July 25, 2024

Researchers engineering batteries for the extreme cold

Solid-state battery systems to advance Australia’s space exploration

A new project by University of Wollongong (UOW) researchers to develop battery systems that can withstand extremely cold temperatures, including in outer Space, has been awarded a prestigious national grant.

Professor Jung Ho Kim and Professor Konstantin Konstantinov, both based in the Faculty of Engineering and Information Sciences at UOW, received a National Intelligence and Security Discovery Research Grant from the Australian Government’s Office of National Intelligence. UOW is among only 10 teams nationwide to receive the funding. It is the first time a UOW project has secured these highly competitive grants, underlining the researchers’ exceptional capabilities in battery technology.

The project will see the design and advancement of an innovative battery device able to operate in temperatures below -40℃.

The goal is to explore new battery configurations using solid electrolytes, as opposed to the liquids or pastes used in existing batteries, and eliminates carbon-based graphite used in traditional anodes. Using advanced manufacturing techniques, the project will work to produce state-of-the-art all-solid-state batteries, designed not to be compromised by or fail in extreme conditions.

Currently, traditional batteries don’t perform well in icy conditions. Their speed and ability to supply power can be significantly hindered as the temperature drops in cold regions of earth, or in the extremes of space.

Professor Kim said, if successful, the battery systems would align with the increased focus on space utilisation and exploration.

“Batteries are crucial for extended space research due to their energy storage and high-power output. However, they face challenges like limited energy capacity and weight constraints.

“As space exploration progresses, developing compact, lightweight batteries with high-energy output for cold environments remains a key challenge,” Professor Kim said.

“Through our efforts, we aim to revolutionise exploration in uncharted realms.”

The project focus on using advanced technology to create battery systems that can operate in extremely cold environments will also go a long way towards increasing Australia’s technological advantages.

UOW Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Vice President (Research and Sustainable Futures) Professor David Currow congratulated the duo on their success in the highly competitive grants.

“The valuable insights gained from this fascinating field of research will illuminate new paths in our understanding and build on Australia’s expertise in battery systems. Professor Kim and Professor Konstantinov’s research will pave the way for exciting advancements and deepen our knowledge and technology nous in remarkable ways,” Professor Currow said.

UOW is committed to addressing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which provide a shared blueprint to achieve a better and more sustainable future for everyone. This project addresses Goal 9, Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure.