Energy Storage Structural Composites: a Review

Abstract

This study demonstrates the construction of a multifunctional composite structure capable of energy storage in addition to load bearing. These structures were assembled and integrated within the confines of a multifunctional structural composite in order to save weight and space. Carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) composites were laminated with energy storage all-solid-state thin-film lithium cells. The processes of physically embedding all-solid-state thin-film lithium energy cells into carbon fiber reinforced plastics (CFRPs) and the approaches used are reviewed. The effects of uniaxial tensile loading on the embedded structure are investigated. The mechanical, electrical, and physical aspects of energy harvesting and storage devices incorporated into composite structures are discussed. Embedding all-solid-state thin-film lithium energy cells into CFRPs did not significantly alter the CFRP mechanical properties (yield strength and Young's modulus). The CFRP embedded energy cells performed at baseline charge/discharge levels up to a loading of about 50% of the ultimate CFRP uniaxial tensile rupture loading.