Cooperation on Lithium-ion Cell/Battery Fractional Thermal Runaway Calorimetry (FTRC)

NASA seeks to continue efforts to advance an understanding of the relationship between Lithium ion (Li-ion) cell design and thermal runaway (TR) phenomena, which can lead to overheating and fire. NASA is conducting research aimed at calorimetrically quantifying the heat response of Li-ion cells during TR and advancing design features, simulation and test methods for achieving safe Li-ion cell and battery pack designs. Specifically, NASA is interested in test methods which facilitate the discernment of the fraction of thermal runaway energy released through the cell casing vs. through the hot ejecta material. The purpose here is to collaborate with other entities interested in the same information, with access to commercially available Li-ion cells, and/or with access to similar test apparatus that support the discernment of the aforementioned energy fractions. Technology: Numerous calorimetric techniques exist today (e.g. ARC, bomb calorimetry, slug calorimetry, cone calorimetry, et...); however, these methods do not readily facilitate the discernment of the thermal runaway energy fractions. Therefore it is appropriate to say that the necessary technology does not currently exist in the public domain. R&D Status: NASA JSC developed a new fractional thermal runaway calorimeter capable of supporting the discernment of the thermal runaway energy fractions for 18650-format Li-ion cells; the device is customizable to support other cell types. This instrument is currently fully operational. It has been used over 100 times on various cell designs with turnaround time between tests as quick as 90 minutes. The instrument is portable and has been used at JSC and at other facilities. Intellectual Property (IP): This Partner relationship may produce new IP that could be jointly owned by NASA and the partner or may become the property of the partner. To respond to this announcement, please use the Statement of Interest Form, https://nasajsc.secure.force.com/StatementofInterest . To view all Co-Development and Partnering Opportunities with the NASA Johnson Space Center please visit our website, https://www.nasa.gov/centers/johnson/partnerships/JSC-Partnership-Gateway .