Advanced on-board state estimation of large format lithium iron phosphate battery packs for off-highway applications (Ref: AAE-AF-2610)

About the Project

We are seeking an outstanding and motivated PhD candidate to join an exciting, industry engaged research project focused on advanced state estimation and diagnostics for lithium-ion battery packs in off-highway applications. This project is supported by the Faraday Institution with support from an industry partner (subject to contract). The candidate will be based in the Department of Aeronautical and Automotive Engineering at Loughborough University.

Project Overview

Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) batteries are now the dominant chemistry in off highway and stationary energy storage applications due to their safety, durability and cost advantages. However, their flat voltage profile, voltage hysteresis and strong temperature dependence make accurate state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH) estimation particularly challenging. Existing methods are often inaccurate, non adaptive, or impractical for real time onboard implementation.

This PhD will develop novel on board state estimation methods for large format prismatic LFP cells, combining electrochemical modelling, experimental testing, system identification and control theory. The project will also deliver improved SOH and degradation mode estimation, including knee point prediction.

What You Will Do

• Generate a comprehensive experimental ageing dataset on large format LFP cells under realistic duty cycles.
• Develop and validate adaptive SOC and SOH estimation algorithms.
• Build and parameterise electrochemical models using PyBaMM.
• Translate laboratory research into real world systems through a close onsite collaboration with the industry partner
• Participate in a leading training and enrichment scheme with the Faraday Institution.