- Dates1 April 2023 to 31 March 2025
- SponsorThe Faraday Institution
- Funded£12.9m
- PartnersUniversity College London (Lead), University of Cambridge, Coventry University, University of Birmingham, Imperial College London, University of Nottingham, University of Oxford, University of Southampton, University of Surrey, Aerospace Technology Institute, National Physical Laboratory + 5 industry partners
Lithium-sulfur batteries have a number of potential advantages over existing lithium-ion battery technology. Availability of lithium-sulfur batteries will mean a lighter option for vehicles: important for electrification of short-haul aircraft and light goods vehicles in particular. Today’s typical lithium-ion batteries produce around 250 watt hours per kg of mass, compared with what is expected to be 400-600 watt hours per kg from lithium-sulfur. At this stage, researchers believe lithium-sulfur may also be a cheaper technology for industry and consumers.
The constituent elements of lithium-sulfur batteries mean less dependence on scarce minerals – the types of ‘conflict materials’ which often can only be sourced from countries where there are serious questions over human rights and employment conditions.
The LiSTAR research project aims to maximise the potential of the lithium-sulfur technology, including issues around energy density and lifetime of cells, exploring the use of the best performing materials.
Cranfield's researchers are looking at developing a sophisticated battery management system: providing accurate information on charge levels, and insights into how operation of the vehicle impacts on battery life. The work will also involve running simulations to model the behaviour of the battery in particular vehicle types.
