Compact and/or MEMS-based gas-sampling sensors for analysis of battery offgassing

Availability of robust and reliable sensors for battery health monitoring is essential to the safe implementation and use of rechargeable batteries in military applications. Lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, silver-zinc, and lithium ion batteries, for example, are critical to a number of existing and emerging power systems in naval vehicles. When over-charged, degraded or damaged, each of these batteries emits hazardous gases that can cause explosions if left unchecked. In its Phase I SBIR project, NexTech Materials, Ltd. leveraged its ceramic gas sensor technology platform to develop sensor devices aimed at battery health monitoring for Navy applications. Sensor formulations were identified and demonstrated for quantifying ppm-level hydrogen concentrations emitted from degraded hydrogen-emitting batteries (i.e. lead-acid, nickel-cadmium, and silver-zinc). Other formulations were established for detecting the VOC electrolytes emitted from degraded lithium ion batteries. In Phase II, the lithium ion battery off-gas sensing technology will be further developed to meet the wide range of requirements of military installations. The project will culminate with relevant field testing of military hardened prototype devices in the Phase II Option.