Electrochemical characterization for hybrid battery-propellant processes
Abstract
The project aims to design and study two classes of alkali metal-based battery-propellant hybrid systems- the first based on existing electrochemical systems and the second on a proposed sodium-aluminum catholyte battery with enhanced energy density. After use as secondary rechargeable batteries, the anode of the battery can be melted and mixed with the liquid catholyte, resulting in a monopropellant. Experimental studies will be implemented to gain fundamental insight into the chemistry and physics of such hybrid systems and uncover initiation conditions. Meanwhile, the solid-liquid interfacial behavior of alkali metals will be elucidated and leveraged to suppress dendritic growth and reduce the risk of unintended thermal runaway. As a key enabler of the hybrid systems, a reliable mechanism for in-situ propellant preparation will be uncovered based on controlled melting and mixing of the alkali metal anode with the cathode-catholyte.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Mar 07, 2024
- Source ID
- FA95502310640
Entities
People
- Hai Wang
Organizations
- Air Force Office of Scientific Research
- Stanford University
- United States Air Force