Entry requirements

Degree at the basic level corresponding to at least 180 credits, including 75 credits within chemistry and/or engineering chemistry. Proficiency in English equivalent to the Swedish upper secondary course English 6.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the course, the student should be able to:

• discuss the importance of production and storage of energy in a society with increasing use of renewable energy sources,
• analyse basic operating principles for modern energy production and energy storage technologies,
• present the advantages and disadvantages of different energy storage mechanisms (thermal, mechanical, electromagnetic, chemical, electrochemical energy, etc.),
• explain and compare basic societal, techno-economic and geopolitical aspects of different energy storage techniques,
• compare different styles of oral and written presentations.

Content

Introduction to studies in battery technology and energy storage. Energy production & storage is introduced and discussed in a broader perspective of sustainable societies and renewable energy. The importance of electrochemical energy storage in relation to other forms of energy storage is highlighted and discussed in terms of economic, environmental and cost estimates. Thermal (coal, oil, gas), nuclear, hydro, geothermal, waves, tidal, wind, solar power are reviewed. Basic function and configuration of electrochemical cells for energy storage such as batteries (primary and secondary), fuel cells, and supercapacitors are presented. Li-ion batteries are used as examples to discuss the general composition, shape, and function of anodes, cathodes, electrolytes. Concepts such as battery materials, cells, packs and systems are presented with respect to their optimal usage area, such as portable electronics, transportation, and smart grids. Overview of emerging digital methodologies, such as analysis, simulation, and surveillance in the field of research and development of energy storage. Presentation techniques, report writing, and scientific conduct are presented and practiced. Equal opportunities with respect to to all grounds of discrimination.

Instruction

Lectures, seminars, lab exercises.

Assessment

Written exam  (3 credits). Lab exercises (1 credits). Seminars (1 credit). 

If there are special reasons for doing so, an examiner may make an exception from the method of assessment indicated and allow a student to be assessed by another method. An example of special reasons might be a certificate regarding special pedagogical support from the disability coordinator of the university.