The declared aim of the electrochemistry and batteries research network is to address fundamental questions relating to materials, components and systems for electromobility and electricity storage. One main focus of will be on developing new materials and functional components for future battery types such as lithium sulfur and lithium air batteries.
Leading worldwide electrochemistry and battery experts have been brought on board to pursue these objectives. The R&D network is a long-term project and will be expanded by including further international partners in the next few years. Involved initially are:
- Professor Jürgen Janek, Gießen University, Germany;
- Professor Hubert Gasteiger, Munich Technical University, Germany;
- Professor Petr Novak, Paul-Scherrer Institute, Villigen, Switzerland;
- Professor Doron Aurbach, Bar-Ilan University, Israel.
Concurrently with the new academic R&D network, BASF is continuing its commitment to the LIB 2015 Initiative of the Germany Federal Ministry of Research (BMBF). The initiative aims to bring to market by 2015 higher performing, safe and affordable lithium ion batteries for future propulsion systems such as plug-in hybrid cars.