Can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your NDT background?
I’m Jens, a PhD student at the University of Stuttgart.
I embarked on my research journey two years ago after completing my master’s degree.
My focus in Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) revolves around Ultrasonic Testing (UT), particularly in investigating battery properties using ultrasonic waves.
Before diving into this research with TPAC’s Pilot +, I started with another UT device, but it had limited channels and was industrial focused. This prompted me to seek a more research-oriented solution.
What are the main research areas at the University of Stuttgart ?
The University of Stuttgart encompasses a wide array of research domains, including the development of energy storage systems.
Within the department of electrical energy storage systems (EES), I’m focused on developing measurement devices to investigate battery properties.
Why did you choose ultrasonic testing (UT) for battery research?
Ultrasonic Testing (UT) emerged as a powerful tool for battery research, especially following Princeton University’s groundbreaking research in 2015, which highllighed the possibility to measure battery properties with ultrasonic waves
UT is a novel approach to physically determine the SoC and the SoH of batteries. The battery group at the Institute of Photovoltaics (ipv) at the University of Stuttgart consists of approximately 15 individuals. On my side, I am focusing on the development and utilization of ultrasonic testing in the field of batteries.
Can you share your experience and challenges from your first project with TPAC?
I’m working on the measurement of the State of Charge (SoC) and State of Health (SoH) arial distribution for pouch and round cells.
One of the goals for the future is to have the ability to measure certain sections or even single layers.
TPAC was providing me the device and the MATLAB platform, with which I’m able to write my own customize measuring program and adjust all the ultrasonic measuring parameters.
What do you value most about working with TPAC on NDT projects, and how do we stand out from other suppliers?
Can you see future projects where UT techniques could be useful?
Absolutely. As we delve deeper into battery research, the need for advanced UT techniques becomes increasingly apparent. Future projects may require devices with more channels to accommodate diverse measurement needs.
Furthermore, UT techniques hold immense potential in process monitoring, particularly in assessing battery production quality standards and ensuring efficient manufacturing processes.
How would you summarize your experience with TPAC and its impact on your NDT projects?
So far, my experience with TPAC has been exceptionally positive. I’ve truly appreciated the direct support provided throughout our collaboration. Having the opportunity to interact with knowledgeable individuals during my visit to TPAC’s facility in Nantes was invaluable.
It allowed me to address specific challenges, such as programming settings, with ease. Moreover, the efficiency of the entire process—from the decision to purchase the device to its delivery and the subsequent visit to TPAC’s facility—has been remarkable.
Compared to other suppliers, TPAC’s device, coupled with its open software for Matlab, stands out as the preferred choice for its superior functionality and customization options.
"So far, my experience with TPAC has been exceptionally positive"
Jens Meyer
