Battery energy storage container and method of use

Abstract

This disclosure relates to a battery energy storage container. The energy storage container has a cylindrical housing and a pair of end caps provided at opposing ends of the cylindrical housing. A diaphragm is positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing. In one variant, the energy storage container is configured to be installed below the ground surface for geological thermal management of the energy storage container. Embodiments of the present invention further disclose various types of electrode retainers. The energy storage container is configured for use in electrochemical battery cells, lithium-ion batteries, intercalation batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, fuel cells, reversible fuel cells, and capacitors.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Cross - reference to Related Applications This application claims the priority and benefit of Casey's U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 417,286, entitled "Pressurized Energy Storage Container and Method of Use," filed on October 18, 2022.

[0002] Field of Disclosure The present invention relates to the field of energy storage, and more particularly, the present invention relates to energy storage containers for use in batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells.

Background Art

[0003] Background of the Invention Climate change, along with the increasing population / electricity consumption in densely populated urban and suburban areas, presents an interrelated problem with its negative impact on the power grid. On hot summer days, when the grid becomes overloaded, large sags in power line conductors can occur up to a critical point. Once the conductor reaches this critical point, it can ground against trees, structures, and even terrain, potentially causing arc discharges. The infamous 2003 Northeast power outage and the 2017 Thomas Forest Fire in California resulted in immense environmental damage, loss of life, loss of service, and enormous personal and business losses. Under normal conditions, such as hot days with high electrical loads, Independent Service Operators (ISOs) proactively monitor sag levels and preemptively shut down services to prevent arc discharges, power outages, and fires. Furthermore, in aging grids, power lines under reasonable / high loads can arc across the insulation against power line support structures. In the best-case scenario, the ISO would suffer significant power losses, and in the worst-case scenario, the insulator or conductor would completely fail, resulting in a blackout or fire. Even as of 2005, it was possible to estimate that the transition from hydrocarbon fuels to the electrification of transport and grids would be a difficult path for the national power grid. Methods for manufacturing large, safe, and low-cost battery cells could have a significant impact on further electrification of the grid using renewable energy, reducing peak loads and mitigating the reliance on fossil fuels. [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0004] Current battery improvements focus on chemicals that enhance the energy density, cycle life, safety, and other performance indicators of 18650 / 4680 cells, pouches, or prism cells. However, little research has been done on container innovation. Currently, small battery solutions are being employed to solve large-scale, long-term energy storage problems. These are not suitable for applications that meet the requirements of large-scale, long-term energy storage systems.

[0005] Since 2005, a drastic global paradigm shift toward electrifying everything and decarbonizing the grid (i.e., Al Gore's Inconvenient Truth and the 2015 Paris Agreement) has created a market need for long-term energy storage solutions.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 10,608,284 discloses compressed gas electrolytes as liquefied gas electrolytes. However, the disclosed technology does not provide accompanying hardware solutions for putting those inventions into practice.

[0007] Existing BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems) solutions related to long-term energy storage are ineffective, complex to use, difficult to manufacture, expensive, and pose certain safety concerns, including thermal runaway and fire. An effective and efficient solution is needed to address these issues through long-term energy storage using small, mobile cell energy storage containers. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] overview The present invention provides a battery energy storage container comprising: a cylindrical housing configured to enclose electrodes and store an electrolyte at a pressure higher than ambient pressure or lower than ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other; a pair of end caps provided at the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, the pair of end caps configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps including a pressure relief valve; and a diaphragm positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding ends of the cylindrical housing.

[0009] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from two opposing ends of a cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

[0010] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce a fluid or gas into the corresponding end cap.

[0011] In one embodiment, the energy storage container is configured to be installed below the ground surface for geological thermal management of the energy storage container.

[0012] In one embodiment, the energy storage container is configured for use with electrochemical batteries, lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries, intercalation batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, fuel cells, reversible fuel cells, and capacitors.

[0013] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of a cylindrical housing.

[0014] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

[0015] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressure of the pressure relief valve of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is measurably the same.

[0016] Embodiments of the present invention further disclose an overpressure failsafe mechanism for a container, comprising: a pressure relief valve located in the container; and an envelope connected downstream of the pressure relief valve, configured to be filled with the contents of the container, wherein the mechanism is configured to operate automatically in either a first or second mode depending on the pressure of the contents of the container, wherein in the first mode the pressure relief valve releases at least a portion of the contents of the container into the envelope; and in the subsequent second mode the envelope meters and releases at least a portion of the contents of the container into the atmosphere, and the second mode is activated only if the pressure of the contents released into the envelope after the first mode has been activated exceeds a third set pressure.

[0017] In one embodiment, the overpressure fail-safe mechanism is automatically activated only when the pressure of the contents of the container exceeds a second set pressure.

[0018] In one embodiment, the envelope further includes a pressure relief valve configured to measure and release at least a portion of the contents of the container into the atmosphere when the pressure of the contents released into the envelope exceeds a third set pressure.

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention disclose an electrode retainer, which includes an inner sliding fit retaining element that can be sealed or includes a plurality of corrugation holes enabling electrolyte circulation, an outer sliding fit retaining element including a plurality of corrugation holes enabling electrolyte circulation, and an internal cavity defined between the inner sliding fit retaining element and the outer sliding fit retaining element to support the installation of at least one electrode.

