Development of Rechargeable Thermal Batteries (Phase II)

Physical Sciences Inc. (PSI) will construct and deliver a full-scale prototype rechargeable thermal battery (RTB) that delivers the targeted energy density (>250 Wh/L) at the targeted power density (>10 kW/L) while meeting all mass and form factor requirements. This battery will be constructed by combining PSI’s high active (HA) cathode electrodes, thermally-activated electrolyte, and novel lithium metal cell construction. During the Phase II, PSI will scale up the production of electrodes and electrolyte in order to construct the targeted number of batteries. The Phase II will build upon the Phase I efforts by evaluating the effect of extended periods in the inert state and building successively larger test cells and batteries. Discharge rate performance of cells and batteries will be evaluated to ensure that the PSI cell design is suitable for the targeted application. Phase III activities are anticipated to focus on the qualification and initial low rate production for the targeted initial application.