PROJECT TITLE: Energy Dense Alkaline Capacitors based on Nanoparticle Technology
TECHNICAL ABSTRACT (LIMIT 200 WORDS)
High surface area transition metal nitrides constitute an attractive approach towards low-cost, high-performance electrochemical capacitors as energy sources for a variety of applications. However, current NASA uses and other commercial applications require higher performance figures than those demonstrated by present technology. This is due in part to (i) low surface area deriving from large particle formation and densification in current fabrication processes; (ii) low conductivity due to the formation of oxides during synthesis, which result in poor electrochemical and cycling stability; and (iii), corrosion of commonly used current collectors.
In Phase I, we propose to fabricate and characterize electrochemical capacitors where selected nitride nanoparticles will make both the electrode material and current collector, The oxide-free nanoparticles will have a high surface area and conductivity, and will be used in a tight packaging configuration using novel lightweight, flexible, corrosion resistant and easily sealable current collectors in conjunction with an alkaline electrolyte. Energy density of the proposed innovation is expected to be more than double that of existing capacitors. High energy density and power density prototypes will be built at the end of Phase II in collaboration with Evans Capacitor Company and will be used for marketing during the Phase III program.
POTENTIAL COMMERCIAL APPLICATIONS
Use of low cost, high performance capacitors based on high surface area transition metal nitrides and alkaline electrolytes combined with low resistance, flexible and non corroding current collectors can be envisioned in automotive applications and backup power devices, and for providing large pulses in portable consumer electronics such as computers, displays and camcorders. High voltage devices such as hospital defibrillators and "smart" missiles will benefit from such a development.
NAME AND ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR
Matt Aldissi Fractal Systems, Inc. 14200 Carlson Circle Tampa , FL 33626 - 3001
NAME AND ADDRESS OF OFFEROR
Fractal Systems, Inc. 14200 Carlson Circle Tampa , FL 33626 - 3001