Review of Commercial Cells for Space Applications

Abstract

Advances in Li-ion technology mean that manufacturers currently produce cells that have higher energy densities, higher rate capabilities, and longer quoted cycle lives than the currently qualified ABSL space cells. It is therefore possible that cells are available that could enable a lower mass/volume solution for a given application. ABSL carry out regular reviews of commercial off the shelf (COTS) cells, to determine whether any available cells are suitable for space applications, and offer superior performance to those currently qualified. This paper describes the process that is followed to review and test commercial cells.