Development and Test of Safe, High-Power, Lithium-Ion Main Batteries for General Aviation Aircraft

摘要

Advanced chemistry batteries may help reduce weight and increase aircraft performance. Lithium-Ion chemistries' high energy density enables 40% weight savings over existing baseline, Lead-Acid and Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries. Baseline requirements for Lithium-Ion batteries were developed by studying Cessna's aircraft product line. Nanoscale phosphate-based Lithium-Ion cathodes improve safety through inert failure modes, while delivering higher power over conventional oxide-based, Lithium-Ion and baseline chemistries. Cells and batteries were tested under selected load, environmental, and temperature conditions using procedures adapted from RTCA DO-293 and DO-160. On-board aircraft testing verified performance compatibility. Safety tests verified inert failure mode and flight environment compatibility. Test results showed nanoscale phosphate Lithium-Ion batteries are promising as a safe, high-power, Lithium-Ion main battery in general aviation aircraft.