Danubia Nanotech addresses the issue of thermal management of EV batteries in particular, through the development of the proprietary graphene-based thin-film thermal sensor. Thermal sensing is crucial in many applications, however li-ion batteries used in the electric vehicles and elsewhere are particularly sensitive to temperature changes – if the temperature is too high, the battery’s longevity decreases due to unwanted chemical reactions and overheating can lead to safety hazards, namely explosion of the battery. On the other hand, a battery under the optimal temperature range loses its energy. Thermal sensors are thus a key part of the battery management system and thermal management system in electric vehicles, as they provide data for managing the battery functions. Danubia utilizes its exceptional in-house developed graphene to coat foil sensor, to measure temperature across large areas using the principle of resistance thermometer. The 2D character of the foil, its flexibility and simple application onto the individual cells making up the larger battery pack offer not only great measurement performance but also generate savings for pack producers.
Danubia’s team consists of Patrik Krizansky – CEO and business development specialist, who focuses in the EV and electromobility field; Viliam Vretenar, a researcher at the Slovak Technical University and the Max-Planck Institute responsible for technology and product development; and Jan Hudec, engineer specialized in measurement, sensors, and robotics. The innovative potential of the product was recognized by the jury of the European PowerUp! By InnoEnergy competition, where Danubia NanoTech was awarded the first place.