The two mainly used technologies for power storage systems in spacecrafts are compared: the mature Nickel-Hydrogen (NiH2) and the new Lithium-Ion (Lilon). A comparison of the power storage system relies on the cell design and active materials for NiH2 and Lilon. Besides the different performance characteristics, the cell chemistry demands different approaches for the entire battery design, structure and interface. As NiH2 is based upon a robust and stable chemistry, a simple battery design is sufficient. NiH2 is not only able to bear deep discharge conditions but additionally it is insensitive against reverse current. Furthermore it is insensitive against over-charge. Its energy principle bases upon the production of internal pressure, which requires stable container material causing higher volume and mass of the entire system. Today NiH2 is the system, where by far the most cycle life data and flight heritage are available. The Lilon technology is sensitive to overcharge and over-discharge conditions. Therefore a sophisticated battery management system is mandatory. It should include as a minimum protection monitoring versus over-voltage and under-voltage as well as charge control. For highest cycle life and life time expectations, we strongly recommend cell balancing. Due to lighter material and higher energy density, Lilon has lower mass and volume compared to the nickel based battery systems. As there are not yet enough in-orbit data available, LiIon should not be operated in LEO at DOD higher than 30% in order to meet the highest lifetime of the mission requirements.
Power storage for small satellites: comparison of NIH2 and LiIon batteries
Energiespeicher für kleine Satelliten: Vergleich von NiH2- und Lithiumionen-Batterien
2005
4 Seiten, 4 Bilder, 2 Tabellen, 1 Quelle
Conference paper
English
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