Thermally Resistant Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Lunar Applications

It is important to consider lithium-ion battery limitations particularly regarding temperature range, to ensure safe and successful mission outcomes. We have developed a gel polymer electrolyte that meets stringent requirements of high safety, stability, and non-flammabilitynbsp;for implantable medical devices and plannbsp;to further developnbsp;this electrolyte for use in cells operating in extreme environmentsnbsp;(-230 to 120˚C)nbsp;and high voltages (gt;4.2 V). Our results show negligible loss in capacity over 4500 cycles, no damage to cell reversibility after extended periods of time at 0˚C operation, and no emission or flames during overcharge and external short circuit tests within LFP|LTO cells that contain our safenbsp;and stablenbsp;electrolyte.nbsp;By carefully selecting additives, we aim to overcome common performance issues and enable operation in extreme environments. We will combine this with a high-voltage cathode and graphite anode to achieve exceptional temperature stability, safe operation, and optimal performance in extreme environments.