High Power and Energy Density, Electrical Energy Storage Device

Naval aircraft and the Joint Strike Fighter in particular face the challenge of adding functionality while avoiding weight increases that could hinder performance. Additionally, electrical power-hungry features such as electro-hydrostatic actuators for flight control surfaces and the possibility of future additions such as regenerative power and directed energy weapons increase the need for reliable power on the aircraft. To address this need, ADA proposes the use of nanostructured electrodes and ionic liquid gel polymer electrolytes for advanced ultracapacitors that will enable increased power and energy density by achieving higher operating voltages and better electrolyte conductivity/accessibility. Further, the use of an ionic liquid electrolyte will improve device safety due to the material"s inherent non-volatility / non-flammability.