Advanced Low-Temperature Capable Polymer Composite Electrolyte, Semi Solid-State Battery

Solid Energies Inc. (SEI) (www.solidenergies.com) in team with the University of South Dakota proposes to provide reliable, high-performing secondary battery technologies for sustained operation and survivability in low-temperature lunar conditions. The harsh, low-temperature environment of the lunar surface presents unique challenges for providing reliable surface power. Advanced cells with lower temperature capability reduce the need for ancillary thermal management, which would reduce system mass /volume, enable longer mission durations, and enhance our capabilities throughout a sustained human presence. The goal is to create highly versatile, stretchable, and shape changing batteries that benefit both NASA’s Moon to Mars initiative and planetary science missions to the outer solar system. These batteries possess unique qualities, such as the ability to withstand extreme temperatures and fit securely into tight or irregular spaces without compromising safety. It is built upon a high-voltage capable, multifunctional, polymer composite solid-state electrolyte (SSE), which offers high ionic conductivity to facilitates charge transfer and excellent electrochemical/ chemical stability over an extreme range of temperatures (-80℃ to 90℃). This class of SSE enable the use of (1) Li-ion anodes through a resilient interface control, and (2) 5V class high-voltage cathode materials, for instance, Co-free, low-cost LiNi0.5Mn1.5O2 (LNMO) with high operating potential (~4.7 V vs. Li/Li+) that is normally outside the window of liquid electrolytes used in current Li-ion batteries (LiBs). In addition, the proposed ASSB cells will employ the patented designs of electrolyte-infiltrated composite cathode and co-curable multilayer cell structure that (1) enables the formation of a 3-dimension networking electrolyte to minimize the interface resistance and (2) allows the ASSB to be manufactured with a low-cost, roll-to-roll process compatible with the current production of LiBs.

The goal is to create highly versatile, stretchable, and shape changing advanced low-temperature capable polymer composite electrolyte, semi solid-state batteries that benefit both NASA’s Moon to Mars initiative and planetary science missions to the outer solar system. Low temperature batteries that perform down to -80℃ are needed to enable science and exploration missions aligned with lunar service, including supporting science missions such as Commercial Lunar Payload Services and Lunar Quest. These batteries may also serve for potential NASA decadal missions to ocean worlds (Europa, Enceladus, and Titan) and the icy giants (Neptune and Uranus). Low-temperature capable batteries developed under this subtopic would enhance these missions and could be enabling, particularly for missions that are highly mass, or volume limited. Advanced low-temperature capable polymer composite electrolyte, semi solid-state batteries based on high-voltage capable, multifunctional, polymer composite solid-state electrolyte (SSE) have other non-NASA applications including in the military for military wearable batteries, electric vehicles, medical devices, and also consumer electronics. Other potential applications of this novel class of solid-state battery include use in vehicles/aircraft of both electric and hybrid drives and energy storage for renewable energy. The reliable, high energy, high rate, and long cycle life of SSLB with enhanced safety will find wide applications in various electrical vehicles (EVs/HEVs/PHEVs) and for photovoltaic/wind power applications, thereby providing several anticipated benefits including reduced energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. These battery systems will also find applications for stand-by energy storage used in energy conversion/generation systems for sensors and communications equipment. Benefits include high energy density, high efficiency, high safety/reliability, and enhanced operation time.

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