How does computed tomography for batteries work?

Computed tomography (CT) is an advanced imaging technique used in many fields, including battery technology. Computed tomography for batteries enables a detailed examination of the internal structure and composition of batteries without destroying them. This technique is particularly useful for quality control and troubleshooting in industrial battery production processes.

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But how exactly does computed tomography for batteries work? Computed tomography (CT) for batteries is an imaging technique that uses X-rays to create three-dimensional images of the internal structure of batteries. This non-invasive technique enables the analysis and monitoring of battery composition and performance. It is particularly useful for quality control, troubleshooting and monitoring ageing processes. The knowledge gained supports the development of more efficient and longer-lasting batteries.

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What is computed tomography?

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Computed tomography, often referred to as CT, is an advanced imaging technology. It provides detailed three-dimensional images of internal structures, enabling precise and comprehensive analysis - an invaluable tool in modern industrial measurement.

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This technology is also very useful for batteries. Find out what it's all about now.

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How does the technology work?

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In terms of technical processes, the question often arises: How does computed tomography technology work? Basically, computed tomography uses X-rays to produce detailed images of the inside of a component. An X-ray machine produces a series of images of a rotating component. These images are then combined by a computer to create a detailed cross-sectional image. Each of these images shows a tiny, flat "slice" of the component.

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How is it used in battery research?

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It will now be interesting to see how computed tomography for batteries is applied in battery research. In this area, the technology is having a significant impact by helping to visualize and analyze the internal structure of batteries. By providing detailed 3D images, computed tomography enables the investigation of electrode structure and electrolyte distribution, which are crucial for battery performance. In addition, the anode protrusion, for example, can be measured.

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Technological aspects of computed tomography

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From the automotive industry to medicine - computed tomography is one of the most important achievements in technology today. Computed tomography technology is based on the generation and evaluation of X-rays. An X-ray beam is sent through the object to be examined and the absorption of the beam is measured. The resulting absorption value provides information about the internal structure of the examined object. A computer tomograph generates a three-dimensional image from these absorption values.

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CT-based analysis in battery research

Examining the internal structure of a 12V battery, for example, using computer tomography provides important insights into the optimization of battery materials. This technique also allows effective monitoring of battery ageing processes, which promises improved service life and performance. Computed tomography is a useful tool for damage analysis of defective batteries as well as for preventive quality assurance . The process helps to identify and rectify design and material problems. 

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How can the internal structures of batteries be investigated?

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Computed tomography is used in battery research to examine the internal structures of batteries. It enables a detailed view of the internal structures without destroying the battery. 

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What insights can we gain?

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The insights that can be gained through the use of computed tomography in battery research are remarkable. Thanks to this technique, it is possible to track structural changes within batteries. It has been recognized that the chemical reactions that take place during the charging and discharging process influence the internal structures of the batteries and play an important role. This in turn can lead to reduced performance and service life.

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Examination of battery materials

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By examining battery materials using CT, detailed insights into their structure and composition can be gained. This technology makes it possible to detect even the smallest changes and irregularities that would not be visible to the naked eye.

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What equipment is needed for computed tomography?

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In computed tomography, there are different types of tomographs that require special properties. These include radiation from X-rays and devices for image reconstruction. X-rays play a crucial role and require careful handling. The process of image reconstruction is an essential aspect of computed tomography and requires specialized software.

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What types of computer tomographs are there?

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From the use of computed tomography in battery research, we now move on to the question of what equipment is needed for this. We will start with an overview of the different types of computer tomographs. In principle, there are two main types:

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• Medical computer tomographs: These are primarily used in hospitals and clinics. Their main purpose is to produce highly detailed images of structures within the human body.

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• Industrial computer tomographs: This type of CT device is mainly used in technical and industrial areas.

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What equipment is needed to use the technology?

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From the perspective of battery research, it is now time to look at the necessary equipment for computed tomography. A range of equipment is required to utilize this state-of-the-art technology. In addition to high-performance computers for analyzing the CT data, for example, the computer tomograph itself is of course essential. This device generates images using the aforementioned X-rays, which hit the object to be examined at different angles. Particularly when it comes to analyzing batteries, high-performance industrial CT scanners are required. Examples of such CT scanners are the ZEISS METROTOM 1500 G3 or the ZEISS VoluMax 9 titan.

