A Phase I SBIR Program for an Ultra-lightweight Lithium Air Battery for Unmanned Air Vehicles

This Small Business Innovation Research Phase II project will advance an efficient and lightweight power plant for Unmanned Air Vehicles by developing an ultra-lightweight lithium air battery coupled with an electric motor. Specifically, the project advanced lithium air batteries by: 1) optimizing a high capacity air cathode structure developed in Phase I; 2) tailoring electrolytes to the system; and 3) developing an oxygen selective membrane to increase oxygen diffusion from the atmosphere and mitigate water infusion into the battery. By improving the structure of the air cathode and using metal catalysts, the specific capacity of the cathodes were greatly improved. The developed air cathode structure is a carbon composite with a binding agent and metal catalyst. Metal catalysts are incorporated to enhance the oxygen reduction kinetics and capacity utilization, within the cathode structure. Yardney's experience and technologies in the zinc-air and Al-air power sources will be adopted in the design of the new large lithium air cells and batteries. Advantages of the proposed lithium air battery include a high energy, ultra-lightweight and safe design, environmentally friendly components, and an increased oxygen diffusion rate cathode.