Math2Market has validated a new method based on so-called Gaussian Random Fields (GRF) to generate a Digital Twin of an electrode microstructure.

In Fig. 1, the Digital Twin (left) is shown next to the original, segmented nanoCT scan of a graphite anode. Porosity, binder fraction, tortuosity, diffusivity, and pore size distribution, as well as particle size distribution, match within statistical deviations.

Fig. 1 Digital twin of the microstructure of a graphite anode (left) compared to the original, real microstructure segmented from a nanoCT scan. The graphite active material is shown in gray and the binder (Carbon Black and Binder Domain (CBD)) is shown in red.

With the help of this new method, even more detailed digital models can be created for the project. A method for microembossing the anodes is being developed as part of the project: Holes are made in the anode in the direction of transport with a stamp or with a laser to improve ion transport, which enables faster charging of the battery. The digital models can be used, for example, to virtually test which hole spacing and hole depth is ideal.