SBIR-STTR Award

Yardney Technical Products, (YTP) proposes to develop, test and deliver high-performance Li-ion batteries capable of operation at expanded temperature range to meet the demanding requirements of naval aircraft. YTP, in collaboration with the University of Rhode Island, has been working on the development of innovative technologies that should result in durable, lightweight, Li-Ion batteries with significantly increased life performance at elevated temperatures. YTP proposes to take the innovations and concepts in this proposal (cathode type, stabilized electrolyte, binder solubility, stabilized surface coated cathodes, etc) and demonstrate that the combined enhancements will significantly improve the upper operating temperature. These improvements will also result in an ability to operate at higher voltages which, when combined with lightweight aluminum hardware, would result in significant increases in energy density and specific energy. While YTP has initially looked at some of the above areas, they have not yet been evaluated in conjunction with each other, optimized or even tested relative to the needs of naval aviation systems. YTP proposes to conduct this research as part of a Phase 1 and Phase 1 Option with the Phase 2 effort ultimately resulting in the delivery of vastly improved batteries with both traditional and iron phosphate technology.

Keywords:
Battery, Li-Ion, Energy Density, Aircraft, High Temperature, Thermal

Lithium-ion batteries (LIB) have been widely used and intensely investigated for the last decade. However, commercial cells have several problems in trying to meet the performance requirements typical of military applications. Most notable is impedance growth and capacity loss upon storage or prolonged at temperatures above 60oC.1,2 In order to develop more durable, high-energy power sources for Navy aircraft applications elevated temperature performance must be improved. Yardney Technical Products, Inc. and researchers at the University of Rhode Island have been working on the development of innovative technologies and systems with the goal of increasing the life and viable operational environment of Li-Ion batteries. Previous work, and work completed in Phase 1 of this effort can be directly applied to batteries for naval applications. It is noted that the Phase 2 effort includes an evaluation of “less reactive” cell chemistries (e.g. Iron Phosphate) that reduce the vigor of a cell event and thus reduce the risk of cell fratricide.

Keywords:
28v, 28v, Lithium-Ion, Life, Safety, High Temperature