THERMAL BATTERY.
Abstract
A research program is being conducted to define and eliminate those problems at the Cl2 electrode which prevent the Li-Cl2 battery from operating as a practical and reliable missile energy source. This application requires a high power density, high rate primary thermal battery. A pressure test cell for studying the effect of impurities on the performance of Cl2 electrodes was completed. Concentration polarization data were obtained in this cell for Poco AX graphite electrodes at pressures up to 5 atm using various mixtures of Ar and Cl2. Four laboratory demonstration cells were tested at pressures up to 3 atm. Power densities of 18 and 19 w/sq cm were demonstrated with discharge times up to 20 min. Tests were conducted on the effects of excess Cl2 flow rate on cell voltage to determine the minimum flow requirements without excessive cathode polarization. Parametric scaling of the A1 battery design (zero g, heat radiated) was completed over a range of power levels, power density, and operating times. Energy densities up to 190 w-hr/lb were obtained. A power density of 20 w/sq cm and a power level of 5 kw yielded near optimum systems on a weight and volume basis. Parametric scaling of the A2 battery design (zero g, with a heat sink) was also completed. The requirements for low battery case temperatures using a heat sink reduced the energy densities to about 95 w-hr/lb. A power density of 20 w/sq cm and power level of 10 kw provided maximum energy densities. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1967
- Accession Number
- AD0805047
Entities
People
- Dom A. J. Swinkels
- Earl H. Hietbrink
- Gale M. Craig
- John J. Petraits
Organizations
- General Motors