Unlocking Next-Gen Warfare with Scalable, Ultra High-Power Batteries to enable Directed Energy & C-sUAS systems

The proposed Phase II will improve will improve the conductivity, lifetime, and thermal stability of the ultra high diffusivity electrolyte developed during Phase I with computationally identified solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) forming active additives that drastically reduce interfacial resistance for high power applications. The resulting high conductivity carbonate-free electrolyte will have a conductivity of at least 55 mS/cm2 at 20°C, have a melting point below -40°C, and exhibit no thermal degradation between -46°C to 75°C as measured by differential scanning calorimetry. The adapted electrolyte will be integrated into Commercial Off The Shelf (COTS) cylindrical cells fabricated by existing battery defense manufacturers (Forge Nano LOS attached) and evaluated under MIL-PRF-29595 and S9310- AQ-SAF-010 conditions by the University of Tennessee to ensure that the target performance meets or exceeds the specifications existing lithium-ion battery modules. The cylindrical cells will then be assembled into DEW compatible battery modules and evaluated in the ultra-high power conditions for mission impact across DEW and C-sUAS systems. The high rate capability, low internal resistance, and improved low temperature performance results in a battery that EXCEEDS the ambitious energy storage demands for these weapon systems.  This Phase II will result in TRL-7 scalable, ultra-high power lithium ion battery cylindrical cells capable of achieving 100C pulse discharge, specific power of >9 kW/kg, and power density >12 kW/L and can satisfy the demanding needs of DEW, C-sUAS, and e-VTOL systems.