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Results for “solid-state lithium batteries”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

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1,813 records · Page 17
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
DOE OSTI2023

Photoelectrochemical materials for solar energy conversion

Research and development on semiconductors for applications in solar energy conversion has witnessed rapid growth over the past several decades. With the aim of producing chemical fuels from sunlight, intense research efforts have focused on the discovery of semiconductors with crystalline structures and chemical compositions that have the potential to satisfy the complex set of required photoelectrochemical properties. This chapter focuses on the foundational structure-property relationships of selected oxide and nitride semiconductors relevant to their uses as n-/p-type photoelectrodes and as photocatalysts. Their solid-state structures and compositions are described, with a special emphasis on strategies proven effective at targeting suitable band gaps with strong visible-light absorption, efficient charge separation and diffusion of charge carriers, and optimal band edge energies for driving surface redox reactions for water splitting.

O’Donnell, Shaun↗
NASA NTRS2022

Exploration of an Adaptive Routine for Battery Modeling

The purpose of this document is to explore the use of adaptive routines in battery modeling. The adaptive routines consist of real-time state estimators combined with battery parameter model components that are adjusted in real-time as battery data becomes available. Several aspects are explored. It is shown that model parameter identification is possible for simple battery models using available input/output data measurements. The online system identification used is recursive least squares. Model identification may be combined with a state observer such as the extended Kalman filter or the unscented Kalman filter to form an adaptive model combined with state estimation. However, such a combination is found to be problematic due to uncertainty, observability and stability issues. This paper is organized as follows. Section 1 introduces adaptive routines and possible roles they play in battery modeling. In Section 2 real-time parameter identification is described with results based on battery data. Section 3 reviews various state estimators and results using a simple battery model. In Section 4 parameter identification and state estimation are combined to form an adaptive routine. Finally, in Section 5 conclusions are drawn and future work is suggested.

Adaptive↗
DOE OSTI2025

Unconventional solitonic high-temperature superfluorescence from perovskites

Fast thermal dephasing limits macroscopic quantum phenomena to cryogenic conditions and hinders their use at ambient temperatures. For electronic excitations in condensed media, dephasing is mediated by thermal lattice motion. Therefore, taming the lattice influence is essential for creating collective electronic quantum states at high temperatures. Although there are occasional reports of high-T c quantum effects across different platforms, it is unclear which lattice characteristics and electron–lattice interactions lead to macroscopically coherent electronic states in solids. Here we studied intensity fluctuations in the macroscopic polarization during the emergence of superfluorescence in a lead halide perovskite and showed that spontaneously synchronized polaronic lattice oscillations accompany collective electronic dipole emission. We further developed an effective field model and theoretically confirmed that exciton–lattice interactions lead to a new electronically and structurally entangled coherent extended solitonic state beyond a critical polaron density. The analysis shows a phase transition with two processes happening in tandem: incoherent disordered polaronic lattice deformations establish an order, while macroscopic quantum coherence among excitons simultaneously emerges. Recombination of excitons in this state culminates in superfluorescence at high temperatures. Our study establishes fundamental connections between the transient superfluorescence process observed after the impulsive excitation of perovskites and general equilibrium phase transitions achieved by thermal cooling. By identifying various electron–lattice interactions in the perovskite structure and their respective role in creating collectively coherent electronic effects in solids, our work provides unprecedented insight into the design and development of new materials that exhibit high-temperature macroscopic quantum phenomena.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗
NASA NTRS2021

Mathematical Characterization of Battery Models

The purpose of this document is to demonstrate the use of the Extended Kalman Filter as a tool for battery state estimation and the estimation of battery state of charge. The mathematical details based on the equivalent circuit model are presented followed by an electrochemical engineering model. A simplified first-order model is used to demonstrate the procedure followed by second and third-order models. Next a simplified electrochemistry model is presented along with observer development. State observability is calculated for the simpler equivalent circuit models and the simplified electrochemistry model. An outline of the battery model parameter identification method is presented, and model performance based on experimental and flight data is demonstrated.

Battery↗
DOE OSTI2025

Methodology of Atomic Force Microscopy Visualization of Electrode–Electrolyte Interfaces

Electrochemical atomic force microscopy (EC-AFM) provides unprecedented insights into the microstructure of electrode–electrolyte interfaces during electrochemical reactions. However, performing EC-AFM measurements has many challenges, for example, drift, contamination, and probe degradation. We present solutions to these experimental issues through electrochemical cell design and carefully chosen experimental parameters. The possibility that the probes can react with the interface during scanning, generating false-positive electrochemical dynamics, is discussed as an example of the challenge of high-fidelity EC-AFM measurement. Here, we demonstrate this effect in highly ordered pyrolytic graphite and show that we could use electrochemical control of the AFM probe to enable high-fidelity in situ AFM visualization of solid–liquid interfaces during electrochemical reactions.

