St Petersburg University to set up a laboratory for energy-efficient and safe batteries

The laboratory will promote research, development and other initiatives of mutual interest. Its priority areas will include:

• developing efficient mathematical models of independent energy sources and batteries
• building a methodological apparatus for developing relevant models and conducting comprehensive test programmes
• developing digital twins to estimate lithium battery parameters
• conducting comprehensive research to develop mathematical, energy, electrochemical, acceleration processes and mechanisms to ensure product safety

’There is no modern technology without batteries. They have become an integral part of our lives, which we take for granted. However, their emergence and rapid development is a result of the efforts of the best scientists from all over the world. I feel proud to know that they include the researchers from St Petersburg University. I am sure that with the new laboratory, the work of our scientists will reach a new level. The laboratory shall be established jointly with our long-standing partner Rigel, one of the key producers and developers of lithium-ion batteries in Russia’, said Sergey Mikushev, Vice-Rector for Research at St Petersburg University.

Researchers from St Petersburg University have already proven successful in developing new batteries and improving existing ones. It is worth reminding that chemists from St Petersburg University have developed a lithium-ion battery fire protection technology, and a new battery that can recharge ten times faster than lithium-ion batteries and is safer — both in terms of its ignition probability and the impact of its disposal on the environment.

Given Rigel’s competence in developing and producing batteries and accumulators and its active cooperation within existing agreements with St Petersburg University, we can guarantee an increase in the reliability and safety of lithium-ion batteries. This is a priority issue for the development of production technology.

Evgenii Vlasov, General Director of Battery Company Rigel

The Battery Company Rigel is one of the leaders in its field in Russia. With the emergence of strategic investors and new R&D cooperation, the company has diversified its markets to target the civilian sector. Today, with its state-of-the-art automated production lines for lithium-ion batteries and accumulators, Rigel conducts research and development in autonomous and uninterruptible power supply systems, independent current sources for communications, transport and commercial markets.

The cooperation with St Petersburg University is part of the strategic programme of Rigel to modernise equipment and technology for the production of lithium-ion batteries, with investments of up to 200 million roubles.