2016 R&D 100 Award

Green Tech Special Recognition

Technology: Precision High Power Battery Tester (PHPBT)

Developers:

• Sandia National Laboratories
• Arbin Instruments
• U.S. DOE – Office of Electricity, Energy Storage Program
• Montana Tech
• Ford Motor Company

The PHPBT uses high-precision charge/discharge test measurements at up to 200A current to capture electrochemical measurements such as coulombic efficiency with greater accuracy than was previously possible at currents applicable to EV and stationary storage applications. The goal is to detect minute signs of battery degradation earlier than previous testing, providing insight into a battery’s long-term capabilities and enabling engineers to better select feasible technologies from those needing more development.