中国空间站成功开展锂电池在轨实验 助力下一代太空电池设计

Core Insights - The successful in-orbit experiment of lithium-ion batteries conducted on the Chinese space station aims to enhance the design of next-generation space batteries and improve the understanding of electrochemical processes in microgravity environments [1][2] Group 1: Project Overview - The "Lithium-ion Battery Space Application Research" project was recently launched aboard the Chinese space station, with astronauts from the Shenzhou 21 mission participating in the operations [1] - The project is expected to break through the cognitive bottleneck related to the coupling effects of gravitational and electric fields, thereby advancing the fundamental theory of electrochemistry [1] Group 2: Scientific Objectives - The primary goal of the project is to directly observe and analyze the impact of microgravity on key internal processes of lithium-ion batteries, providing a scientific basis for enhancing the efficiency of spacecraft energy systems [1] - Lithium-ion batteries are considered the "energy heart" of modern space missions due to their high energy density, long cycle life, and reliability [1] Group 3: Experimental Challenges and Innovations - Ground experiments are limited by the intertwining effects of gravity and electric fields, making it difficult to isolate the influence of gravity on battery processes [2] - The unique microgravity environment of space allows for a purer study of critical processes such as ion transport and insertion/extraction within the battery [2] - The experiment faced challenges due to significant differences in liquid behavior within the battery in microgravity, which could potentially lead to decreased performance and increased safety risks [2] Group 4: Expert Contributions - Zhang Hongzhang, as a payload expert, played a crucial role in conducting in-situ optical observation experiments of lithium-ion batteries in microgravity, ensuring precise execution and monitoring of the experiments [2] - His proactive involvement is considered essential for the project to achieve new phenomena, discoveries, and results [2]