[0020] In one embodiment, at least one electrode separator is disposed between at least one pair of electrodes.

[0021] In one embodiment, at least one pair of electrodes is selected from the group consisting of jelly roll (commercially available cylindrical cells), vertical thin film electrodes (pouch or prismatic), wafer electrodes, and disk-shaped electrodes.

[0022] In one embodiment, the electrodes selected from at least one pair of electrodes are arranged parallel to each other.

[0023] Embodiments of the present invention disclose an electrode retainer, which includes a plurality of tubes arranged substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other, a cathode disposed in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes, an anode disposed in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes, and at least one fluid flow disposed in a space formed between the plurality of tubes, and the fluid includes at least one of a coolant and / or an electrolyte.

[0024] In one embodiment, the plurality of tubes are interconnected to form a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0025] In one embodiment, the cathode and / or the anode are formed in a shape consisting of a square tube, a cylindrical rod, a hexagonal shaft, a rectangular pipe, and an elliptical pipe.

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention are battery energy storage containers, which are cylindrical housings configured to enclose electrodes and store electrolytes at a pressure higher or lower than the ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other, and a pair of end caps provided at the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, the pair of end caps being configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, and each end cap selected from the pair of end caps including a pressure relief valve, and diaphragms positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing, and further disclose a battery energy storage container configured such that the energy storage container is installed underground for geological thermal management of the energy storage container.

[0027] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from the two opposing ends of the cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

[0028] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce fluid or gas into the corresponding end cap.

[0029] In one embodiment, the energy storage container is configured to be installed underground for geological thermal management of the energy storage container.

[0030] In one embodiment, the energy storage container is configured for use in metal-air batteries, flow batteries, fuel cells, reversible fuel cells, and capacitors.

[0031] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing.

[0032] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

[0033] In one embodiment, each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressure of the pressure relief valve of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is measurably the same.

[0034] This hardware container invention is not limited to, but can be used in conjunction with a wide range of energy storage systems, including lithium-ion batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, capacitors, supercapacitors, and fuel cells, and is not limited to, battery chemicals. The invention involves applying pressure or vacuum to a gas or liquid, resulting in improvements to many fundamental scientific principles that will enhance the efficiency and performance of the battery.

[0035] Chemical-free battery, capacitor, or fuel cell containers for electrochemical energy storage and conversion include a container or housing for arranging battery chemical elements (cathode, anode, electrolyte) at pressures greater than or less than atmospheric pressure. Generally referred to as energy storage containers, these energy storage containers offer system interoperability with, but not limited to, other common cathode / anode batteries, capacitors, supercapacitors, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, and fuel cells. The non-ambient pressure (positive or negative pressure) inside the energy storage container provides a way to modulate thermodynamic principles, benefiting numerous fundamental scientific laws and creating more efficient, larger, and longer-lasting batteries. Containers are cylinders, vessels, or any acceptable efficient shape for maintaining positive or vacuum, have end caps for retaining positive and / or vacuum, and are made from metal, plastic, composite, or other materials. Energy storage containers can be single-walled or double-walled containers. Energy storage containers are also expected to be used to hold battery chemistry elements at atmospheric pressure (as well as pressure or vacuum), provided that the size, shape, and static load of the container are useful for housing large battery chemistry elements suitable for efficient long-term electrochemical storage. The end caps and membranes of the energy storage containers are designed to hold battery chemistry elements of large batteries at ambient and non-ambient pressures. Energy storage containers also include, or hold, electrodes and / or electrode retainers, separators, and current collectors (not shown) perpendicular to the energy storage container (hamburger style) and / or longitudinally (hot dog style). The electrode retainers are designed to be interoperable with any battery chemistry element having replaceable battery elements, thereby extending the lifespan of the energy storage container and also allowing for the installation of future battery chemistry elements.The energy storage container has overheat and overpressure protection for thermal runaway protection, mitigation, and containment, including (but not limited to) 1) the shape of the cylindrical housing and end cap, 2) active / passive thermal management mechanisms, 3) primary expansion region and pressure relief of its cavity, 4) secondary expansion region and pressure relief of its cavity, and 5) tertiary fail-safe mechanism and retaining envelope of the main cylinder. Overpressure and overvacuum fail-safe protection safely contains the battery chemical elements or hot gases from being released into the atmosphere, vehicle, structure, or internal compartment, mitigating or containing thermal runaway events. The non-ambient nature of the energy storage container allows for an internal environment optimized for chemical reactions at various ambient pressures and temperatures experienced in Earth, space, and other planetary environments. The design features of the container, electrode retainer, and diaphragm (membrane) allow for expansion and contraction of the cathode and anode materials at different charge states and temperatures. The primary and secondary pressure relief mechanisms coupled to the diaphragm (membrane) have the ability to self-regulate the expansion of the thermal and charge states of the electrodes, providing a clear solution to the mechanical clamping pressure on the cell stack while enabling a stable internal battery chemical environment. The vertical retainer can also be filled with electrode material to the desired level, after which the diaphragm (membrane) and end cap are fixed / clamped in the appropriate position, thus providing a predetermined retainer clamping force when installing the retainer within the main cylinder.

[0036] Additional features include secure interoperability with virtually all battery chemicals or battery systems, including, but not limited to, common thin-film NMC and LFP batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, and fuel cells, enabling affordable, large-scale, long-term storage that will facilitate the decarbonization of power grids. The larger versions provide acceptable digital inertia and immediate grid response time through measures to address associated inverter, transmission, and distribution shortages. This, in turn, enhances grid capacity and resilience through existing and anticipated future loads, safe operation, thermal runaway mitigation, shut-off capabilities, and pressure control capabilities through chemical retention. This enables customers to monetize and profit from energy storage, sales, and arbitrage. Customers can design battery chemical elements assuming that electrode materials will be reused. Since the main cylinder and retainer are reusable, the energy storage container assembly will not lag behind when new battery chemistry elements and systems are created, and because the battery chemistry is interchangeable, the lifecycle of the energy storage container assembly will be extended, and future [large] batteries will be classified / typed by atmospheric chemistry and non-atmospheric (pressurized) chemistry, and recycling of battery chemistry elements, energy storage containers, and electrode retainers after the end of their lifespan will be possible, allowing them to be used as a safe development testbed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0037] Brief explanation of the drawing [Figure 1] A partially exploded view of an energy storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown. [Figure 2] Various perspective views of the container in different mounting configurations are shown. [Figure 3] Figure 1 illustrates an overpressure failsafe mechanism for an energy storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4]An energy storage container according to one embodiment of the present invention is illustrated, and for simplification and ease of understanding, a pair of end caps are shown removed from the cylindrical housing of the energy storage container in Figure 1. [Figure 5] The diagram illustrates an energy storage container, showing a pair of end caps applying clamping pressure towards a cylindrical housing. [Figure 6] Figure 1 illustrates exemplary techniques / methods for seasonal / daily pressure or vacuum regulation of the energy storage container. [Figure 7] Figure 1 illustrates the electrode retainer of the energy storage container according to the first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] An electrode retainer for the energy storage container shown in Figure 1, according to a second embodiment of the present invention, is shown. [Figure 9] Figure 1 illustrates a configuration of the energy storage container without a retainer, according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] Figure 1 shows various diagrams of metal-air batteries utilizing the energy storage container. [Figure 11] Various diagrams of flow batteries utilizing the energy storage container shown in Figure 1 are presented. [Figure 12] Figure 1 shows various diagrams of capacitor and supercapacitor stacks utilizing the energy storage container. [Figure 13] Figure 1 shows various diagrams of fuel cell containers that utilize the energy storage container. [Figure 14] Figure 1 shows various diagrams of a reversible fuel cell utilizing an energy storage container. [Figure 15] Figure 8 illustrates a modified form of the electrode retainer according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0038] Detailed description of the embodiment Herein, the present invention will be described more fully with reference to the accompanying drawings illustrating embodiments of the invention. However, the present invention can be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, these embodiments are provided so as to ensure that this disclosure is thorough and complete and to fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0039] When an element is referred to as being "on top of" another element, it will be understood that it may exist directly on top of the other element, or there may be an intervening element between them. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any combination of one or more of the related enumerated items.

[0040] The terms "first," "second," "third," etc., may be used herein to describe various elements, components, areas, layers, and / or divisions, but it will be understood that these elements, components, areas, layers, and / or divisions are not limited by these terms. These terms are used solely to distinguish one element, component, area, layer, and / or division from another element, component, area, layer, and / or division.

[0041] It should be understood that the elements, components, areas, layers, and divisions depicted in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0042] The technical terms used herein are for the sole purpose of describing specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. Where used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural form unless otherwise explicitly stated in the context. Where used herein, the terms "comprises" and / or "comprising" or "includes" and / or "including" indicate the presence of the described features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not exclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0043] Furthermore, relative terms such as “lower” or “bottom,” “upper” or “top,” “left” or “right,” “above” or “below,” and “front” or “rear” may be used herein to describe the relationship of one element shown in the drawings to another. It will be understood that relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device, in addition to the orientation depicted in the drawings.

[0044] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by those skilled in the art in the field to which the invention pertains. It will be further understood that terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having meanings consistent with their meanings in the relevant technical field and in the context of this disclosure, and should not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly defined herein.

[0045] Illustrative embodiments of the present invention are described herein in relation to idealized embodiments of the invention. Therefore, variations from the illustrated shapes should be expected, for example, as a result of manufacturing techniques and / or tolerances. Numbers, ratios, percentages, and other values ​​may include ±5%, ±10%, ±25%, ±50%, ±75%, ±100%, ±200%, ±500%, or other ranges that do not impair the spirit of the invention. The terms “about,” “approximately,” or “substantially” may include values ​​known to those skilled in the art. Where not known in the art, these terms may be considered to be a range of up to ±5%, ±10% of the disclosed variable, or a range of other values ​​higher than these ranges generally accepted by those skilled in the art. Accordingly, embodiments of the present invention should not be construed as being limited to the region of specific shapes illustrated herein, but rather as including, for example, deviations in shape resulting from manufacturing. The present invention, as illustrated herein, can be adequately practiced even without elements not specifically disclosed herein. All patent documents, patent application documents, and non-patent documents cited throughout this application are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0046] Here, we will explain the energy storage container and its usage method, referring to the attached diagrams, specifically Figures 1 to 15.

