Nebula Public Library

The knowledge bank of ESA’s R&D programmes

Preparation of enabling space technologies and building blocks: Passive Propagation Resistant Battery

Programme
GSTP
Programme Reference
GT17-137TIaw
Prime Contractor
Xerotech Ltd
Start Date
End Date
Status
Closed
Country
Ireland
Objectives
Define the optimal foam material properties and processing parameters for manufacturing the foam.
Determine the optimal cell spacing and characterization of a foamed module.
Evaluation of a passive propagation resistant battery module for space-readiness.
Description
Lithium-ion battery cells are used extensively in Space applications; however, they can fail in some instances.
One form of failure is thermal runaway, characterized by a rapid increase in temperature, venting of gases, cell rupture and particle ejection.
Thermal runaway of one Lithium-ion cell can propagate to adjacent cells within a pack causing complete failure.
Here, we set out to test and qualify a passive thermal runaway propagation resistant foam, Xerotherm®,  for use in Space applications.
Application Domain
Generic Technologies
Technology Domain
3 - Space Systems Electrical Power
Competence Domain
10-Astrodynamics, Space Debris and Space Environment
2-Structures, Mechanisms, Materials, Thermal
4-Electric Architecture, Power and Energy, EMC
Initial TRL
TRL N/A
Target TRL
TRL N/A
Public Document
Executive Summary