High Capacity, Lightweight , and Compact Thermal Energy Storage (TES) Technologies and Systems

Aqwest proposes to develop novel, high-performance thermal energy storage (TES) technologies and a TES integration concept for thermal management (TM) of directed energy weapons (DEW). In particular, we will develop a packed bed (PB) and sorption-based (SB) TES concepts, and a TES integration into a high-performance (HP) thermal management system (TMS), each offering unparalleled compactness and lightweight. The proposed project will produce major benefits to the Air Force: 1) TES with up to 250 kJ/kg & 254 MJ/m3 @20°C; and up to 600 kJ/kg & 430 MJ/m3 @40°C, 2) TES integration concept offering 3-10x reduction in size and weight, 3) Gravity independent TMS: compatible with maneuvering airborne platforms, 4) TMS operation independent of DEW power supply, and 5) TMS response <<1 second from cold start. In Phase I, we will develop TM requirements for a solid-state HEL on a C-130 tactical platform, evaluate the concepts for PB and SB TES, and optimize the concept for TES integration into HP-TMS. In Phase II, we will complete the design and construct each a subscale PB-TES, BS-TES and a subscale HP-TMS for demonstration testing under representative conditions. Other applications of the proposed technology include high-capacity cooling of intermittent heat loads in commercial systems.