Could lithium-ion batteries be a game-changer in marine applications?

A new generation of energy storage technology is required, based on lithium-ion batteries (LIBs).42,43 Lithium-ion batteries could be a game-changer in marine applications, with the potential to be a primary source of power not just for submarines, but also unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and torpedoes.

What are lithium ion batteries used for?

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used in a wide variety of deep sea applications, for autonomous vehicles and offshore Oil+Gas, to supply sensors, or for energy storage systems. The highest power and energy density is essential, but also absolute reliability and safety, because failure would be expensive.

Could lithium-sulfur cells replace lithium-ion batteries in marine autonomous systems?

Lithium–sulfur (Li–S) cells have five times the theoretical maximum specific energy of lithium-ion. The increased specific energy and improved lower density of the cells mean that they could be an excellent replacement for the current lithium rechargeable cells used in marine autonomous systems.

Are solid-state batteries a good choice for marine applications?

Solid-state batteries are also under research for marine applications. According to the research study, It may offer up to 75% better specific energy of the best lithium-ion batteries and the safety impact might be even greater with the fire risk and the cooling requirement.

How is the battery power system connected to the underwater vehicle?

The battery power system is connected via the subsea connectors up to the programmable electronic load where the battery system would be discharged in accordance to a simulated load cycle of the underwater vehicle for realistic operational conditions. The experiment test plan for the battery power system can be tabulated in Table 5.

Why do Submarines need lead-acid batteries?

For over a century, lead-acid batteries have been the standard source of stored energy for underwater vehicles such as submarines. They are utilized to power the vehicle’s main propulsion, or as a stand-by battery. However, more is required of submarines – they must demonstrate increased endurance and cope with greater speed demands.