[0047] First, refer to Figure 1, which shows a partial exploded view of an energy storage container 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The energy storage container 100 includes a cylindrical housing 110, a pair of end caps 120, and at least one electrode retainer 130 (optional), which will be described in more detail below. The pair of end caps 120 are useful for primary and secondary pressure control (formed for primary and secondary pressure control), with one end cap 120 being useful for primary pressure control (formed for primary pressure control) and the other end cap 120 being useful for secondary pressure control (formed for secondary pressure control), which will be described in more detail below. In other words, one end cap 120 is useful for forming a primary expansion region (such as a chamber, in one example), and the other end cap 120 is useful for forming a secondary expansion region (formed for secondary expansion), which will be described in more detail below. Furthermore, the energy storage container 100 may also include various safety elements (not shown) and a thermal management system (not shown).

[0048] Referring to Figure 1, the cylindrical housing 110 is configured to enclose electrodes 140 and store an electrolyte (not shown) at a pressure higher than the ambient pressure (positive pressure) or lower than the ambient pressure (vacuum). The cylindrical housing 110 includes two opposing ends 112 spaced apart from each other and separated by the entire length of the cylindrical housing 110. Each end 112 selected from the two opposing ends 112 of the cylindrical housing 110 includes a flange 114. The cylindrical housing 110 is an essential structure useful for creating a container assembly 100 (also called the “energy storage container 100”), and together with a pair of end caps 120, it can house various battery chemicals to form a closed container, thereby allowing positive or negative pressure (vacuum), i.e., fluid pressure rather than clamp pressure, to be applied to the energy storage container 100. The cylindrical housing 110 is designed to handle the large static loads of large, long-term battery chemicals. The cylindrical housing 110 may have several sub-parts known in the prior art, and these sub-parts may be designed according to a variety of applicable standards, but are not limited to the following: 2. MIL-STD-1522 1972 3.MIL-STD-1522A 1984-Standard General Requirements for Safe Design and Operation of Pressurized Missile and Space Systems; 4.Change, JB, Lou, MCand Huang, LC-P., PVP-Vol.318, The American Society for Mechanical Engineers, 1995, Updated Requirements for Pressurized Space Systems; 5.ANSI / AIAA S-080-1998,Space Systems-Metallic Pressure Vessels,Pressurized Structures,and Pressure Components,American National Standard Institute and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics,1998; 6.ANSI / AIAA S-081-2000,Space Systems-Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels,American National Standard Institute and American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics,2000; 7.Horton,R.E.,et al,Damage Tolerance of Composites-Final Report,AFWAL-TR-87-3030,1988; 8.Change,J.B.,Enhanced Technology for Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels,Technical Summary Final Report,Aerospace Report No.TR-99(8504)-1,2000,February 2000; 9.Change,J.B.,Chiu,S.T.and Huang,L.C.-P.Damage Control of Space-Flight Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels,IAF-00-I.3.10,51 st International Astronautical Congress,2000; 10.Babel,H.and Grimes L.,AIAA Space Pressure Vessel Working Group Meeting Presentation Materials,1998; 11.Ralph M.,Tapphorn,Test Report,Impact Damage Effects and Control Applied to Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels,TR-806-001,NASA Johnson Space Center,White Sands Test Facility,July 29,1998; 12.Polymer Matrix Composites,MIL-HDBK-17E,January 1997; 13.Fracture Control Requirements for Payloads using the Space Shuttle,NASA-STD-5003,NASA / Headquarters,1999; 14.Johnson,E.and Nokes,J.P.Nondestructive Evaluation(NDE)Techniques Assessment for Graphite / Epoxy(GR / Ep)Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels,Aerospace report,TR-908(8504)-3,October 1998; 15.Fracture Control Implementation Handbook for Payloads,Experiments,and Similar Hardware,NASA-HDBK-P020,June 2002; 16.Lewis J.AIAA Space Pressure Vessel Working Group Meeting Presentation Materials,1999; 17.ASME(ASME International,Three Park Avenue,New York,New York 10016-5990,www.asme.org)Boiler and Pressure Vessel Certifications,Pressure Vessels Section VIII Division 1,U-Pressure Vessels,UM-Miniature Pressure Vessels;Pressure Vessels Section VIII,Division II-U2-Pressure Vessels(Alternative Rules for Pressure Vessels);Pressure Vessels Section VIII,Division III,U3-High Pressure Vessels; Reinforced Pressure Vessels,Section X,RP-Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Vessels;and Pressure Relief Devices,Section XIII,UV-Pressure Vessel Pressure Relief Valves,UD-Pressure Vessel Pressure Relief Devices,UV3-High Pressure Vessel Pressure Relief Valves,and UD3-High Pressure Vessel Pressure Relief Devices; 18.ANSI / AIAA S-081 Revision B,2018 Space Systems-Composite Overwrapped Pressure Vessels; 19.DNV-the independent expert in assurance and risk management,the world’s leading classification society and recognized advisor for the maritime industry,Pressure Equipment and Systems;certifications provided according to DNV rules,European Directives on Pressure Equipment(PED)and Transportable Pressure Equipment(TPED),ASME,and AD 2000; 20.American Bureau of Shipping-development and verification of standards for the design,construction and operational performance of marine-related facilities,ABS Rules for Steel Vessels for Vessels Certified for International Voyages,USCG Approved 9 June 2003; 21.EN ISO 11439:2000 Gas Cylinders-High Pressure Cylinders for the On-Board Storage of Natural Gas as a Fuel for Automotive Vehicles; 22.ANSI / IAS NGV 2-1998 Basic Requirements for Compressed Natural Gas Vehicle(NGV)Fuel Containers; 23.ISO 9809-1 / 1999 Gas Cylinders-Refillable Seamless Steel Gas Cylinders-Design,Construction and Testing-Part 1:Quenched and Tempered Steel Cylinders with Tensile Strength Less than 1100 Mpa for assembly,operation,inspection.); 24.ASTM D1784-20 Standard Classification System for and Basis for Specification for Rigid PVC compounds and CPVC Compounds; 25.ASME Class fittings and flanges to include class 150,300,400,600,900,1500,and 2500; 26.ASME / ANSI pipe schedules for metal and plastic pipes.

