STRUCTURAL ULTRA-COMPACT FLAT BATTERIES BASED ON HIGH SPECIFIC ENERGY MATERIALS EXPRO+

To develop ultra-compact and structurally integrated flat batteries using materials with high specific energy.Description: Structural flat batteries that enhance spacecraft performance while reducing launch costs and system complexity show high potential in thepresent satellite market. This activity aims to develop ultra-compact, structurally integrated flat batteries using materials with high specific energy, for space applications with the intent of optimizing energy storage efficiency, while reducing weight and volume. The activity aims at exploring advanced materials, processes, and innovative designs to enhance performance and integration within spacecraft structures. This activity encompasses the following tasks: - Literature review on Advanced Materials and structural batteries: Investigate and identify materials with high specific energy, that are/could be suitable for space applications. This includes studying their properties, performance, and compatibility with spacecraft structures and environment. - Innovative Design and Integration: Develop innovative designs that allow for integration of flat batteries within spacecraft structures. This involves optimizing the battery's shape, size, and placement to ensure efficient energy storage and minimal impact on the spacecraft's overall weight and volume. - Process Development: Explore advanced manufacturing processes to produce flat batteries. This includes techniques such as 3D printing, layering, and other methods that can enhance the battery's performance and integration. The capability of the supply chain shall be key to ensure industry competitiveness, by improving its affordability and industrialization and to reduce totaltime required to source materials, manufacture and deliver the battery. Furthermore, European independence in procurement and finalcosts should be taken into account. - Performance Enhancement: Conduct experiments and simulations to enhance the battery's performance. This should include testing the batteries under various conditions to ensure they meet the required standards for space applications. - Integration Testing: Perform integration tests to ensure the batteries work seamlessly within the spacecraft structures. This should include testing the batteries' compatibility with other systems and components.Procurement Policy: C(2) = A relevant participation (in terms of quality and quantity) of non-primes (incl. SMEs) is required. 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.