Advanced Low Temperature Ionic Liquids for Naval Electrochemical Devices

The development of improved power sources (supercapacitors and batteries) is critical to meet the current and future needs of Naval air weapons systems. Thermal batteries currently used for Naval air weapons are not rechargeable, do not operate at extreme low temperatures which can be encountered during operation (-60 degrees Celsius), and do not have a supply stream sufficient for Navy demands. Current reversible supercapacitors and batteries do not operate reliably and safely at extreme temperatures (-60 to +60 degrees Celsius) due to their organic solvent-based electrolytes. High energy density, high power density supercapacitors based on ionic liquid electrolytes and polymer electrodes can provide reversible, safe power systems for Navy air weapons systems, however ionic liquids that function adequately at sub-zero Celsius temperatures have not been developed. During the Phase I, Lynntech developed advanced ionic liquid electrolytes which showed high conductivities over -60 to +60 degrees Celsius and allowed reversible charging of electroactive polymer electrodes. During the Phase II, Lynntech will develop advanced ionic liquid-based supercapacitors with high energy densities, high power densities, long cycle lives, and the ability to function at extreme temperatures. The advanced prototype supercapacitors will provide reversible power devices for Naval air warfare systems and other applications.