Electrochemical cells↗
DOE OSTI2026

Probing and Tuning Spatiotemporal pH Evolution in Aqueous Zinc Ion Batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (AZIBs) offer a combination of safety and low cost, but they suffer from dynamic pH fluctuations that drive parasitic reactions and capacity fading. In this review, we report the current mechanistic understanding of the dynamic pH evolution across the electrolyte-electrode interface and its role in triggering interphase instability. We summarize advanced strategies to regulate pH, including electrolyte engineering, electrode surface modification, and interphase construction. We further discuss current methods for probing pH dynamics and outline potential future approaches for gaining deeper mechanistic and design insights.

Zheng, Xueli [SLAC]↗
NASA NTRS1978

Microprocessor controlled advanced battery management systems

The advanced battery management system described uses the capabilities of an on-board microprocessor to: (1) monitor the state of the battery on a cell by cell basis; (2) compute the state of charge of each cell; (3) protect each cell from reversal; (4) prevent overcharge on each individual cell; and (5) control dual rate reconditioning to zero volts per cell.

W. T. Payne↗
NASA NTRS1983

Full-charge indicator for battery chargers

A full-charge indicator for battery chargers, includes a transistor which is in a conductive state as long as charging current to the battery is not less than a level which indicates that the battery did not reach full charge. When the battery reaches full charge, a voltage drop in a resistor in the charging current path is not sufficient to maintain the transistor in a conducting state, and therefore it is switched off. When this occurs an LED is turned on, to indicate a full charge state of the battery. A photocoupler together with a photocoupler transistor are included. When the transistor is off, the photocoupler activates the photocoupler transistor to shunt out a resistor, thereby reducing the charging current to the battery to a float charging current and prevent the battery from being overcharged and damaged.

Cole, Steven W.↗
DOE OSTI2025

Probing Operando Electrochemical Strain Generation in α-NaFeO 2 Composite Cathodes during Cycling of Na-Ion Batteries

The transition metal oxide (TMO) cathodes in Na-ion batteries suffer from low-capacity retention. Chemo-mechanical instabilities lead to the deterioration of the electrochemical performance of TMO cathodes in Li-ion batteries. However, there is not much known about the chemo-mechanical instabilities in the TMO cathodes for Na-ion batteries. Understanding the governing forces behind the interplay between the electrochemical performance and mechanical stability in TMO cathodes is critical for the development of Na-ion batteries. Here, we synchronize the digital image correlation (DIC) technique with electrochemical analysis to capture the real-time deformation behavior of the α-NaFeO 2 cathodes during cycling. When the charge cutoff voltage is 3.6 V, the cathode experiences reversible deformations (except for the first cycle). There is negative strain (shrinkage) generation during Na extraction and positive strain (expansion) generation during the subsequent Na insertion. A detailed analysis of the potential-dependent strain rate evolution points out complicated phase transformations and nonequilibrium conditions in the α-NaFeO 2 cathodes during cycling. When the charge cutoff voltage was increased to 4.2 V, there was a rapid capacity loss and large plastic deformations in the α-NaFeO 2 cathodes. We provide an in-depth discussion about the possible mechanisms behind the chemo-mechanical instabilities in the α-NaFeO 2 . In conclusion, the correlation is critical to develop material-based strategies to mitigate instability mechanisms in TMO cathodes for Na-ion batteries.

Wable, Minal [University of Maryland Baltimore Cou↗
DOE OSTI2026

Phase diagram and spectroscopic signatures of a supersolid in the quantum ising magnet K 2 Co(SeO 3 ) 2

Supersolid phases are quantum-entangled states of matter exhibiting the dual characteristics of superfluidity and solidity. Theory predicts that hard-core bosons on a triangular lattice can form such phases at half filling and near complete filling. Leveraging an exact mapping between bosons and spin-$\frac{1}{2}$ degrees of freedom, here we show that these phases are realized in the triangular-lattice antiferromagnet K 2 Co(SeO 3 ) 2 . At zero field, neutron diffraction reveals the development of quasi-two-dimensional $\sqrt3$ x $\sqrt3$ magnetic order with Z 3 translational symmetry breaking (solidity), though with reduced amplitude indicating strong quantum fluctuations. These fluctuations manifest as equidistant bands of continuum neutron scattering, where the lowest-energy mode is gapless at K ($\frac{1}{3}$ $\frac{1}{3}$), consistent with broken U(1) spin rotational symmetry (superfluidity). For c-axis-oriented magnetic fields near saturation, we find a second phase consistent with a high-field supersolid. These two supersolids are separated by a pronounced 1/3 magnetization plateau phase that supports coherent spin waves, from which we determine the underlying spin Hamiltonian.

75 CONDENSED MATTER PHYSICS, SUPERCONDUCTIVITY AND↗
NASA NTRS1984

Performance of the Lester battery charger in electric vehicles

Tests are performed on an improved battery charger. The primary purpose of the testing is to develop test methodologies for battery charger evaluation. Tests are developed to characterize the charger in terms of its charge algorithm and to assess the effects of battery initial state of charge and temperature on charger and battery efficiency. Tests show this charger to be a considerable improvement in the state of the art for electric vehicle chargers.

