Mechanical Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 4-14-2021

Abstract

The feasibility of a new thermal battery separator design utilizing a structural machined MACOR® ceramic is explored. The cylindrical ceramic “separator ring” maintains separation of cell electrodes while containing a LiCl-KCl molten salt electrolyte. Finite element analysis (FEA) results show the separator ring can withstand mechanical and thermal loading conditions representative of a thermal battery environment. Electrical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) was used to characterize impedance mechanisms. EIS data was also used to calculate and show conductivities of the experimental separators are comparable to a traditional pellet. Although discharge testing resulted in high current-pulse resistivities and low delivered capacity, the work done in this study proves the separator ring concept as a viable option for future thermal battery development.

Degree Name

Mechanical Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Mechanical Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Nathan Jackson

Second Committee Member

Yu-Lin Shen

Third Committee Member

Eric Allcorn

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

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