Summary
The EU research project «HyMetBat» is developing innovative measurement methods for characterizing sustainable batteries and thus accelerating the energy transition. Empa combines radiation methods with electroanalytical procedures to analyze batteries during operation – a «stress ECG» for energy storage. The consortium with over 30 partner institutions is working until 2028 to optimize battery technologies for climate-neutral mobility and renewable energy sources.
People
- Artur Braun – Physicist and group leader high-performance ceramics, Empa
Topics
- Battery research and energy storage
- Sustainable materials and circular economy
- Metrological characterization
- European Green Deal and energy transition
- International research cooperation
Detailed Summary
The project «HyMetBat» («Hybrid metrology for sustainable and low-carbon footprint battery materials») builds on the successful predecessor project «OpMetBat» and aims to establish reliable characterization methods for sustainable and recyclable batteries. This is essential for accelerating battery development in the context of the energy transition.
Empa focuses on understanding the complete causal chain from material selection through synthesis, processing, electrode manufacturing, and cell assembly to operation and failure of batteries. The core method combines modern radiation techniques – particularly neutron and X-ray radiation – with electroanalytical techniques and is performed «in operando», i.e., while the battery actively charges and discharges.
Under the leadership of Artur Braun, researchers analyze how electrochemical and mechanical properties of active materials change during the charging cycle and what impact these have on battery function. These detailed insights are intended to promote industrial scaling of new battery technologies and thus accelerate the transition to renewable energy.
The consortium comprises over 30 partner institutions, including universities, research institutes, and industrial partners. Empa contributed to international opening and integrated two additional partners from associated and non-EU countries. The project is coordinated by the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) in Berlin and runs until 2028.
Key Statements
- Innovative measurement technology: Combination of radiation methods and electroanalytical procedures enables «stress ECG» for batteries during operation
- Systemic understanding: Detailed analysis of the causal chain from material selection to battery failure
- Scalability: Results support industrial implementation of new battery technologies
- Broad cooperation: 30+ partner institutions form a robust network for sustainable battery development
- European relevance: Direct contribution to the European Green Deal and Switzerland's climate neutrality goal 2050
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
| Group | Role |
|---|---|
| Empa & Research Partners | Development and validation of measurement methods |
| Battery Manufacturers | Benefit from accelerated technology development |
| Energy Sector | Access to improved energy storage solutions |
| General Public | Enabling climate-neutral mobility and energy supply |
| Policy Decision-Makers | Data basis for regulation and support |
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Accelerated market maturity of new battery technologies | High complexity may delay implementation |
| Improved quality control in production | Dependence on specialized infrastructure (radiation sources) |
| Optimized resource efficiency through better understanding | Limited resources for follow-up projects |
| Strengthened international research cooperation | Intellectual property and commercialization competition |
| Contribution to European climate goals | Transferability to other battery types unclear |
Action Relevance
For Decision-Makers:
- Monitor: Check interim results of the project until 2028 for scaling potential
- Invest: Ensure continuous funding of battery research to maintain technological leadership
- Coordinate: Advance standardization of measurement methods with international partners
- Implement: Integrate findings into production guidelines and quality standards
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements and project details verified
- [x] Project duration, partners, and coordination confirmed
- [x] Methodological description validated
- [ ] Quantitative results (not yet available – project runs until 2028)
Supplementary Research
- European Green Deal – European Commission: Strategic framework specifications for battery research
- Battery Roadmap Switzerland 2050 – Federal Office of Energy: National objectives and funding programs
- OpMetBat Project Report – Predecessor project with established measurement methods
Bibliography
Primary Source:
Empa press release – «New Measurement Methods for Batteries in the EU Green Deal Project «HyMetBat»» (22 January 2026)
https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/ebQSZx3v6DnKql7oAjE-4
Supplementary Sources:
- Empa – High-Performance Ceramics Department: Research focus on battery technology
- Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) Berlin – HyMetBat project coordination
- Federal Office of Metrology (METAS) – Standardization of measurement methods
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on 22 January 2026
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Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: 22 January 2026