Next-Generation Aluminum Molten Air Battery for Munition Systems

Due to increasing specific power and specific energy requirements for advanced Air Force weapon systems, next-generation power sources that satisfy those strict requirements are necessary. Metal-Air batteries are a perfect candidate to exceed the minimum specific energy requirement of 750Wh/kg, however, low ionic conductivity of current electrolytes, limits the capability to achieve a specific power of >2kW/kg.  During Phase I, Lynntech has demonstrated feasibility for a molten salt electrolyte based metal air battery that can provide a safe, energy and power dense power source option for the missile application.  The proposed battery design has also an innovative integration strategy into the current missile structures for addressing the mass and volume constraints and utilizing the waste thermal energy from the missile structures.  The Phase II project will target optimization of performance and demonstration of the battery concept in a subscale prototype.  This next-generation power source will be of benefit for advanced weapon systems, satellites, tactical vehicles, and other systems. Along with military applications, this technology could benefit any private sector where very high power and very high energy are both required, without compromising in safety and storage life.