Sandia National Laboratories has developed HTSS10V, a solid-state, fluoride-based battery that is safer than traditional batteries in high-temperature applications such as oil, gas, and geothermal drilling. HTSS10V was developed in conjunction with the High Power Battery Systems Company in Nizhny Novgorod Russia and General Atomics.
HTSS10V Solid-state fluoride ion batteries have nearly the same energy density of lithium sulfuryl batteries while being inherently safe. The battery consists of nontoxic fluoride, and all three battery components of the HTSS10V -- anode, cathode, and ionic conductor -- are solid, making it the best and safest choice for high-temperature activities such as oil and gas drilling, currently its primary application. Traditional lithium batteries are at risk of exploding or leaking chemicals under high-temperature uses. Solid-state battery technology offers the largest temperature range -- room temperature to 500 degrees Celsius -- of any battery technology.
Other advantages of solid-state batteries include:
- The ability to be flown on commercial aircraft, while lithium sulfuryl chloride batteries can only be transported by ground and must be stored in explosive containers when on a drill rig.
- Longer shelf life and greater reliability in emergency situations, giving them advantages for battery backup or life support systems during a fire or other emergencies.
Researchers are currently working on a rechargeable version for laptop computers.
Limited production of the batteries began in 2005 at Russia's VNIIEF Institute. Under a joint program with Sandia and General Atomics, the batteries will be produced in Sarov, Russia, and in San Diego, Calif., for high-end oil and gas drilling uses.