Low-Cost, Double-Side Cooled Medium-Voltage Power Modules for Grid Application
Abstract
This project is aimed at developing low-cost, double-side cooled medium-voltage power modules for grid application. By leveraging advanced materials and innovative assembly processes, such as sintered-silver die-attach, double-sided cooling, and polymer nanocomposite field grading, the power modules will have significantly enhanced thermal performance, reliability, and insulation capabilities. These advancements will address critical challenges in power electronics integration for grid and naval systems. Another core component of this project is the integration of education and training for military-affiliated students. At least one veteran or military-affiliated graduate student and undergraduate students from programs like ROTC, the Virginia Tech Corps of Cadets, or the Defense Civilian Training Corps will engage in interdisciplinary research combining materials science and power electronics. These opportunities will prepare military students for careers in advanced energy systems, contributing to the Navy s future technological needs. The proposed research holds strong commercial potential. It builds upon the PI s 25+ years of research experience and existing partnerships to develop cost-effective, scalable manufacturing processes for MV power modules. The prototypes, featuring superior thermal management and reliability, will be demonstrated in practical applications such as buck DC-DC converters. High-power tests at mediumvoltage levels will validate the performance of the modules under real-world conditions, emphasizing their suitability for both defense and civilian grid application. The technology will also be showcased at high-profile events, including the ARPA-E Technology Showcase and ECCE exhibitions, highlighting its innovative design and broad application potential. Entrepreneurial activities, supported by Virginia Tech s LAUNCH Center for New Ventures, will further explore pathways for its technology-to-market potential.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Apr 10, 2025
- Source ID
- N000142512238
Entities
People
- Guo Quan Lu
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- United States Navy
- Virginia Tech