Novel Electrolytes for -100°C Lithium Battery Applications

NASA requires advanced high power primary lithium batteries for ultra low temperature applications. The key component that limits the performance at low temperature is the battery electrolyte. Proof-of-concept experiments have shown that Covalent's new non-aqueous electrolyte formulations greatly enhance low temperature primary battery performance while preserving its long shelf life. At temperatures as low as -100oC, our new electrolyte demonstrates superior transport properties due to minimal triple ion formation. Accelerated storage tests revealed no voltage delay indicative of a stable passive film formed on the lithium anode. When coupled with a high energy density cathode material such as carbon monofluoride (CFx), our new electrolyte formulations will enable primary lithium primary performance over a broad spectrum of ultra low temperature applications. Specifically, Li/CFx batteries incorporating the new Covalent electrolytes will deliver more than 30% of their room temperature capacity at temperatures as low as -100oC at practical discharge rates.