Evaluation of high-speed rotation properties of LiCl-KCl molten salt with MgO binder

Abstract

Thermal batteries have high structural stability, reliability, and excellent long-term storage capabilities. Therefore, they are widely used as military power sources, such as deterioration induction weapons, guided missiles, and torpedoes. Commonly, a thermal battery is mounted on a warhead to supply power. The high-speed rotational force experienced by the thermal battery on the warhead generates a strong centrifugal force. Therefore, electrolyte leakage (liquid form) may occur. Here, we devised new equipment to check whether the molten electrolyte in a thermal battery was damaged or leaking when the warhead was rotated at high speeds within the operating temperature of the thermal battery. In addition, finite element analysis (FEA) simulations were performed to predict the types of experimental factors that influence the electrolyte profile and how much centrifugal force induces tensile stress in a sample.