The correct battery choice: not a matter of chance, but craftsmanship!

With the capacity and power they deliver, they form the beating heart of our energy storage systems. But they also come with significant challenges. Selecting the right battery, based on cell chemistry and configuration, requires in-depth knowledge, research, and calculations. Fortunately, at C-battery, thanks to our extensive experience and wide portfolio of technologies, we have the flexibility to consistently make the right choice for our customers.

The search for the right battery always begins with a good conversation. Together, we clearly map out the needs, applications, and expectations of the customer. With this insight, we then consult with our component suppliers. We carefully weigh the desired performance, costs, and technical requirements to make an informed choice of the most suitable battery. Because there is no such thing as the best battery: each type has its unique pros and cons.

What are the options?

Today, lithium-ion batteries dominate energy storage: rechargeable units that are especially popular due to their high energy density and long lifespan. However, the specific chemistry makes a big difference. NMC (Nickel Manganese Cobalt) is mainly popular in electric vehicles and home batteries due to its high energy density and good performance at low temperatures. LFP (Lithium Iron Phosphate) is the clear favorite in stationary applications where space and weight are less crucial.

This is also the case with our battery containers. LFP batteries last longer, are safer at high temperatures, and contain fewer toxic materials. As a result, they are not only economically but also ecologically more interesting.

In addition to the chemistry, the form factor also plays an important role. Cells can be cylindrical, prismatic, or pouch-shaped: each with its own advantages in terms of capacity, housing, and design. Depending on the application and required cooling, a particular form will either be an advantage or a disadvantage.

What are the next steps?

Due to the unique properties that each cell chemistry possesses, we perform specific calculations for each project, such as state of charge (the "fuel gauge" of a battery) and state of health (the battery capacity compared to when it was new). We do this to ensure that the battery performs optimally and safely.

Heat development is also crucial. Whether air-cooled or liquid-cooled: based on the manufacturer's specifications, we determine which method is most suitable. Then, the systems are sized according to the cell type, usage pattern, and application. This ensures not only optimal performance but also long lifespan and safety.

What does the future bring?

The battery world is not standing still. Solid-State and Semi Solid-State batteries, which use solid electrolytes instead of liquid or gel electrolytes, are on the rise and promise even better performance: with more (fire) safety, higher energy density, faster charging times, and longer lifespan, but without the risk of leakage or defects. Currently, only high production costs are hindering a scale-up to industrial levels.

In addition, sodium, a sustainable and globally available alternative to lithium, is rapidly gaining ground. Especially the potential geopolitical impact is enormous: thanks to sodium, Europe could become less dependent on Chinese lithium mines, which would improve supply security and price stability.

Whatever the challenges may be, C-battery is ready for the future. As a European manufacturer, we stay close to our customers to understand their precise needs.

Thanks to translating that proximity into sustainable energy solutions, we are building together towards a world where reliable, efficient, and resilient energy storage is the norm.