DEVELOPMENT OF ULTRA-HIGH ENERGY DENSITY BATTERY CELLS (500 WH/KG) EXPRO+

To develop ultra-high energy density battery cells with specific energy of 500 Wh / kg (e.g. Lithium sulphur, Lithium-metal anode etc).Description: Deep space missions demand energy storage solutions that significantly outperform current state-of-the-art technologies in terms of specific energy density, reliability and resilience under extreme environmental conditions. As missions move beyond the Earth orbit toward the Moon, Mars and beyond, spacecraft must operate autonomously for extended periods without the possibility of recharge or maintenance. This requires batteries with ultra-high energy density, that can maximize the mission duration and system efficiency, whilst minimizing the mass of the units. These batteries must also withstand vacuum, a high temperature range and radiation conditions. The development of high specific energy battery cells is an asset to reduce the mass and volume of the battery units. This activity focusses on defining an ultra-high energy density battery cell chemistry. Upon selected chemistry it develops abreadboard of a battery. This activity encompasses the following tasks: - Technology survey and selection: Review and assess emerging battery chemistries and architectures with the highest potential for space applications. Select the most promising candidates forfurther development. - Material and cell development: Develop and optimize materials and electrochemical cells that meet the defined requirements, including electrodes, novel electrolytes, and the design of ultra-high energy density cell formats. - Prototype designand assembly: Design, manufacture and assemble a cell or battery prototype. Emphasis should be placed on minimizing the final mass,while enhancing safety and durability. - Performance testing and validation: Perform environmental and performance testing, including thermal cycling, vacuum exposure, vibration, life-tests and radiation tolerance, to validate the operational readiness of the developed cells. - Roadmap and industrialization strategy: Develop a roadmap for technology maturation and space qualification. Outlinean industrialization and scale up strategy, including potential partnerships with European industry to secure long term supply capabilities.Procurement Policy: C(1) = Activity restricted to non-prime contractors (incl. SMEs). For additional information please go to:http://www.esa.int/About_Us/Business_with_ESA/Small_and_Medium_Sized_Enterprises/Opportunities_for_SMEs/Procurement_policy_on_fair_access_for_SMEs_-_the_C1-C4_Clauses.