Advancing energy storage technology: the ARMS project at Tampere University's Laboratory for Future Electronics
We, the members of Tampere University (TAU), specifically the Laboratory for Future Electronics (LFE), serve as the coordinating entity for the ARMS project. We not only take charge of the management and coordination work package (WP8) but also lead WP3, which focuses on electrode enhancement through the utilization of the Atomic Layer Deposition (ALD) technique. In addition to Matti, the coordinator, our TAU team for ARMS includes Hamed, serving as the technical project manager and post-doctoral researcher; Hanna, the administrative project manager; and Jari, a staff scientist. Joining our TAU team for ARMS in January this year is Remuel, whose doctoral research revolves around enhancing supercapacitor (SC) performance through tailored graphene-based electrodes adorned with metal oxides using ALD.
Remuel's doctoral thesis focuses on improving SC performance by applying ultra-thin layers through ALD onto graphene-rich electrodes. This method facilitates the modification of graphene-rich activated carbon electrodes by applying nanoscale ultrathin coatings of metal oxides, thereby altering the electrodes' properties to enable higher energy storage capacity. Our objective at LFE is to elevate the energy density to exceed 50 Wh/kg, striving to approach the energy storage capability of conventional lithium-ion batteries relative to weight. This effort stands as a crucial element of the ARMS project, driving us toward groundbreaking advancements in energy storage technology.
ARMS consortium partners convene online for the General Meeting
In an online setting, the partners of the ARMS consortium convened for a general meeting on April 19th. This meeting brought together all 11 consortium partners, with leaders of the work packages (WP) providing updates on the project's progress.
During the meeting, significant advancements were reported. WP1 focused on synthesizing raw graphene-containing carbon-based electrode materials, while WP2 and WP4 began developing electrodes for micro-flexible supercapacitors and electrolytes, respectively. Additionally, the development of electrode boosters in WP3 had recently started. As per the project implementation plan, some WPs will initiate their work on developing our eco-friendly supercapacitor later in the project lifecycle. Representatives from these WPs shared insights on the achieved results and planned future activities, with participants actively engaging in discussions after each presentation.
Looking forward, the next ARMS general meeting is scheduled as an in-person event on November 5-6 in Riga, Latvia. This gathering will be hosted by the Institute of Solid State Physics at the University of Latvia and the Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry.
Highlights from the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar and Exhibition
In sunny Orlando, Florida, the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar &
Exhibition served as a platform to showcase the latest updates and advancements
in energy storage technology. From March 12th to March 15th,
experts from around the world gathered to exchange insights and innovations
shaping the future of batteries across various applications. The event provided
a comprehensive overview of the industry's landscape with four distinct
scientific programs—R&D, Manufacturing, Applications, and Engineering—featuring
over 280 speakers."
Among the notable presentations was one delivered by Ph.D. Andrew Cook from Beneq, a key partner in the ARMS consortium. Dr. Cook's talk, titled 'Roll-to-Roll ALD Coatings for Battery Cell Interfaces,' was part of the Manufacturing program's section on 'Advances in Cell Manufacturing.' Through his presentation, Dr. Cook elucidated the crucial role of advanced coatings in enhancing battery performance, offering valuable insights into the ongoing efforts to improve energy storage solutions.
Dr. Cook joined Beneq in 2021 as a Process Development Engineer and has been investigating how ALD coatings and processes can be used to modify interface surfaces, which has been shown to improve battery performance. His expertise lies in scaling up ALD to roll-to-roll (R2R) and battery technologies for manufacturing readiness.
Beneq stands as a key partner within the ARMS consortium, playing an important role in transferring ALD technology from the laboratory-scale to large-volume manufacturing. Leveraging its expertise in sheet-to-sheet, roll-to-roll, and spatial ALD processing, Beneq leads the charge in integrating these state-of-the-art coating technologies into its large-volume manufacturing tools. Through this collaboration, ARMS takes a significant step towards scaling up ALD coatings and fostering the development of eco-friendly supercapacitors.
The International Battery Seminar & Exhibit, established in 1983, has been a key platform for announcing significant developments in battery technology. For example, Sony unveiled its lithium-ion technology at the event in 1991, marking a milestone in battery innovation.
As the 41st Annual International Battery Seminar and Exhibition concluded, participants left with an enriched comprehension of the current trends and technological advancements propelling the battery industry. Dr. Cook's presentation highlighted the collaborative endeavors focused on improving energy storage solutions to facilitate a more electrified future.
