The Problem:
Repurposing used electric vehicle (EV) batteries, originally intended for transportation, requires assessing their degradation, health, performance, and safety for alternative applications. Presently, this evaluation relies on the conventional power grid, which has limitations related to accessibility, location, stability, reliability, and compatibility. Additionally, charging and discharging processes result in substantial operational expenses and wasted power, demanding a robust power source, well-established grid infrastructure, and costly hardware.
The Solution:
Researchers at the University of Alabama have developed a novel battery characterization system that enables two batteries to charge and recharge independently, eliminating the need for reliance on the power grid. It concurrently measures the properties of both batteries during charging cycles, providing a comprehensive evaluation. The inclusion of a controller to manage charging cycles and reintegrate dissipated power significantly reduces energy waste, making it more efficient and sustainable approach for repurposing EV batteries.
Benefits: