Current and Emerging Technology for Powering Small Satellites with Secondary Cells and Batteries

Gates Aerospace Batteries [GAB] is currently participating in the full range of small and large satellites with a variety of products from three electrochemical technologies of NiCd, NiMH and NiHz In this presentation we discuss the role of small capacity cells [nominally 17 A-H and less] from those three electrochemical technologies. NiCd is of course the oldest technology. GAB's Survivability Database contains a total of 117 spacecraft with approximately 644 Total Mission Years of successful NiCd performance without a recorded failure. We continue to update this technology with improved plate designs and non-nylon separators to improve both performance and survivability. Nickel-metal hydride [NiMH] is one emerging technology that appears amenable for powering small spacecraft. In this technology, we literally replace the cadmium or negative electrode from NiCd technology with the metal-hydride electrode to form this new electrochemical couple. NiMH technology provides a reduction in both weight and volume as compared to NiCd technology. NiHz Planar Technology is another emerging technology that appears amenable for powering small spacecraft. In this technology, GAB has combined the superior capability of the nickel-hydrogen electrochemistry with the simplicity and design heritage of the mature NiCd product line. Again, GAB's success with this technology is based upon the expertise and heritage of the NiCd and NiHz programs.