Scientists from the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) have tested an advanced lithium battery system in a drone with composite wings. This innovative system increased the drone's energy density to 400 watt-hours per kilogram, resulting in a notable performance enhancement of 20-40 percent during flight tests conducted in Changhai county, Dalian.
Breakthrough Development
The Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics was behind this impressive battery development. One of the remarkable features is its ability to function effectively across a wide range of temperatures, from -40°C to 60°C (-40°F to 140°F). The drone, which was designed by the Shenyang Institute of Automation, successfully executed all the essential maneuvers during a three-hour test flight, including takeoff, climbing, high-speed cruising, and landing.
Key Innovations
Professor Chen Zhongwei, who spearheaded the battery project, highlighted some major breakthroughs that contributed to this success. The team incorporated innovative high-nickel ternary cathode materials and refined silicon-carbon composite anodes to enhance the battery’s capacity. They also devised a unique ultra-low-temperature electrolyte that employs low-freezing-point solvents and additives to ensure that ions keep moving, even in freezing conditions.
Enhanced Efficiency
The battery features a new composite separator that handles heat much better and has a longer lifespan, along with an advanced multilayer system that aids in heat management and keeps everything compact. These enhancements have significantly improved the battery's efficiency and stability.
In summary, the successful testing of this high-energy-density battery system marks an important advancement in drone technology, particularly for unmanned aerial vehicles that must operate effectively in challenging environments.
Source: Link
