Gabriela Bergiel, a talented student at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, is taking battery research to new heights—literally. As an alumna of the BattXcel program offered by Greenectra, Gabriela has acquired comprehensive knowledge in the Operation, Testing, and Safety of Li-ion batteries. Now, she’s applying this expertise to conduct groundbreaking experiments that push the boundaries of battery performance in extreme conditions.
AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow has proudly featured Gabriela Bergiel’s groundbreaking stratospheric battery research in their own article, showcasing her innovative application of BattXcel knowledge. The AGH article can be found here.
Stratospheric Battery Testing
Gabriela’s innovative project involves sending Li-ion batteries into the stratosphere using high-altitude balloons. These balloons typically ascend to altitudes of 27-28 km before bursting, allowing the test pack to descend back to Earth via parachute. This unique testing environment exposes the batteries to extreme conditions, including:
– Rapidly changing atmospheric pressures
– Drastic temperature fluctuations
– Low-pressure environments
The Experiment Setup
Gabriela’s experimental rig is a marvel of engineering, combining her battery expertise with high-altitude balloon technology:
1. GPS and APRS Tracking:
Radio Tracking – The entire flight is monitored using GPS (GPS works to 10km only due to earth geometry) and APRS technology, ensuring accurate data collection during whole flight and retrieval of the test pack.
2. Discharge Profile:
Throughout the flight, the batteries undergo a specified current discharge profile, simulating real-world usage under extreme conditions.
3. Data Logging:
An STM32-based data logger records crucial information such as altitude, temperature, and battery performance metrics.
4. Testing Regime:
Electrical tests are conducted before, during, and after the flight, providing a comprehensive picture of how the batteries perform under stratospheric conditions.
Leveraging BattXcel Knowledge
Gabriela’s deep understanding of Li-ion battery technology, gained through the BattXcel program, is crucial in every aspect of this experiment:
– Planning: Her knowledge of battery safety and operation guides the design of the test rig and the selection of appropriate battery types for the extreme conditions.
– Execution: Understanding battery testing procedures allows Gabriela to implement robust data collection methods and ensure the reliability of her results.
– Analysis: Her comprehensive background in battery technology enables her to interpret the collected data accurately, identifying how stratospheric conditions affect battery performance.
Implications and Future Prospects
Gabriela’s innovative approach to battery testing has significant implications for various industries:
– Aerospace: Improving battery performance for high-altitude aircraft and satellites.
– Weather Balloons: Enhancing power sources for atmospheric research equipment.
– Extreme Environment Applications: Developing batteries for use in challenging conditions on Earth and potentially in space exploration.
By combining the theoretical knowledge from BattXcel with practical, high-altitude experimentation, Gabriela Bergiel is not just reaching for the stars—she’s powering the journey there. Her work exemplifies how a solid foundation in battery technology can lead to exciting and impactful research, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in energy storage and utilization.
Special thanks go to Dr. Agata Maria Kołodziejczyk for generously granting permission to use the photographs.
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