Robust, High Capacity, High Power Lithium Ion Batteries for Space Systems

Lithium ion battery technology provides the highest energy density of all rechargeable battery technologies available today. However, the majority of the research into this technology is focused on developing lower cost materials for the consumer electronics market, and not on high reliability or long life. As a result, the materials developed do not meet the needs of the aerospace industry in terms of mass and volume specific storage capacities, and suppliers will often alter the formulation or process with little warning. It is therefore proposed to use domestically manufactured, advanced anode, cathode, and electrolyte materials to design advanced batteries for aerospace systems. The proposed anode material, developed at Applied Sciences, is a nanometer-scale composite of silicon and carbon nanofiber capable of providing 1000 mAh/g with coulombic efficiencies above 99.6% to moderate cycle numbers. The electrolyte will be a multi-blend of asymmetric linear carbonates capable of operating from -40oC to +70oC. These materials will be coupled with high capacity cathode materials to enable the production of cells with specific energy (> 300 Wh/kg) and an energy density (> 600 Wh/l) that can operate across a wide temperature range. Cells fabricated under this program will be characterized for electrochemical performance and safety.

The proposed technology will be applicable to commercial and military systems. Commercial uses include hybrid and all-electric vehicles, power tools, and consumer electronics which need higher capacity and power batteries. Military uses include systems such as silent watch, sensors, hybrid vehicles, portable soldier systems, and unmanned vehicles which need advanced battery technology to extend mission duration and capability.

The proposed technology will be applicable to commercial and military systems. Commercial uses include hybrid and all-electric vehicles, power tools, and consumer electronics which need higher capacity and power batteries. Military uses include systems such as silent watch, sensors, hybrid vehicles, portable soldier systems, and unmanned vehicles which need advanced battery technology to extend mission duration and capability.

This is early/mid-stage (TRL 3) — the most realistic path in is NASA SBIR/STTR, which funds small businesses and research institutions to develop technology aligned with NASA's needs (equity-free, phased funding). Check whether a current SBIR/STTR solicitation topic overlaps with this project's technology area, or contact the project directly (above) to ask.

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