Li-Air batteries are a unique fit for electric aircraft due to their high theoretical energy densities and their potential to leverage on-board oxygen systems. The electrolyte and cathode are the limiting factors for advancing this technology. We are investigating novel “electrolyte and cathode engineering” concepts to enable Li-Air batteries with high practical energy densities, rechargeability and safety. New stable electrolytes and cathodes are being designed and fabricated for Li-Air batteries and tested in an electric flight. An array of various electrolytes were screened and analyzed using NMR and GC-MS techniques to understand the fundamental decomposition mechanisms at the cathode surface and within the porous polymer separator. This work integrates predictive computation with the experimental screening approach to elucidate the electrolyte decomposition mechanisms.

Decomposition mechanisms of novel electrolytes within Li-air batteries for NASA electric aircraft

2019 Spring National Meeting

The official archive and repository for all ACS Meetings & Expositions abstracts and select posters or presentations.