Electric batteries as we know them can power cars, as well as giant drones and flying taxis, but we are still far from seeing 100% electric planes flying. An airplane would need batteries of several tons to provide the energy necessary for a flight of several hundred kilometers. Too heavy.
The fact is that current electric batteries offer insufficient energy density to power airplanes. Especially since these require significant amounts of energy to take off.
This is why researchers are trying to develop new kinds of electric batteries. The British company Oxis Energy has developed Lithium Sulfide batteries to replace Li-Ion batteries.
This type of battery has several advantages. First of all, they would be able to withstand the energy density necessary for electric planes while maintaining its properties over time. They would also be lighter and safer. Lithium Sulfide batteries can store more than double the energy (500-600 Wh / kg) than Li-Ion batteries (100-260 Wh / kg).
Many parameters still need to be mastered
Development and Integration Manager at Oxis, Mark Crittenden, explained in an article published in the journal IEEE Spectrum that Li-S battery discharge cycle causes more chemical reactions than Li-Ion batteries. They were also more complex. It would therefore be necessary to manage to control its reactions and to optimize them during the battery charging and discharging phases in order to optimize their lifespan. Several protections and controls should also be put in place to ensure that the batteries are functioning properly.
The British firm claims to have succeeded in producing a promising Li-S battery. It will also develop two production sites in Scotland and Brazil. The company is targeting the year 2023 for the start of production of its Lithium Sulfide batteries.
However, these batteries will have to be checked and certified in order to be integrated into various flying machines. They could integrate vertical take-off electric taxis (VTOLs), devices in development, but also airliners. However, we will have to wait several more years before seeing 100% electric planes in the sky. The price of these batteries should indeed be significant and the adoption of this technology will not happen overnight.
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