Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre(VSSC), part of ISRO, has qualified 10 Ah-silicon graphite anode-based high energy density li-ion cells. These cells present a promising low-weight and low-cost alternative to current cells in use.
The successful flight demonstration of these cells took place on the POEM-3 platform of PSLV-C58, where they powered a resistive load.
Differentiating itself from conventional Li-ion cells that use pure graphite as an anode material, this new cell utilizes a SI-graphite composite. This innovation allows for a higher accomodation of Lithium ions per unit mass of anode material, utlimately enhancing the energy density of the cell.
Further, the cell incorporates cost-effective hardware and a crimped sealing-based design, significantly reducing both hardware and fabrication costs,
VSSC followed a meticulous approach of subjecting new systems to rigorous qualifications and flight demonstration as piggyback payloads before integration into operational vehicles and missions. The successful POEM experiment thus, validated the cells capablity to withstand and perform in the harsh space environment.
ISRO further affirmed "Based on the confidence gained through this performance, these cells are poised to be used in upcoming operational missions where 35-40% battery mass saving is expected. The system find application both in space and ground use"
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