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A high power lithium thionyl chloride battery for space applicationsA high power, 28 V, 330 A h, active lithium thionyl chloride battery has been developed for use as main and payload power sources on an expendable launch vehicle. Nine prismatic cells, along with the required electrical components and a built-in heater system, are efficiently packaged resulting in significant weight savings over presently used silver-zinc batteries. The high rate capability is achieved by designing the cells with a large electrochemical surface area and impregnating an electrocatalyst, polymeric phthalocyanine, into the carbon cathodes. Passivation effects are reduced with the addition of sulfur dioxide into the thionyl chloride electrolyte solution. The results of conducting a detailed thermal analysis are utilized to establish the heater design parameters and the thermal insulation requirements of the battery. An analysis of cell internal pressure and vent characteristics clearly illustrates the margins of safety under different operating conditions. Performance of fresh cells is discussed using polarization scan and discharge data at different rates and temperatures. Self-discharge rate is estimated based upon test results on cells after storage. Results of testing a complete prototype battery are described.
Document ID
19930064085
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Shah, Pinakin M.
(Alliant Techsystems, Inc., Power Sources Center Horsham, PA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
March 15, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: Journal of Power Sources
Volume: 43
Issue: 1-3
ISSN: 0378-7753
Subject Category
Energy Production And Conversion
Accession Number
93A48082
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other

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