DANBURY, Conn., 19 August 2005. Electro Energy Inc. today announced the receipt of a Small Business Innovative Research (SBIR) contract with the U.S. Navy.
The project focuses on the development of an electrochemical buoyancy device for underwater vehicles. The approach is based on the electrochemistry of metal-gas batteries, in which one electrode can reversibly produce or generate gas for precise buoyancy control.
"The design concept of this device is an outgrowth of our experience and the technology we have developed for our rechargeable Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries. In some applications the buoyancy control device utilizes battery power which is potentially compatible with other EEEI products," said Michael Reed, president and COO of EEEI.
"We are grateful for the support of the U.S. Navy to evaluate this concept. The anticipated success of this program would benefit both military and commercial factions. The absence of pumps, valves, and moving parts in the electrochemical buoyancy device as compared to existing buoyancy devices would minimize maintenance requirements and costs, and reduce acoustic signatures."
Electro Energy Inc., headquartered in Danbury, Conn., was founded in 1992 to develop, manufacture and commercialize high-powered, rechargeable bipolar nickel-metal hydride batteries for use in a wide range of applications. Its Colorado Springs operation supplies aerospace-grade high quality nickel cadmium batteries and components for satellites, aircraft and other specialty applications.
Electro Energy Inc. is developing high power lithium rechargeable batteries utilizing the company's proprietary design. In May, EEEI announced plans to acquire significant manufacturing assets near Gainesville, Fla., by the end of 2005 to accelerate commercialization of its battery technology. For more information, see www.electroenergyinc.com.
