High-power lithium technology for the military

摘要

The US Department of Defence recently identified the need for a reliable high-power battery for single-use military applications as a 'critical problem demanding significant attention. Demand for high voltage/high-rate batteries is growing for applications like guidance systems for rockets and missiles, smart ammunition, torpedoes, mines, sonobuoys, unattended ground sensors, UAVs, artillery fuses, active decoy systems, trajectory correction add-on kits, proximity fuses for bombs and sensors for dispersed munitions. These devices require batteries that deliver high voltage and high power rates for short periods of time, ranging from fractions of a second to several hours. Design engineers must consider extremely long shelf life, rapid activation, size/volume/ weight limitations, capacity and energy density requirements, and the ability to test the battery to ensure system readiness. Certain battery technologies also require squibs (pyrotechnic charges) or gas generators for start-up; thermal insulation to protect against internal heat, and heating elements to ensure reliable operation at low temperatures.