The DOD is partnering with industry and academia on an initiative to advance the state of art in advanced battery development, testing, and manufacturing to improve battery performance at a lower weight, size, and cost point using domestic sources. After decades of engineering improvements, Li-ion technology has peaked at an energy density of roughly 260 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg) and 700 watt-hours per liter (Wh/l). The development of sulfide glass electrolyte technology can now enable the replacement of the carbon electrode used in Li-ion batteries with lithium metal, boosting the performance to 400 Wh/kg and 1200 Wh/lb. and leading to a 35% reduction in battery weight. This performance advantage has major implications for extending the range of electric vehicles in the US, as well as improving the performance of cell phones, laptops, and other consumer electronic devices.

This initiative will leverage new design analysis tools, development processes, and qualification and testing procedures to assess emerging ultra-light materials and advanced manufacturing techniques required to enhance battery performance and lower weight. Special emphasis will be placed on using innovative methods to melt raw materials in sealed quartz vessels producing ingots of highly ionically conductive electrolyte which can be processed in a unique draw tower to generate thin sheets of conductive sulfide glass. The proposed solution will result in a rechargeable ultra-light solid-state battery based on the use of thin ionically conductive sulfide glass bonded to a solid-state positive electrode that can last longer and require less maintenance.

If you feel your organization has the technical capabilities and would like to be considered for this project, please complete the form below and upload your organization’s technical capabilities statement.

Interested Submissions Due by 8/8/2023.

We encourage the participation of Disadvantaged Business Enterprises (DBEs), including Minority Business Enterprises (MBEs) and Women’s Business Enterprises (WBEs).