[0049] In various embodiments (not shown), multiple cylindrical housings 110 are fixed together to support a battery, flow battery, metal-air battery, capacitor, or fuel cell within an energy storage container 100.

[0050] In various embodiments (not shown), multiple cylindrical housings 110 are spaced apart by a certain distance but connected by piping (fluid or gas communication) or wiring, and the use of a system of multiple cylindrical housings 110 supports battery, capacitor, and fuel cell functions.

[0051] Referring to Figure 4, the diaphragm (membrane) 116 is positioned between each end cap 120 selected from a pair of end caps 120 and the corresponding end 112 of the cylindrical housing 100, separating the unit and creating a separate sealed chamber that allows electrons or ions to cross. Dividing lines between multiple cylindrical housings 100 can be used to integrate structural partitions (not shown) between multiple cylindrical housings 100, or to integrate a hybrid system of partitions and diaphragms (membranes) 116 (Figures 10, 11, 13, and 14).

[0052] Working in conjunction with a pair of end caps 120, the first primary function of the cylindrical housing 110 is to form a completely airtight container and seal at non-ambient pressure to obtain desired battery chemistry reactions, thermodynamic control, and chemical retention. Long-term energy storage includes grid, commercial, residential, vehicle, and device applications. It should be understood that non-ambient pressure may mean pressure lower than atmospheric pressure (i.e., vacuum or negative pressure) or higher than atmospheric pressure (i.e., positive pressure). The ability to draw in vacuum and subsequently pressurize at the cell level allows the cylindrical housing 110 to act as an environmental chamber during the manufacturing process. Here, the cells are inactivated (using an inert gas such as argon) via a subsequent vacuum / filling step, followed by electrolyte injection. It may also be desirable to vary the pressure / vacuum to optimize the charging rate, battery capacity, and discharge rate, and to control temperature and chemical reaction rates during various stages of the charge / discharge cycle. For example, slowly reducing the pressure to control the temperature during high C charging rates (C rates). A second primary function of the cylindrical housing 110 is to house (optional) electrode retainers 130, electrolytes, and, in the case of designs without retainers (Figure 9), to house the specific electrodes 140, separators 160, and electrolytes of the particular design. In certain single and multi-cylinder assemblies, the intention is to create a closed-loop environment for holding chemicals and gases for reversible chemical, thermodynamic, thermal, workpiece, and energy reactions. Furthermore, in one embodiment, the cylindrical housing 110 acts as a pressure vessel and is configured to comply with various standards / conventions for withstanding (supplying) clamping and pressurizing forces, such as ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials), ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers), and ANSI (American National Standards Institute), etc.

[0053] The cylindrical housing 110 is constructed of a suitable material that exhibits sufficient strength to withstand failure or rupture, shattering or collapse while pressurized or vacuumed to considerable positive and negative pressures. The material also possesses strength characteristics that take into account diurnal and seasonal temperature changes, tolerance for minor internal / external damage, expected fatigue cycles, unexpected accidents, thermal runaway events, compressive forces due to burial, and strength that allows for integration into structures, buildings, or vehicles while having an appropriate safety factor. Common materials may include, but are not limited to, metals, plastics, or composite materials. Energy storage containers designed for stationary ground applications can be manufactured from metal. For applications where weight is a critical factor, such as vehicle or maritime use, they may be manufactured from aluminum, composite materials, or plastics. Many types of materials may exist, including the following: Type 1 - all metal, Type 2 - metal liner with composite material overlap (hoop only), Type 3 - metal liner with composite material overlap (optimized design consisting of hoop and helical as needed), Type 4 - plastic liner with composite material overlap, and Type 5 - all composite material (not yet commercialized). Metal enclosures are relatively easy to implement, offering safety and the ability to withstand high positive pressure and vacuum. In this case, metal enclosures include Types 1, 2, and 3. Within the same metal class, Type 1 is the least expensive and heaviest, while Type 3 is the most expensive and lightest.

[0054] The cylindrical housing 110 has flanges 114 at each end 112 of the cylindrical housing 110 to accommodate a pair of end caps 120 (Figures 1 and 5). The flanges 114 are made of angled material with fastener holes along the circumference and conform to various standards / conventions, but are not limited to the following: 1.Farr,JRand Jawad,MH,Guidebook for the Design of ASME Section VIII Pressure Vessels;ASME,2010;2.2010 ASME Boiler&Pressure Vessel Code Section VIII Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels-Division 1,ASME,01 July 2011;3.ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code 2021 Complete Set,BPVC-Complete Code-2021; and 4.ASME Class fittings and flanges to include class 150,300,400,600,900,1500,and 2500.

