NANOMATERIALS FOR THERMAL BATTERY Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2012.1 Topic No.: N121-035 Topic Title: NANOMATERIALS FOR THERMAL BATTERY Proposal No.: N121-035-1347 Firm: Powdermet Inc. 24112 Rockwell Drive Euclid, Ohio 44117-1252 Contact: Brian Doud Phone: (216) 404-0053 Web Site: www.powdermetinc.com Abstract: This proposed Phase I SBIR program will produce safer, higher-rate, high energy density, thermal batteries through the development of improved nanocomposite anode materials. This development will increase the anode side of the thermal battery by replacing traditional lithium using a nano-lithium silicon. The program addresses high rate capacity by taking a proven high capacity material with poor rate capability (LiSi) and producing a nano-particle version. Benefits: Thermal batteries have always been associated with the defense applications. This chemistry has found extensive usage in missiles, rockets and torpedoes. The high temperatures required for this equipment operation is the primary reason thermal batteries are used and this chemistry can be easily provided in these operations. Thermal batteries have also found use in the Mars pathfinder exploration, where it was used to propel the parachute motors and other on-board rockets. Additionally, thermal batteries find applications in sonobuoys that are used in anti-submarine warfare. Right now, there is great demand for these sonobuoys from the United States Navy. Return