Advanced Non-Flammable Electrolytes for Lithium-Ion Batteries

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries with improved safety, abuse tolerance, reliability, and volumetric and gravimetric energy densities are needed for Navy aircraft including the Joint Strike Fighter, H-1 Light Attack Helicopter, and other aircraft. Despite their high energy densities, current lithium-ion batteries can combust and release highly toxic chemicals under failure mechanisms such as overcharging, internal shorting, defects, physical damage, overheating, etc. Lynntech has developed advanced electrolytes that are non-flammable and that can provide Li-ion batteries with similar performance (e.g. energy density, power density, cycle life, calendar life, temperature range) compared with batteries utilizing conventional electrolytes. The Phase II project will optimize the electrolyte composition, test the performance in packaged cells, develop a process for scaled-up production of the electrolyte, and deliver prototype cells to the Navy for testing and evaluation. The advanced non-flammable electrolyte will provide battery modules for Navy aircraft that have improved safety and abuse tolerance.