Amprius Technologies, a US maker of ultra-high energy density lithium-ion batteries, said an independent third-party testing laboratory validated its 390Wh/kg polymer electrolyte cell with a nail penetration test.
The test determines the feasibility of a specific product in combat scenarios. Cells tested must not burn or explode, and the external temperature of each test must not be greater than 170 degrees Celsius (338 degrees Fahrenheit) when penetrated by sharp objects.
Amprius’ said its polymer electrolyte prevents the penetrating nail from creating a low resistance short circuit. There was a minimal increase in the cell temperature after penetration and only a small decrease in cell voltage. After nail penetration the cell was still functioning and providing power.
Passing the nail penetration test (section 4.7.4.4. of the MIL-PRF-32383 military performance specification) will allow Amprius the opportunity to provide a significant energy density performance increase of nearly 100%, the company said. This doubles the run-time for all mobile-powered devices without increasing the overall weight.
Amprius is building and testing cells for wearable battery use by the US Army.
