life session), fostering collaboration and in-depth exploration of specific areas.
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing this course, the student will be able to
- Identify and classify battery cell architectures: Understand different battery designs and categorise them based on structure and functionality
- Recognize advantages and disadvantages of various battery chemistries: Evaluate the pros and cons of different battery materials and chemistries
- Explain methods of battery cell fabrication: Describe various fabrication techniques used in producing battery cells
- Compare battery cell testing methods: Classify and assess different methods used for testing battery cells
- Interpret and sssess battery testing results: Analyse testing data to evaluate battery performance and reliability
- Design basic test protocols for battery cells: Develop testing procedures tailored to specific battery types and applications.
Course material
Lecture slides and video recordings of lectures. Virtual battery testers: Interactive simulations accessible via the Moodle platform.
Teaching schedule
The course will have four lectures that are recorded.
- Introduction, 2nd of April
- Battery Chemistries, 16th of April
- Battery Fabrication, 22nd of April
- Battery Testing, 29th of April
Completion methods
To successfully complete the course, students are required to:
- Complete the virtual laboratory exercises and submit a comprehensive report: You have access to a virtual battery tester in Moodle. Conduct various simulations according to the instructions in the file available below the virtual battery tester screen. Submit a report by the 31st of May.
- Actively participate in group work, including the preparation and presentation of a selected topic: Each group or individual is requested to prepare a presentation (about a selected topic out of the list provided below). To avoid the same topic, the group/individual should inform about their topic selection by email: rafal.sliz@oulu.fi, no later than the 2nd of April. The video (can be a link to a shared video) shall be shared with the teacher no later than the 15th of April. Also, the group/individual has to submit the presentation (.pptx) to rafal.sliz@oulu.fi. Individuals who fail to submit the video with the presentation assignment will be removed from the course. In the video presentation each group/individual should present their slides – 15 min. The presentation shall have 10 to 15 slides.
More information in the University of Oulu study guide.
You can get a digital badge after completing this course.