High Energy Density VB2/Air Batteries for Long Endurance UAVs

ABSTRACT: To provide longer operating time and reduced weight power supplies for military platforms including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and solider communication devices, transformative advances are needed to increase the electrochemical energy storage density of batteries. The energy densities of current batteries are restricted by their utilization of predominantly single electron per molecular site charge storage processes. Vanadium diboride (VB2) undergoes an extraordinary 11 electron per molecule electrochemical oxidation process. Coupling this anode with a high capacity air cathode provides VB2-air batteries that have a theoretical volumetric energy density greater than that of gasoline. During the Phase I, Lynntech demonstrated VB2-air batteries with high capacities and rate capabilities. The Phase II project involves developing VB2-air batteries which have practical anode thicknesses and which provide current densities and capacities needed for military applications. Specific work in the Phase II involves optimization of the material, development of thick, high performance VB2 electrodes, cell performance testing, and evaluation of cell performance under simulated conditions. The development of VB2-air cells can provide batteries with significantly longer operation time and/or reduced weight compared to existing batteries. BENEFIT: High energy density VB2-air batteries have significant commercial potential based on their substantially higher energy densities compared with current primary and rechargreable batteries. Specific benefits for DoD include extended duration unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight times, reduced carry weight for soldiers, and extended duration sensors. The battery has a dual use for both military and civilian applications. Military applications include UAVs, soldier power, communication systems, weapons systems, remote sensors, and surveillance systems. Private sector applications for Lynntech"s VB2-air batteries include consumer hearing aids, long endurance sensors, and a broad range of consumer electronic devices.