Additive Manufacturing for Naval Aviation Battery Applications

Texas Research Austin (TRI-Austin) will partner with the University of Texas, Austin, and will use diverse printing technologies to fabricate the components of selected battery chemistries (Li-ion, Zn-air, Zn-Ag). In the Phase I base period, each battery component will be printed with a technology that has been previously used to deposit the required material (i.e. ADM for metals, SLS for polymers, pneumatic solvent extrusion for polymers and inorganic active electrode slurries, screen/slot-die coating for active material slurries). Where possible, the team will compare the performance of multiple technologies for printing a single material, to have a basis for comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each approach. In the Phase I option period, fundamental research studies will seek to expand the materials palette and deposition capabilities of ADM by establishing printing protocols for metals and polymeric materials that have not been previously reported for ADM. In addition, the Phase I option will demonstrate proof-of concept for a printed conformal battery form factor. The ultimate goal of Phase II and III is to produce a self-contained, stand-alone additive fabrication device/process based on a single deposition technology, or as few as necessary.