More information about the event
Workshop announcement: exploring energy-autonomous wearable electronics at IEEE FLEPS Conference
Project ARMS will co-host a workshop alongside three other EU-funded projects during the IEEE FLEPS 2024 (IEEE International Conference on Flexible and Printable Sensors and Systems) conference in Tampere, Finland, from June 30th to July 3rd. Collaborating with “GRAPHERGIA”, "SOLiD" and "SUPERIOT", the workshop will delve into the forefront of energy-autonomous self-powered wearable electronic devices, focusing on the dynamic interaction between energy harvesting systems and transformative energy storage solutions, specifically batteries and supercapacitors.
Inspired by four EU-funded endeavors – ‘GRAPHERGIA’, 'SUPERIOT', 'SOLiD', and 'ARMS' - the workshop offers a comprehensive examination of sustainable technologies. ‘GRAPHERGIA’ innovates graphene-based materials use in energy storage tech, like smart textiles and Li-ion batteries, via laser-made graphene. 'SUPERIOT' introduces a versatile Internet of Things (IoT) system with dual-mode optical and radio communications, utilizing printed electronics. 'SOLiD' contributes to the discourse by exploring enhanced energy density batteries through the R2R process and advanced cathode materials, solid polymer electrolytes, and conducting additives. Meanwhile, 'ARMS' focuses on enhancing supercapacitor energy density through innovative materials and fabrication techniques such as ALD, adding depth to the discussion.
The workshop will stress the integration of energy storage systems with energy harvesting solutions, particularly highlighting the relevance of the Graphene flagship to the ‘GRAPHERGIA’ and 'ARMS' projects, which employ 2D materials in supercapacitor and battery development. By convening experts and enthusiasts in the field, the workshop aims to cultivate collaborative discussion and envision the future of wearable electronics, emphasizing the critical role of sustainable energy solutions.
During our collaborative workshop, we will feature six speakers representing four EU-funded projects. Below is the lineup of our speakers:
- EU Project ‘SUPERIOT’, Marcos Katz, Project Coordinator, Professor at University of Oulu, Finland.
- EU Project ‘SUPERIOT’, Marja Välimäki, Senior Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
- EU Project ‘SOLiD’, Sam Mousavi, Research Scientist at VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland.
- EU Project ‘GRAPHERGIA’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Spyros Yannopoulos, Project Coordinator and Professor at the University of Patras, Greece.
- EU Project ‘GRAPHERGIA’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Athanasios Masouras, Materials and Process Engineer Expert, PLEIONE ENERGY GmbH or Antonios Vavouliotis, President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), PLEIONE ENERGY GmbH.
- EU Project ‘ARMS’ (Associated with Graphene Flagship), Jari Keskinen, Staff Scientist at Tampere University, Finland.
For registration, please follow the link.
Project ARMS researchers engage in collaborative exchange at the Graphene Flagship Common Kick-Off Meeting and Science and Technology Forum
Five researchers from the ARMS project joined the Graphene Flagship Common
Kick-off Meeting and Science and Technology Forum, organised on 5-6 February
2024 by the Graphene Flagship Coordination and Support Action project and
hosted by Chalmers University of Technology, in Gothenburg, Sweden.
The Kick-Off gathering held on February 5th convened collaborators from 13 EU-funded initiatives linked to the Graphene Flagship. During the meeting, the ARMS project had the opportunity for face-to-face interactions with the other 12 RIAs/IAs participating in this collaboration, including GATEPOST, Next-2Digits, 2NEURALVISION, GRAPHERGIA, MUNASET, 2D-BioPAD, GIANCE, 2D-PRINTABLE, 2D ENGINE, 2D-SPINTECH, 2D-EPL, and SAFARI. Each project delivered insights into their objectives and upcoming initiatives. Additionally, the event featured concurrent sessions, including the Project Managers Working Group, the Innovation Working Groups, and Coordination Board Meetings. The objective of the meeting was to strengthen connections and collaboration among the RIAs/IAs as they collectively strive to transition graphene technologies from labs to markets.
The event marked the official start of the cooperation between the 13 RIAs/IAs, addressing the goals that these projects have in common. It also focused on innovation road-mapping, standardisation, and outreach opportunities to expedite the practical applications of graphene.
The Science and Technology Forum held on February 6th delved into the trajectory of graphene advancement and EU funding, emphasising the European Union’s strategic initiative, Innovative Advanced Materials for the EU (IAM4EU). It was underscored during the Forum that the upcoming years will play a critical role in shaping the future of 2D advanced materials.
The gathering fostered invaluable face-to-face interactions, enabling deeper understanding and collaboration among the participating projects. Overall, it was a rewarding experience facilitating future collaborations.
For more information on the Graphene Flagship Common Kick-Off meeting, click here.
For updates about the ARMS project, please follow Project ARMS on LinkedIn and X and subscribe to our newsletter.