[0055] In another embodiment (not shown), a pair of end caps 120 can be screwed, welded, interlocked, or bonded to two opposing ends 112 of a cylindrical housing 110. For plastic or composite materials, the pair of end caps 120 may be an integrated cylinder or bonded to the cylindrical housing 110. Using a removable pair of end caps 120 improves access to internal components, providing a pathway for easy and effective maintenance, recycling of aging chemicals, updating of containers by future chemical systems, and replacement of internal components. Many types of removable pair of end caps 120 exist and may include bolted flanges, twist / lock, welded, or bonded ones. The flanges 114 further allow for joining multiple cylindrical housings 110, which can then operate as a single battery system while having different pressures or vacuums. This could be applied to flow batteries, fuel cells, metal-air batteries, thermal batteries, as well as standard redox and electrochemical batteries.

[0056] Referring to Figure 2, mounting points (119A) for horizontal mounting of the energy storage container 100 can be incorporated in the form of flange fasteners 119A, based on the mounting requirements of stationary equipment, vehicles, trailers, structures, buildings, etc. Alternatively, mounting points (119B) in the form of band clamps 119B can be installed along the circumference of the cylindrical housing 110 to accommodate vertical mounting. Mounting points (119A, 119B) can be welded to the metal cylindrical housing 110. In the case of plastic tanks or tanks made of composite materials, mounting points (119A, 119B) can be incorporated into the molding or layup process.

[0057] In one embodiment, the cylindrical housing 110 includes a filling port 118 for adding or removing an electrolyte gas or liquid from the cylindrical housing 110. The same filling port 118 can be used in conjunction with a shut-off valve to serve multiple functions, such as a pressure port and mounting point for an overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 (Figure 3), and a passage for an active cooling system. The overall focus is on reducing manufacturing costs by minimizing holes and joints in the cylindrical housing 110 while maintaining the overall strength of the cylindrical housing 110.

[0058] Herein, an exemplary method for pressurizing the cylindrical housing 110 with gas or liquefied gas electrolyte is described. Both the primary expansion region of one end cap 120 and the secondary expansion region of the other end cap 120 are evacuated, and the diaphragms (membranes) 116 of each end cap 120 are withdrawn toward their corresponding end caps 120. Then, the joints of the primary expansion region of one end cap 120 and the secondary expansion region of the other end cap 120 are sealed (blocked) to maintain the vacuum. Subsequently, the cylindrical housing 110 is filled with electrolyte liquid and / or gas using the filling port 118 to a pressure just above its vapor pressure at a given temperature. Next, to prevent condensation, the cylindrical housing 110 is sealed (blocked) at the highest filling temperature. Then, the vacuum is removed from the primary expansion region of one end cap 120 and the secondary expansion region of the other end cap 120, and the primary expansion region of one end cap 120 and the secondary expansion region of the other end cap 120 are pressurized to the battery operating pressure. The primary expansion region of one end cap 120 and the secondary expansion region of the other end cap 120 apply pressure to the cylindrical housing 110 via the diaphragm (membrane) 116, and depending on the physical and chemical properties of the electrolyte, the gaseous or liquid electrolyte will undergo a phase transition from gas to liquid or supercritical liquid.

[0059] A pair of end caps 120 closes each end 112 of the cylindrical housing 110, providing a structure that creates an energy storage container 100. The pair of end caps 120 can be welded, bonded, brazed, or integrated as a composite material onto the cylindrical housing 110 and can be maintained, inspected, and repaired according to various standards / conventions, but are not limited to the following: 1.API 510 Pressure Vessel Inspection Code: In-Service Inspection,Rating,Repair,and Alteration,API RP 571-Damage Mechanisms Affecting Fixed Equipment in the Refining Industry,RP 572-Inspection of Pressure Vessels,RP 576-Inspection of Pressure-Relieving Devices,RP 577 Welding Inspection of Metallurgy,PR 578-Material Verification Program for New and Existing Alloy Piping Systems,PR 579-Fitness-For-Service,PR 580-Risk-Based Inspection,RP 580-Risk-Based Inspection,Publ 581-Risk-Based Inspection-Base Resource Document,RP 582-Recommended Practice and Supplementary Welding Guidelines for the Chemical,Oil,and Gas Industries,Publ 2201-Procedures for Welding or Hot Tapping on Equipment in Service,and API 510 Inspector Certification Examination Body of Knowledge;2.ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,Section V:Non-Destructive Examination,Section VIII:Division 1,Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels,Section VIII:Division 2,Rules for Construction of Pressure Vessels-Alternative Rules,Section IX:Welding and Brazing Qualifications,and PCC-1 Guidelines for Pressure Boundary Bolted Flange Joint Assembly;3.ASNT(The American Society for Nondestructive Testing,1711 Arlingate Lane,Columbus Ohio 43228-0518,www.asnt.org)CP-189 Standard for Qualify Personnel Qualification and Certification in Nondestructive Testing;4.NACE(NACE International,440 South Creek Drive,Houston,Texas 77084,www.nace.org)RP 0472 Methods and Controls to Prevent In-Service Environmental Cracking of Carbon Steel Weldments In Corrosive Petroleum Refining Environments and MR 0103 Materials Resistant to Sulfide Stress Cracking in Corrosive Petroleum Refining Environments;5.6. National Board (The National Board of Boiler and Pressure Vessel Inspectors, 1055 Crupper Avenue, Columbus, Ohio 43229, www.nationalboard.org) NB-23 National Board Inspection Code; 7. WRC (Welding Research Council, POBox 201547, Shaker Heights, Ohio 44120, www.forengineers.org) Bulletin 412 Challenges and Solutions in Repair Welding for Power and Processing Plants; and 8. OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration, 200 Constitution Avenue, NW, Washington DC 20210, www.osha.gov) 29 CFR Part 1910 Occupational Safety and Health Standards) The shape of the end cap 120 conforms to major standards and industry standards (Pressure Vessel Design Manual, Dennis Moss; Pressure Vessel Handbook, Eugene Megyesy; Pressure Vessel Design Handbook,Henry Bednar;Modern Flange Design Bulletin 502,Taylor Forge;Shigley Joseph E,Mechanical Engineering Design 2003,Sixth Edition,McGraw Hill,Boston;ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code,Section VIII,Divisions 1,2,and 3,ASME II,Part D,and ASME V;Europe, EN-13445;Germany, ADDesigned in accordance with Merkblatt Code (UK, British Standards BS 5500; France, CODAP; and China, GB-150). Each flange 122 of each end cap 120 provides a surface for clamping a diaphragm (membrane) 116 or structural support bulkhead (not shown) for various applications. The flanges 122 and closing methods are designed in accordance with various standards / industry practices, but are not limited to, such as ASME Class fittings and flanges to include classes 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, and 2500.

