What are structural batteries?

This type of batteries is commonly referred to as “structural batteries”. Two general methods have been explored to develop structural batteries: (1) integrating batteries with light and strong external reinforcements, and (2) introducing multifunctional materials as battery components to make energy storage devices themselves structurally robust.

What is a laminated structural battery architecture?

Figure 1. Laminated structural battery architecture. Structural batteries are hybrid and multifunctional composite materials able to carry load and store electrical energy in the same way as a lithium ion battery.

How are structural batteries made?

Structural batteries can be made using a traditional laminated battery architecture similar to that of a fibre reinforced polymer composite laminate in which the positive electrode is also reinforced with carbon fibres coated with lithium iron phosphate. Figure 2. Structural battery aircraft structure.

What should be considered in the design of rigid structural batteries?

In the design of rigid structural batteries, stress and deformation caused by the expansion of carbon fiber electrodes should be considered .

Is a structural Battery A proof-of-concept?

This study explores the development of multifunctional materials for structural batteries at the material level, demonstrating a functional all-fiber structural battery as proof-of-concept. To create a lighter battery with high energy density, three separators of varying thicknesses were examined.

Where is the structural battery composite located?

The structural battery composite is contained in a pouch bag as described in the Experimental Section. To further illustrate the electrochemical and mechanical functions, the structural battery composite is extracted from the pouch bag inside the glovebox and connected to an LED.