ARMS WP1 leader honoured for his role in advancing the energy industry in Latvia
In a
remarkable celebration at the end of December 2023, Latvian scientists gathered
to receive the prestigious Annual Energy Awards, a joint initiative by JSC
Latvenergo and the Latvian Academy of Sciences. This event marked the
twenty-fifth consecutive year of honouring outstanding contributions and
accomplishments in the dynamic field of energy.
Dr. Gints Kučinskis, who leads ARMS WP1 and serves as the esteemed head of the Laboratory of Materials for Energy Harvesting and Storage at the Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia (ISSP UL), has been honoured with the Annual Energy Award for Young Scientists. This recognition acknowledges his work "Research of cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries".
The awards ceremony recognised exceptional achievements and underscored Latvia's unwavering commitment to innovation and progress in the energy sector. The laureates, including Dr. Kučinskis, were applauded for their scientific endeavours, which pave the way for a sustainable and climate-neutral future for Latvia and beyond.
As the new year unfolded, Dr. Kučinskis continued to be a prominent figure in Latvia's scientific community. On January 8, he participated in the opening of the #ZinātneLatvijai2024 (Research Latvia 2024) calendar and exhibition in Riga, proudly standing as one of the faces of this year's calendar.
Initiated by the Ministry of Education and Science of Latvia, the calendar pays homage to scientists who exhibit passion and exceptional prowess in their respective fields. Minister of Education and Science Anda Čakša warmly welcomed participants at the event, emphasising the significance of their contributions.
The calendar unfolds the captivating stories of twelve personalities, each dedicated to addressing global challenges and everyday issues through their research. The featured areas of expertise range from heterogeneous single-chip systems and programming to innovative polymers, materials for lithium and sodium-ion batteries, satellite data, geographic information systems, molecular genetics, functional genomics, fluorine, supramolecular chemistry, sustainable land resource and landscape management, creative business, utilisation of sustainable materials in packaging, and wastewater monitoring and treatment.
Gints Kučinskis continues to inspire through his research, which significantly contributes to the ARMS project's goal of fostering a sustainable and resilient future.
Video in Latvian of Gints Kučinskis receiving the Annual Energy Award for Young Scientists
Promotional video of the #ResearchLatvia2024 calendar featuring Gints Kučinskis
ARMS technical project manager attends PRINSE'24: a global junction of printed intelligence innovation
In January 2024, Dr. Hamed Pourkheirollah, ARMS technical project manager from Tampere University, attended the 8th PrintoCent Industry Seminar, PRINSE'24, which gathered over 300 global participants in Oulu, Finland. The event, which takes place every second year, allows its participants to hear the status of the industry and technology, meet friends, and do business.
Primarily, the event provided an exceptional platform for networking, allowing the project ARMS representative to connect with industrial companies and participants from around the world. Engaging with industry leaders, startups, and visionaries at PRINSE allowed him to share insights about the EU-funded ARMS project.
ARMS technical project manager, sharing his insight, explains: “The diverse and inspiring atmosphere of PRINSE, characterised by its small yet impactful setting, facilitated meaningful conversations and interactions. This environment enabled me to identify key individuals and organisations relevant to our project, fostering relationships with great potential for future collaborations and partnerships.”
The organised training and round-table sessions, as well as visits to pilot factories, laboratories, and regional printed electronics companies, enriched Dr. Pourkheirollah's understanding of the latest innovations in the field. This knowledge transfer is particularly beneficial for ARMS, as it positions it at the forefront of technological advancements, ensuring that the project remains aligned with the current industry trends and developments.
In summary, the connections made, the exposure gained, and the insights gathered from the PRINSE'24 seminar have significantly contributed to the positive trajectory of the ARMS project. The potential collaborations and shared innovative thoughts acquired during the event have laid a solid foundation for the project's success, ensuring that ARMS remains at the forefront of cutting-edge technology within the industrial landscape.
Tampere University leads EU consortium to address eco-friendly energy storage
Supercapacitors, known for their high-power
density and rapid charging capabilities, have long been recognised for their
potential in revolutionising energy storage. However, despite their
eco-friendly nature, commercially available supercapacitors still face
limitations in energy density compared to traditional batteries. The ARMS
project aims to break through these barriers, paving the way for a new era in
energy storage, says current consortium leader Prof. Donald Lupo.
The heart of the ARMS initiative lies in developing groundbreaking technologies that will enhance the energy density of supercapacitors to over 50 Wh/kg, comparable to conventional lithium-ion batteries. Unlike previous attempts that often sacrificed power density and cycle life, ARMS strives to maintain these crucial attributes while ensuring eco-friendliness.
Consortium leader (from January 2024) Prof. Matti Mäntysalo says: One key innovation within ARMS is the use of scalable atomic layer deposition (ALD) processes to modify graphene-rich activated carbon electrodes by applying ultrathin conformal coatings of metal oxides at the nanoscale, promising a major increase in energy density. These electrodes are designed to offer high power density and long cycle life, addressing the limitations of conventional supercapacitors. Additionally, ARMS will introduce novel techniques to expand the operational voltage window of supercapacitors, surpassing the conventional limits and further enhancing their performance.
Importantly, sustainability is at the forefront of ARMS. The project will implement a sustainable-by-design framework to guide the fabrication processes, ensuring superior electrochemical performance and environmental responsibility. A life-cycle sustainability assessment (LSA) will further validate the supercapacitors' eco-friendliness and manufacturing processes.
ARMS is not just a technological breakthrough but a catalyst for European industrial leadership in key strategic value chains. By fostering collaborations and breakthroughs in energy storage, ARMS aims to contribute to the industrial leadership goals outlined in the destination: Industrial leadership and increased autonomy, focusing on the security of supply in raw materials.
As the ARMS project unfolds, it promises to redefine the capabilities of supercapacitors, unlocking a new era of powerful, sustainable, and economically viable energy storage.
Exploring the future of electronics: project ARMS partners visit the Tampere University’s Laboratory for Future Electronics
In the heart of cutting-edge technological research lies Tampere University’s (TAU) Laboratory for Future Electronics (LFE), a hub of innovation dedicated to unravelling the mysteries and possibilities of future electronic technologies. During the project ARMS kick-off meeting, project partners had an opportunity to visit LFE and delve into LFE research in energy autonomy, sensors, wearable electronics, and hybrid system integration.
Visitors learned about the LFE's spectrum of research themes that cover a broad array of electronic applications:- Flexible/Bendable/Stretchable Electronics: LFE delves into the development of electronics that can seamlessly conform to various shapes, paving the way for flexible and adaptable devices.
- Integration of Printed and Conventional Electronics: With a focus on hybrid systems, LFE explores the synergy between printed components and traditional electronic assembly methods, emphasising scalability and cost-effectiveness.
- Energy Storage and Harvesting: LFE's researchers are at the forefront of investigating technologies related to energy autonomy, exploring innovative solutions for storage and harvesting that could redefine how electronic devices power themselves.
- Printed Thin-Film Circuits and Systems: The laboratory is dedicated to advancing the field of printed electronics, emphasising scalable, low-cost manufacturing methods.
During the visit, project ARMS participants could see the state-of-the-art infrastructure. The laboratory is equipped with cutting-edge tools and machinery that facilitate research. The printing facility houses an impressive array of printers, including inkjet printers, gravure, flexo, rotary screen, and 3D electronics printers. These tools enable the development of electronic components with precision and efficiency. The glove box system, filled with nitrogen, provides an ideal device fabrication and characterisation environment. Integrated tools such as Dimatix inkjet printers, ALD, spin coaters, and vacuum hot plates ensure meticulous control over the production process. There is also electrical characterisation equipment in the LFE: probe stations, semiconductor analysers, potentiostats, and devices for measuring supercapacitors and batteries. These tools play a crucial role in evaluating the performance and efficiency of electronic components. Visitors were also acquainted with material testing equipment for assessing the mechanical properties of functional materials, including testing equipment for ferroelectric and piezoelectric materials.
The laboratory visitors grew assured of TAU LFE's capacity to significantly contribute to advancing environmentally friendly supercapacitors, a key aspect of the ongoing project ARMS.
More information about the laboratory
Project ARMS Launches with Successful Kick-Off Meeting at Tampere University
On November 13-14, the journey of the project ARMS (Atomic layer-coated gRaphene electrode-based Micro-flexible and Structural supercapacitors) began with a kick-off meeting organised and held by the project’s coordinator - Tampere University. The event brought together eleven esteemed partner organisations from six countries, setting the stage for a collaborative initiative that spans the realms of academia and industry.
Representatives from Tampere University, KTH Royal Institute of Technology, CIDETEC, InnoCell ApS, Institute of Solid State Physics, University of Latvia, Latvian State Institute of Wood Chemistry, University of Southern Denmark, AIMEN Technology Centre, Beneq Oy, Chalmers University of Technology, and Lynxdrone converged to exchange ideas, share expertise, and lay the groundwork for eco-friendly supercapacitors.
Over two dynamic days, partners immersed themselves in the details of the project's diverse work packages, offering a comprehensive view of their organisational contributions. The kick-off meeting provided a unique platform for introductions, fostering a deeper understanding of the diverse skills and perspectives each partner brings to the table.
The discussions went beyond theoretical frameworks, delving into the practical aspects of collaboration. Partners engaged in fruitful dialogues, exploring the intricacies of cooperation and establishing a solid foundation for the shared journey ahead. The event's agenda facilitated not only the alignment of objectives but also the cultivation of a collaborative spirit essential for the success of the project ARMS.