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StatusCompleted
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Status date2025-01-28
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Activity Code4F.137
The focus of our project was to research, develop, and test a passivation method specifically tailored for Li-ion battery cells to be integrated into small satellites and CubeSats. Our aim was to ensure compliance with the Space Debris Mitigation requirement for passivation, as outlined in the ECSS-U-AS-10C Rev.1 [2] and ISO 24113 6.2.2.3 [3] standards, without introducing any additional risk during normal satellite operations. It was essential for the passivation device to be compatible with commercially available cells commonly used in this type of mission and for satellites operating in both Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and Geostationary Orbit (GEO) applications.
The project was initiated with the primary objective of addressing the critical issue of space debris and facilitating the implementation of international regulations pertaining to this matter. To validate the efficacy of the proposed approach, realistic degraded battery cells were manufactured and successfully integrated with the prototype electronics. Through extensive testing and refinement, the device has now reached a stage where it is ready to be produced as a proto-flight model for a real demonstration mission.
Our research contributes to the broader effort of mitigating the risks associated with space debris. Furthermore, the successful development and implementation of an effective passivation method for Li-ion batteries in small satellites will enhance the overall safety and sustainability of satellite operations in the ever-expanding space environment.
The project was initiated with the primary objective of addressing the critical issue of space debris and facilitating the implementation of international regulations pertaining to this matter. To validate the efficacy of the proposed approach, realistic degraded battery cells were manufactured and successfully integrated with the prototype electronics. Through extensive testing and refinement, the device has now reached a stage where it is ready to be produced as a proto-flight model for a real demonstration mission.
The project aims to further refine and enhance the system, eventually transforming it into a commercially available solution accessible to all small satellite and CubeSat manufacturers. This commercial version will be known as EReBUS (European Reprogrammable Battery Unplugging System), representing a significant step forward in mitigating the risks associated with space debris and ensuring the safe operation and disposal of satellite batteries.
Reported in system architecture.
The device has been designed to seamlessly integrate into next-generation small satellites, prioritizing factors such as its compact form factor (PC/104), which ensures compatibility with most CubeSats, its lightweight construction, and its versatile electrical interface.
The incorporation of a reprogrammable microcontroller enables active control over all components of the board, facilitating the establishment of secure and well-defined initial conditions. This feature not only mitigates the risk of accidental satellite activation during ground operations or after the EOL phase but also allows for the reprogramming of the cut-off voltage to accommodate different types of battery cells. Several components, including microcontrollers, have been carefully selected for their radiation hardness to ensure high reliability in operation. The system has undergone extensive validation to ensure its capability to handle loads of up to 155 W (34 V or 8 A), guaranteeing the safe and efficient management of power requirements. Furthermore, the device employs an RS422 interface.
Five candidate cells were initially identified. Key evaluation criteria included energy density, capacity, cycling performance, operating temperature range, safety features, and cost. Based on this assessment, two cell types were ultimately chosen: "Cell A," a power cell representing LEO missions, and "Cell B," an energy cell representing MEO and GEO requirements.
Contract MLS list:
Progress (MS 1) - achieved
Progress (MS2) - achieved
Finale Settlement (MS3) - achieved
The project passed the Final Review and it’s officially closed.
