A research visit to the Polytechnic of Turin in Italy

During the second year of my PhD, I had the opportunity to undertake a research visit to the Polytechnic of Turin, Italy, supported by the AAPS travel scheme. The primary goals of this visit were to deepen my understanding of Lithium-ion battery SoH estimation—central to my PhD research—and, more importantly, to gain practical insights into battery management systems (BMS) and the application of an online SoH estimation algorithm. Accurate SoH estimation has the potential to enhance the utilization of Lithium-ion batteries in electric vehicles (EVs), leading to improved performance, reduced buffer capacity, lower vehicle costs, and a smaller carbon footprint at the battery’s end of life.

Upon my arrival in Turin, I quickly settled into my accommodation and marked the beginning of my Italian experience with a pizza and gelato. The following morning, I received a warm welcome from the research division at the Polytechnic, with whom I would be working with. After a strong espresso to start the day, I quickly settled into my new environment, and we began discussing topics surrounding BMS and battery SoH.

Our objective was to develop a BMS algorithm that incorporates advanced Kalman filters, while exploring various strategies for integrating novel online SoH estimation algorithms. The work was based on synthetic data derived from electrochemical degradation models. Kalman filters are essential in EVs for providing real-time estimations of key battery states, such as state of charge (SoC) and SoH, by effectively managing noisy sensor data and addressing uncertainties in battery modelling. This ensures accurate monitoring, which enhances safety, control, battery lifespan, and overall EV performance.

My primary collaborators were researchers with expertise in control systems, but I also had the pleasure of interacting with other PhD students. The office environment consisted of a multidisciplinary group of researchers working on topics ranging from Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) to smart city interconnectivity. One of the most memorable experiences outside of academia was a trip to the Alps for a ‘via ferrata’ with a few fellow researchers. This adventure not only provided a stunning view of the Italian Alps but also strengthened relationships within the research group. I hope to stay in contact with some of the people I met and collaborate on future projects between the University of Bath and Polytechnic of Turin.

Overall, my research visit to the Polytechnic of Turin in Italy was an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I have a much clearer understanding of online BMS systems and how the potential impact of my PhD research on the design and operation of batteries in electric vehicles (EVs). Beyond the academic and research opportunities, the visit also allowed me to immerse myself in Italy's rich culture and delicious food. However, the most enduring memories are of the welcoming and collaborative atmosphere provided by the research team. I highly recommend the international travel scheme for researchers seeking to broaden their horizons and engage with other experts in their field. The blend of academic rigor and cultural immersion makes it an invaluable opportunity for professional and personal development, and I consider this a once-in-a-lifetime experience.