[0060] The primary purpose of the end caps 120 is to seal the ends of the cylindrical housing 110 so that various pressures can be applied to the interior of the cylindrical housing 110, creating a primary expansion region associated with one end cap 120 and a secondary expansion region associated with the other end cap 120. There are also several other secondary functions associated with the end caps 120. The dividing line between the end caps 120 and the cylindrical housing 110 can be sandwiched by a diaphragm (membrane) 116 of appropriate material to apply pressure associated with the cylindrical housing 110. At the same time, the diaphragm (membrane) 116 can, but is not required, allow electrons, ions, and protons to move between the regions of the cylindrical housing 110 and the expansion regions to assist in charge / discharge cycles and chemical reactions within the cylindrical housing 110. The end caps 120 can also incorporate mounting locations, fittings for applying pressure, a pressure relief valve 124, and mounting points for horizontal or vertical installation (Figure 2). The shape of the end cap 120 is not limited but does not contradict many standard designs / standards / design conventions for pressure vessels optimized to maintain considerable positive and negative pressure, such as: 1. Pressure Vessel Design Manual, Dennis Moss; Pressure Vessel Handbook, Eugene Megyesy; Pressure Vessel Design Handbook, Henry Bednar; Modern Flange Design Bulletin 502, Taylor Forge; Shigley Joseph E, Mechanical Engineering Design 2003, Sixth Edition, McGraw Hill, Boston.

[0061] Structural support bulkheads (not shown) can be installed along the dividing line of the flange 122 to help radially reinforce the cylindrical housing 110 while adding certain properties to support the function of the diaphragm (membrane), and can also provide a method for electrically conducting electrons between the battery and the associated load 116. The end cap 120 and the cylindrical housing 110 can be fitted with electrical connectors, sensors, battery management control, and pressure-resistant feedthrough fittings (not shown) for SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) control.

[0062] The end cap 120 can be made of metal, composite material, or plastic, based on specific pressure needs, internal chemical requirements, external environmental requirements, electrical insulation, dimensions, weight, etc.

[0063] The metal end cap 120 has a flange 122 of appropriate thickness, conforming to various standard designs / specifications / design conventions, but not limited to, such as: Pressure Vessel Design Manual, Dennis Moss; Pressure Vessel Handbook, Eugene Megyesy; Pressure Vessel Design Handbook, Henry Bednar; Modern Flange Design Bulletin 502, Taylor Forge; Shigley Joseph E, Mechanical Engineering Design 2003, Sixth Edition, McGraw Hill, Boston; ASME Class fittings and flanges to include class 150, 300, 400, 600, 900, 1500, and 2500.

[0064] The flange 122 may further include holes (not shown) to allow fasteners (not shown) to be joined to the cylindrical housing 110. To create primary and secondary expansion regions, a diaphragm (membrane) 116 and / or structural bulkheads (not shown) spanning the circumference of the end cap 120 and the cylindrical housing 110 can be clamped between the flanges 122 using fasteners (not shown). Flange fasteners (not shown) may be desirable for horizontal and vertical applications, or as locations for mounting brackets (not shown) for integration with packs, structures, vehicles, or buildings.

[0065] Pressure ports (not shown) in the form of threaded fittings within the end caps 120, which have shut-off valves, allow for the application of varying pressures to the primary and secondary expansion regions on the primary or secondary side of each end cap 120, thereby pre-charging the cylindrical housing 110 region with positive pressure or vacuum. The pressure ports (not shown) are configured to introduce fluid into the corresponding end caps 120.

