Inactive Total Small Business Set-Aside (FAR 19.5)

An existing microgrid that uses so called, ‘Supercapacitors,’ or, ‘Ultracapacitors,’ is to be upgraded. These capacitors have high energy storage capacities compared to traditional capacitors but thei... An existing microgrid that uses so called, ‘Supercapacitors,’ or, ‘Ultracapacitors,’ is to be upgraded. These capacitors have high energy storage capacities compared to traditional capacitors but their main advantage is they cycle life typically measured in millions compared to batteries’ thousands. The existing supercapacitors has proved the ability of the microgrid to operate but individual cells within the existing capacitors have begun to fail. Graphene based ultracapacitors are wanted to replace the existing system as they have lower internal resistance and an increase in energy density than the existing capacitors. The main aim of the continuation of this project is to evaluate the performance of these new generation of Ultracapacitors. The larger project aims at improving microgrids which are becoming widely used to improve energy resilience at bases as well as forward operating bases to decrease the amount of fuel required which in turn reduces the logistical chain required to operate these bases. Minimal Technical Requirements/Salient Characteristics: Technology: Capacitance (electrostatic not chemical) based energy storage. Graphene based cells. The performance of cells based on this technology is to be evaluated. Internal Cell balancing required. Ultracapacitor specifications: Capacitance: 177 F. (or higher) Rated Voltage: 50 V. (or higher) Energy Density: 4.0 Wh/kg Cycle life (@51V): 1,000,000 (or greater) DC ESR (Initial): 4.0mW (or less)