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Use of X-rays

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The importance of X-rays in computed tomography should not be underestimated. They are a key component in this process. X-rays penetrate the object to be examined, in this case a battery, and generate a two-dimensional image on a detector. The radiation is absorbed differently depending on the material density and material composition. Particularly powerful X-ray sources are required to analyze batteries. In combination with a large number of X-ray images from different angles, valuable information about the internal structure of the battery can be obtained.

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What future applications can computed tomography have for batteries?

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Computed tomography technology enables new developments for a battery requiring maintenance and maintenance-free variants by making the internal structure of batteries visible. It opens up ways to identify faults and defects and to monitor battery ageing. This also opens up new avenues and possibilities in the preventive quality control of batteries.

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What new developments in battery research does this technology enable?

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The precise insights into the internal architecture of battery cells offered by computed tomography open up new possibilities in battery research. Accordingly, computed tomography is a step that has revolutionized the research field of battery technology. The technology makes it possible to examine the internal structure of a modern, state-of-the-art battery by creating high-resolution, three-dimensional images without physically destroying the battery. This non-invasive method allows safe operation during the visualization of material changes and during the analysis of battery components on a microscopic level. Computed tomography thus supports the development of more efficient and longer-lasting batteries and other battery items. 

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There is also new potential with regard to battery research. For example, researchers can investigate the behavior and performance of batteries under different conditions as they have a detailed view of their internal components such as electrodes and electrolytes.

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This is particularly important when investigating degradation processes that affect the service life and performance of batteries. By understanding and visualizing these processes with the help of computer tomography, battery technology can be optimized in the future.

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Furthermore, computed tomography offers the possibility to observe batteries under operating conditions in real time. This gives testers a unique insight into the dynamics of battery reactions, which can lead to improved battery development and design.

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The use of computed tomography in battery research thus opens up new horizons and enables researchers to understand and improve batteries in a way that was not previously possible. This is a decisive advantage in overcoming the challenges in the field of energy supply and mobility.

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Identification of faults and defects

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Computed tomography shows its strengths particularly in the identification of faults and defects. Detailed imaging of the inside of battery cells allows material defects or structural anomalies to be detected at an early stage. Computed tomography makes it possible to locate and analyze these defects without destroying the battery. This means that defects in an old battery can be easily identified and rectified. 

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Computed tomography at Q-Tech

Q-Tech stands for precision, trust and advanced technology in industrial metrology. As a family-run company with a great vision, we strive to accompany our customers on the path to realizing the products of tomorrow.

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With our comprehensive range of services, from Q-Tech Measurements and Q-Tech Consulting to the Q-Tech Expert Academy, we successfully master all challenges in quality assurance.

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Our use of computed tomography (CT) is an example of our willingness to use innovative technologies to solve complex problems. With CT, we are able to carry out three-dimensional analyses of components, which is particularly useful in the analysis of industrial batteries. But this is just one part of our broad technological portfolio, which is available to us in measurement technology for your demanding tasks. 

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Our constant focus on innovation and our highly qualified measurement experts, who work both on-site and remotely, ensure precise and reproducible measurements at all times. With Q-Tech, you not only get a tailor-made range of services, but also a partner who stands for quality and supports your company's performance.

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Get to know Q-Tech and find out how we can meet your specific requirements. Our team looks forward to receiving your project inquiry and is ready to welcome you to the world of precision measurement technology.

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Are you curious? Then take a look at our equipment and our service. This will allow you to familiarize yourself in advance with the computer tomographs from our company. We are always available for a consultation. 

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Conclusion

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Computed tomography for batteries offers an innovative solution for investigating and improving battery technologies. With the unique ability to visualize the internal structures of batteries, researchers can optimize battery efficiency and safety.

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Looking to the future, computed tomography has the potential to enable breakthrough discoveries in the battery sector. With advanced scanning techniques and increasing technological development, this method could pave a new way for the development of sustainable and powerful batteries .