PHYSICAL SCIENCES INC. — Department of Defense SBIR Phase I: N152-093

Description

Physical Sciences, Inc. proposes to demonstrate a rechargeable Li-S cell with energy density >600Wh/kg. Phase I testing will demonstrate the efficient, reversible operation of the cell design results in long cycle life. PSI will demonstrate the ability to form a high performance sulfur cathode that maximizes the useable capacity and full cell energy density. PSI will also demonstrate the ability to incorporate novel additives, cell design techniques, and operating protocols to achieve the desired cycling performance. Pouch cell construction will demonstrate the scalability of the proposed technologies and lay the ground work for multi-Ah cell builds in Phase II. A non-flammable electrolyte will be developed and demonstrated in the Li-S cell, offering a safer alternative to the conventional flammable solvent blends. During the option effort, the extended cycling performance of the cells will be determined and the abuse tolerance of the design determined. For the optimal system, a plan will be developed for producing the larger cells necessary for the Phase II prototype demonstration. The Phase II prototype cell construction and testing efforts will highlight the ability to form safe, high energy cells with the developed technology.