Why do batteries fail in deep space? Researchers are exploring new battery chemistries that could keep devices running in extreme cold.
Researchers at Texas A&M University are investigating alternative battery chemistries designed to operate in environments where conventional lithium ion batteries struggle. The work, presented at the U.S. Department of Energy’s Catalyzing Energy Education and Excellence Symposium, focuses on energy storage systems capable of maintaining performance in extreme cold.
The research presents computational research exploring battery materials for aerospace applications. Traditional lithium ion batteries experience significant performance losses when temperatures fall below freezing because the electrochemical reactions that store and release energy slow dramatically. In deep space environments, these conditions can severely limit battery operation.
The research examines both organic and inorganic energy storage systems to identify chemistries better suited for harsh thermal conditions. A key area of interest is polymeric batteries, which use synthetic polymer based materials instead of conventional battery components. These materials are expected to remain functional at temperatures as low as minus 50 degrees Celsius.
The team’s computational models help evaluate how different battery designs perform under extreme conditions before physical prototypes are developed. This approach allows researchers to identify promising materials and understand their strengths and limitations more efficiently.
Beyond spacecraft and planetary exploration, the technology could benefit electric vehicles, defence systems and industrial equipment operating in cold climates. Reliable low temperature energy storage remains a major challenge across multiple industries where battery performance directly affects system operation and safety.
Jaybelle Pranada, PhD student at Texas A&M University, says, “There’s a lot more that goes into energy than I initially realized. You have to consider everything from policy and safety to reliability, cost and deployment. Seeing how all those pieces connect gave me a broader perspective on how complex energy challenges really are.”
