Conformal Safe Solid-State (CS3) Li Metal Battery (LMB)

Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) aims to explore, develop, and employ advanced battery technologies with specific attributes. The focus is on achieving high energy density and adaptable power density while ensuring the batteries have low Size, Weight, Power Consumption and Cost (SWaP-C) characteristics. These batteries are envisioned to be highly versatile, stretchable, and shape-changing to suit their use in Bomber aircraft, as well as for internal and externally carried weaponry and electronic equipment. They are initially going to be a secondary support for AgilePod and the systems within the capsule.Ā Additionally, depending on the solution it may be adapted to other systems within the Bomber platforms. Current battery power systems, such as the rechargeable Li-ion battery (LIBs), are limited in energy and form factor (hard box). In addition to these limitations, current Li-ion batteries also have safety risks associated with catastrophic failure due to the flammable and corrosive nature of the electrolyte. This risk is a major concern when considering batteries used in aircraft. The use of solid-state batteries may offer enhanced safety and increased energy density. However, current solid-state battery technology typically relies on metal oxide or sulfide electrolytes, which cannot be rapidly charged or discharged at low temperatures and is not manufacturable. In addition to inadequate combinations of energy and power, and safety concerns, current Li-ion battery systems are not flexible allowing them to conform to various sized platforms. To meet AFGSCÆs requirements, Lynntech proposes to develop a conformal safe solid-state (CS3) high energy and high-power Li metal battery (LMB) by using the combination of high conductivity flexible solid-state gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), high-capacity flexible GPE-coated Li metal anodes, and flexible GPE-coated single crystal nickel-rich metal oxide cathodes. This approach will offer a CS3 LMB battery with a high energy density, long cycle life over a wide operating temperature range, high-rate capability, high inherent material- and system-safety that can conform to the desired shape. During Phase I, Lynntech will focus on designing, preparing, and characterizing GPEs, GPE-impregnated cathodes, and GPE-coated Li anodes. We will also fabricate and test the corresponding flexible solid-state Li metal full cells and develop an initial prototype battery design. Flexibility and safety testing will also be performed. During Phase II, Lynntech will further optimize the cell components with improved mechanical flexibility/stability and demonstrate prototype high-energy CS3 LMBs. Lynntech will also perform preliminary cell abuse tolerance testing and design of scalable cell manufacturing working together with an established battery manufacturer.