There is a need for high energy density storage capacitors which could meet performance requirements of greater than one joule per gram energy densities at high voltages. Presently available capacitors have at best roughly 1/3 the required energy density. Aluminum electrolytic technology may provide a source for such capacitors. The feasibility is being established of developing reliable high energy density aluminum electrolytic capacitors for pulsed power applications. An understanding of the fundamental and practical power density limitations of this technology is being developed in order to arrive at product concepts and power density objectives based on such understanding. In addition, concepts for improved quality assurance are being developed so that products of both high energy density and assured pulse discharge life can be delivered for defense applications. Areas being addressed for improvement include application of novel electrolytes, optimization of capacitor windings improved dielectrics, and improved electrode surfaces. Various defense applications could benefit from a high energy density electrolytic capacitor, including space-based directed energy and kinetic energy systems requiring non-nuclear, lightweight and durable high energy power sources and power conditioning.
