Li-ion Polymer Cell

Overview:

• Lithium-based Polymer batteries are being developed as an energy storage system for a variety of applications, including planetary orbiters, rovers, and landers, GEO* and LEO satellites* and the Reusable Launch Vehicles. This compact, lightweight technology will enable and enhance missions within each of the NASA Science Themes - Astronomical Search for Origins, Sun-Earth Connection, Solar System Exploration, and Structures and Evolution of the Universe.

Objective:

• Establish world-class technology capability that will ensure US leadership in polymer battery technology.

Approach:

• Develop collaborative/cooperative relationships to leverage existing programs
• Develop components to address aerospace requirements
• Develop component screening facility
• Develop aerospace Li-based cells in appropriate cell sizes
• Establish manufacturing processes to ensure predictable performance
• Develop batteries multiple configuration
• Develop smart battery management electronics
• Fabricate and test batteries for NASA and Air Force* applications
• Demonstrate performance goals

Benefits:

• Performance Advantages:
  • Reduced battery weight and volume - 3x the specific energy and 10x energy density of conventional Ni-Cd and Ni-H₂ systems.
  • Improved energy and coulombic efficiency
  • Lower self-discharge rates
• Reduced system complexity
  • Higher cell operating voltage (3.5 volts vs. 1.2 volts)
  • Conformable geometry - cells are flexible
  • Reduced cost - cell and battery level manufacturing
• Smart batteries - independent cell charge/discharge controllers
  • Keeps cells in balance
  • Extends cycle life
  • Reduced heat generation rates.

Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery vs. Nickel-Hydrogen Battery

	Prototype Lithium-Ion Polymer Battery 30 volts, 50 AH Battery 8 Cells 1500 Wh - 20 kg total mass - 75 Whr/kg 7.8 liter vol - 190 Wh/l
	Nickel-Hydrogen Battery 33 volts, 35 AH Battery 27 cells 1150 Wh - 30 kg total mass - 40 Wh/kg 59 liter vol - 20 Wh/l

Aerospace Applications:

• Commercial and military satellites
• Deep space and planetary missions
• Planetary rovers *
• STS and launch vehicles
• Aeronautics

Terrestrial Applications:

• Commercial consumer electronics
  • Portable computers
  • cellular phones
  • camcorders
  • power tools
• Electric vehicle power* 
• Portable and stationary power

Points of contact Michelle Manzo and Dr. Richard S. Baldwin

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For more information, please contact NASA Responsible Official: Michelle A. Manzo, Chief, Electrochemistry Branch (216-433-5261)
Web Curator: Dawn Jenkins SGT, Inc.
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Last Updated: 02/06/2003