Multifunctional Energy Storage Composites for SHM Distributed Sensor Networks

SHM-based structures with embedded sensors and hardware have posed a great demand in distributed, in-situ power sources. This paper introduces the novel Multifunctional-Energy-Storage Composites (MES Composites) which highlights a unique integration technique for embedding lithium-ion battery materials in structural carbon-fiber-reinforced-polymers (CFRP). Unlike standard lithium-ion pouch cells, the MES Composites maximizes material utilization by using CFRP facesheets to house the electrochemistry. Through-thickness polymer reinforcements are implemented to allow load transfer between the two facesheets, analogous to the sandwich structure construction. A feasibility study and preliminary characterization have been completed and have shown that the same electrochemical performance as a standard Li-ion cell could be maintained, while achieving high bending rigidity.