Next generation silent, self-powered electrochemical actuators
Abstract
Approved for Public Release The research problem and objectives for the proposed work include the modelling, fabrication, and experimental validation of the actuator metrics of lithium-ion battery actuators in a flexible pouch cell. Further objectives include the use of stochastic design optimization strategies to inform optimal experimental design using computationally efficient predictive analytical models. The technical approach of the fabrication component involves the creation of lithium-ion batteries with custom composite silicon anodes and testing in an experimental chamber where the deflection is made visible. To achieve measurement of blocked force and blocked deflection, an experimental setup with a load cell and linear stage will be used to measure the force capabilities of electrochemical actuators for the first time. Due to the difficulty of effective lithium-ion battery encapsulation, aluminized pouch cells will be used for initial testing and will be followed by flexible, inert polymers for compliant encapsulation such as PDMS or parylene. Further technical approaches include the use of the experimental data created on electrochemical actuator force and deflection capabilities to validate and extend existing analytical models and simulations. Anticipated outcomes of the research include the novel experimental validation of several actuator metrics for electrochemical actuators, including blocked deflection, blocked force, and actuator force for a given tip displacement. The generation of these results will allow for the comparison of self-powered electrochemical actuators against comparable other actuation mechanisms. The end result of the work developed is a battery-based actuator that can achieve tens of cycles of silent actuation, under its own power. By charging both cells of the battery partially full, charge can be redistributed through the battery to enable the production of useful work by the battery on its environment without any constant external power source. The extension and validation of existing models will enable the DoD to predict and compare actuator characteristics for a range of multilayer structures and be more confident in their accuracy. The development of silent, self-powered actuators will enable the improved survivability of naval platforms, and the smart conformal nature of the actuators will allow for further development and modeling of conformable surfaces. Lastly, the success of the proposed work will test the viability of next generation, multifunctional batteries with a superior battery capacity of upwards of 1000% improvement over current commercial graphite-based batteries. It is anticipated that by allowing for the controlled expansion of silicon nanoparticle active material, the battery will be able to do both useful mechanical work on its environment and retain its capacity over more charging cycles.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Nov 08, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412602
Entities
People
- Cody Gonzalez
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- University of Texas at San Antonio