Review of Chloroaluminate Systems for Thermal Battery Applications
Abstract
Production thermal batteries conventionally use LiCl-KCl electrolyte and therefore operate only at very high temperatures (400-600 deg C). Used of this highly conductive, high temperature electrolyte maximizes available current densities but imposes a severe thermal stress on surrounding components. Excellent insulation is required to insure an active life of more than a few minutes. We have found the equimolar NaCl-AlCl3 mixture to be a reasonable electrolyte at much lower operating temperatures where low to moderate current densities can be tolerated. Single cell studies made over a temperature range of 175-275 deg C and a current density range of 15-150 mA/cm (expn 2) showed that LiAl was a suitable anode material, and chlorides of copper(II), iron(III), and molybdenum(V) were suitable cathode materials. The Eureka Company, under Air Force contract, has successfully built and tested thermal batteries based on chloroaluminate electrolytes. This paper reviews relevant characteristics of chloroaluminate electrolytes, summarizes single cell research, describes present status of battery development, and indicates areas of current research.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA138565
Entities
People
- L. A. King
- R. L. Vaughn
Organizations
- Air Force Research Laboratory