Project Brief

NIST Measurement Science and Engineering Research Grants

APPLICATION OF NEUTRON METROLOGY METHODS TO ELECTROCHEMICAL ENERGY SYSTEMS

Apply neutron detectors that can view the inner workings of fuel cells with 10 times improved spatial resolution over previous efforts, and assess mechanisms for degradation of lithium-based battery capacity and power.

RECIPIENT: General Motors, LLC, Honeoye Falls, NY

Project duration: 3 Years
Total NIST Funding: $1,255,833

Metrology methods based on neutron beam attenuation are well-suited to diagnostic applications in a variety of practical electrochemical energy systems. This project will apply neutron detectors with spatial resolution as fine as 10 micrometers to resolve water gradients normal to the membrane electrode assembly (MEA) in fuel cells, a 10-fold improvement in resolution over prior efforts. This project will also apply neutron detectors to study lithium transport in batteries to assess mechanisms for degradation of battery capacity and power. Development of new metrology methods and applications for interrogation of water in fuel cells and lithium in batteries will enable improved performance, durability, and cost of these key electrochemical energy technologies.

Public contact (for project information):

Scott Fosgard, 313-665-3142
scott.fosgard@gm.com

NIST Program Office Contact:

Jason Boehm, 301-975-8678
Jason.boehm@nist.gov