STABLE INORGANIC MATRIX MATERIALS FOR HIGH TEMPERATURE BATTERIES.

Abstract

The objective of the program was to prepare and evaluate inorganic formulations for applications as separators in high temperature batteries. In particular, this program emphasized materials that have the capability for sustained operation in fused salt electrolyte cells containing lithium anodes. Although the most important requirement for the inorganic separator was lithium compatibility, a satisfactory separator had to provide adequate electrode separation, low internal cell resistance, compatibility with the cathode, and resistance to degradation by the molten electrolyte. Promising inorganic separator formulations were tested for compatibility with lithium metal and LiCl-KCl fused salt electrolyte at 500C, and a number of physical properties were determined. These included electrical conductivity, ionic conductivity, and transverse strength. Final evaluations of promising separator formulations, in cup form, were made in Li-Cl2 cell test fixtures. The most promising separators were based upon magnesia, thoria, magnesium aluminate, calcium zirconate, and aluminum nitride. (Of these, magnesia, thoria, and magnesium aluminate proved best, closely followed by calcium zirconate and aluminum nitride in relation to cell tests, physical properties, and fabrication.) It is concluded that these five separator materials will function satisfactorily in Li-Cl2 fused salt high temperature batteries at 500C for at least 150 hours. (Author)

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1968
Accession Number
AD0676106

Entities

People

  • Frank C. Arrance
  • M. J. Plizga

Organizations

  • Douglas

Tags

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aluminates
  • Aluminum
  • Aluminum Nitrides
  • Conductivity
  • Electrical Conductivity
  • Electrolytes
  • High Temperature
  • Ionic Liquids
  • Magnesium
  • Materials
  • Metals
  • Nitrides
  • Physical Properties
  • Resistance
  • Separators
  • Test Fixtures

Fields of Study

  • Materials science

Readers

  • Electrochemical Engineering/ Fuel Cell Technologies
  • Surface Engineering/Surface Coating Technology.