Vivian, H. C.↗
DOE OSTI2024

First Principles Study of Aluminum Doped Polycrystalline Silicon as a Potential Anode Candidate in Li‐ion Batteries

Addressing sustainable energy storage remains crucial for transitioning to renewable sources. While Li‐ion batteries have made significant contributions, enhancing their capacity through alternative materials remains a key challenge. Micro‐sized silicon is a promising anode material due to its tenfold higher theoretical capacity compared to conventional graphite. However, its substantial volumetric expansion during cycling impedes practical application due to mechanical failure and rapid capacity fading. A novel approach is proposed to mitigate this issue by incorporating trace amounts of aluminum into the micro‐sized silicon electrode using ball milling. Density functional theory (DFT) is employed to establish a theoretical framework elucidating how grain boundary sliding, a key mechanism involved in preventing mechanical failure is facilitated by the presence of trace aluminum at grain boundaries. This, in turn, reduces stress accumulation within the material, reducing the likelihood of failure. To validate the theoretical predictions, capacity retention experiments are conducted on undoped and Al‐doped micro‐sized silicon samples. In conclusion, the results demonstrate significantly reduced capacity fading in the doped sample, corroborating the theoretical framework and showcasing the potential of aluminum doping for improved Li‐ion battery performance.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2025

Methods and recommendations for large-scale deflagration testing of battery energy storage system enclosures

UL Solutions produced this report as a summary of a test series executed at Sandia National Laboratories that they funded. This report was approved for release by UL Solutions in October 2025 and released in 2026 on their website at https://www.ul.com/insights/methods-and-recommendations-large-scale-deflagration-testing-battery-energy-storage-system.

Gaudet, Benjamin [UL Solutions] (ORCID:00090006419↗
DOE OSTI2008

Vehicle Technologies Program: Energy Storage R&D (2008 Annual Progress Report)

One of the primary objectives of the Energy Storage effort is the development of durable and affordable advanced batteries (and ultracapacitors) for use in a full range of vehicle applications, from start/stop to full-power HEVs, EVs, and PHEVs. The battery technology development activity spans three areas: system development of full battery systems; benchmark testing of emerging technologies in order to remain abreast of the latest industry developments; and Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) to fund early-stage R&D for small businesses/entrepreneurs.

25 ENERGY STORAGE↗
DOE OSTI2026

Bacterial Bioleaching and Biorecovery for Biomining Unconventional Rare Earth Element Feedstocks

Bacterial metabolic interactions with rare earth elements (REEs) can be harnessed for biomining unconventional feedstocks like abandoned coal-mine drainage (AMD). Pennsylvania has ~500 AMD passive remediation systems that can precipitate REE rich solids. REEs include yttrium and the lanthanide series that are used in modern energy and technology. Bacteria that metabolically interact with REEs can be used for biomining in an affordable efficient process that does not require hazardous chemical additives. Currently, the microbial metal mechanisms that contribute to REE biorelease and biorecovery are poorly understood. Our work shows acidogenic bacterial isolates (Bacillus mycoides JR07 and Bacillus pseudomycoides KB7) successfully bioleach a mixed REE solution from AMD solids by their organic acid production and biofilm formation. Further, our work shows the potential for bacterial lanthanide-dependent enzymes to recover lanthanides from a mixed REE solution; here we have bacterial isolate Methylobacterium sp. B3 that can recover soluble lanthanum. Whole genome sequencing of Methylobacterium sp. B3 predict lanthanide-dependent methanol dehydrogenase XoxF. Understanding the microbial metabolism and genes involved in the REE release and recovery is crucial to optimize the biomining of AMD solids. Our work addresses the growing need to develop novel REE mining methods from unconventional feedstocks.

biogeochemistry↗
DOE OSTI2026

An integrated in-situ coordination strategy enabling high-performance layered cathodes for sodium-ion batteries

O3-type layered transition metal oxide cathodes hold tremendous potential in sodium-ion batteries (SIBs) due to their low cost and high energy density. However, the structure instability associated with detrimental phase transitions and severe interface parasitic reactions exacerbate the material's electrochemical performance degradation. Herein, we develop an integrated in-situ coordination strategy via heteroatomic modulation inducing coherent epitaxial layer to collaboratively enhance the overall framework robustness from surface to bulk. The theoretical calculation and multiple in/ex-situ characterizations demonstrate the charge density around oxygen is redistributed, which promotes the electron localization, thus widening the NaO 2 lattice space and accelerating the Na + transport dynamics. Furthermore, the formed strengthened oxygen bond energy effectively distributes the long-range coordination of Mn 3+ O 6 octahedron, thereby alleviating Jahn-Teller distortion and local stress. Importantly, the in-situ formed conformal buffer layer dramatically relieves the adverse interface side reactions, facilitating the construction of robust cathode-electrolyte interface, which ameliorate the whole structure stability of designed materials. Consequently, the optimized NFMZ@NZO-1.0 exhibits the excellent cycling stability with 80.2% capacity retention after 300 cycles at 1C, and delivers a high discharge capacity of 107.1 mAh g −1 at 10C. In conclusion, this distinctive coupling strategy provides valuable insights for developing high-performance layered cathode materials in SIBs.

Coherent epitaxial layer↗