Novel Hybrid Carbon Nanotube Based Flywheel Energy Storage for Shipboard Pulse Load Operation Navy SBIR FY2015.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2015.2 Topic No.: N152-118 Topic Title: Novel Hybrid Carbon Nanotube Based Flywheel Energy Storage for Shipboard Pulse Load Operation Proposal No.: N152-118-0505 Firm: Physics, Materials, and Applied Mathematics Resear 3833 South Texas Ave Suite 102 Bryan, Texas 77802 Contact: Nathan Tichenor Phone: (979) 485-9232 Web Site: http://www.physics-math.com Abstract: The introduction and utilization of modern weapon systems on shipboard platforms demands new high energy storage capacity devices with rapid charge/discharge capacities. Flywheel-based systems are particularly attractive for this purpose due to their high fatigue life, reliability, high efficiency and rapid rate of discharge. However, one of the main factors limiting the energy storage capacity of a flywheel is the mechanical stresses developed in the flywheel rotor due to centrifugal forces and inertia effects, which can lead to structural failure. Therefore, introducing materials to flywheels with high specific strength, such as carbon fiber reinforced composites and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), will enable higher tip velocities and thus higher energy storage capacity. For example, by utilizing the increased strength of CNTs, a ~12� improvement in energy density is possible over state-of-the-art graphite composite flywheels. To address the solicited DoD need for advanced shipboard energy storage solutions, PM&AM Research, in collaboration with Texas A&M University, propose to develop a novel hybrid CNT-based flywheel energy storage system for pulse power applications. This innovative approach will improve energy storage capabilities beyond state-of-the-art systems. Through design optimization, the hybrid flywheel will exhibit improved strength, safety, and energy-storage by cost-effectively achieving higher speeds. Benefits: There are numerous applications for this novel hybrid CNT integration approach that will be explored and developed during the program. Vehicular energy storage applications, including military (shipboard, ground based, and air) and commercial (buses, heavy equipment, trains), are highly desirable to improve emissions and reduce fuel/operating costs. Safe and robust fixed-site energy storage, coupled with renewable energies, are a much needed technology gap that can benefit from our high-performance hybrid CNT technology. Return