[0066] Similar to the primary expansion region, the end caps 120 of the secondary expansion region have pressure relief valves 124 to release any overpressure caused by thermal runaway events transmitted from the cylindrical housing 110 to the expansion region, thereby reducing the pressure on the cylindrical housing 110 while allowing the battery chemicals and hot gases to remain in the cylindrical housing 110. In one embodiment, the set pressures of the pressure relief valves 124 of each end cap 120 selected from a pair of end caps 120 are measurably different from each other. For example, in one exemplary embodiment, the pressure relief valve 124 of the primary expansion region has a lower set operating pressure, while the pressure relief valve of the secondary expansion region has a higher set operating pressure. In another embodiment (not shown), if an active liquid, gas, or solid material is intended to be stored in the primary and secondary expansion regions or to flow through the diaphragm (membrane) 116, it may be desirable to have a retaining envelope (not shown) upstream of that particular pressure relief valve 124. In another embodiment (not shown), the set pressure of the pressure relief valve 124 of each end cap 120 selected from a pair of end caps 120 is measurably the same.

[0067] The end cap 120 may also be fitted with a bracket (not shown) by fasteners (not shown) or welding, or by fasteners (not shown) to the flange 122, for vertical or horizontal installation of the energy storage container assembly. In the case of composite or plastic materials, the mounting bracket (not shown) may be integrated with the end cap 120.

[0068] Typical shapes of the end cap 120 that constitutes the head of the pressure vessel may include elliptical, flat, 10% dished, standard dished, conical, semi-elliptical, hemispherical, inverted, etc. These shapes are not limited to, but can conform to various standards / design conventions such as: Pressure Vessel Design Manual, Dennis Moss; Pressure Vessel Handbook, Eugene Megyesy; Pressure Vessel Design Handbook, Henry Bednar; Modern Flange Design Bulletin 502, Taylor Forge; Shigley Joseph E, Mechanical Engineering Design 2003, Sixth Edition, McGraw Hill, Boston. In various embodiments (not shown), the end cap 120 may be fixed to the cylindrical housing 110 by two flanges and fasteners, welded in metal, or formed as an integrated part of the cylindrical housing 110 from plastic or composite material.

[0069] Referring to Figure 3, the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 is a tertiary (third) pressure fail-safe mechanism and safety feature of the cylindrical housing 110, designed to mitigate and shut off catastrophic thermal runaway events in the energy storage container 100, and operates only after the primary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124 and the secondary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124 have exceeded their set operating limits (second set pressure). In one embodiment, the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 includes a pressure relief valve 152 configured to operate when the pressure exceeds a second set pressure, which corresponds to the larger value selected from the primary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124 and the secondary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124. The final third mechanism after the primary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124 and the secondary expansion zone pressure relief valve 124 have been activated by a continuous increase in pressure is the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150. An envelope 154 is connected downstream of a pressure relief valve 152, and this envelope 154 is configured to be filled with the contents of the cylindrical housing 110 of the energy storage container 100. The overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 has two functions that operate automatically in multiple modes depending on the pressure of the contents inside the cylindrical housing 110 of the energy storage container 100. In the first mode of operation, the pressure and high temperature gas of the cylindrical housing 110, as well as at least some of the contents such as chemicals, are released into the envelope 154, which is sized to chemically depower the cylindrical housing 110 of the energy storage container 100, thereby preventing a thermal runaway event and retaining the chemicals inside the envelope 154, preventing their release into the atmosphere. Although unlikely, if, by any chance, the cylindrical housing 110 of the energy storage container 100 remains energized after the dumping of this large amount of chemicals, the second mode of the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 will activate, metering and releasing at least some of the contents from the envelope 154, thereby releasing the pressure into the atmosphere.Therefore, the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 prevents the release of chemicals and gases into the atmosphere by holding them within the envelope 154 until the second mode of the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 is activated and the thermal runaway is stopped. In one embodiment, the envelope 154 further includes a pressure relief valve (not shown) configured to meter and release into the atmosphere at least a portion of the contents of the cylindrical housing 110 of the energy storage container 100 when the pressure of the contents released into the envelope 154 exceeds a third set pressure, the third set pressure corresponding to the pressure limit (capacity) of the envelope 154. The second mode is activated only if the pressure of the contents released into the envelope 154 exceeds the third set pressure after the first mode has been activated, the third set pressure corresponding to the pressure limit (capacity) of the envelope 154.

[0070] In another embodiment (not shown), the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 includes a rupture disc (not shown) configured to rupture when the pressure exceeds a second set pressure, the second set pressure being the larger of a pressure relief valve 124 in the primary expansion region and a pressure relief valve 124 in the secondary expansion region.

[0071] Mitigating thermal runaway using the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 may be desirable for certain battery chemicals and installations. This is not the only way to regulate the pressure within the cylindrical housing 110. This can be achieved by regulating the pressure, and consequently the volume, of the primary and secondary expansion regions, thereby achieving similar desirable pressurization and regulation results.

[0072] Primary and secondary pressure control simultaneously provide clamping force and pressure control to the electrode stack 140 or (optional) electrode retainer(s) 130 to mitigate and / or block thermal runaway while retaining chemicals and hot gases into the cylindrical housing 110.

[0073] Primary and secondary pressure control, as well as associated relief regions, are formed by clamping a diaphragm (membrane) 116 (which can be made of a conductive, insulating, gas-diffusing, proton-exchangeable, or ion-selective material) between the flange 114 of the cylindrical housing 110 and the corresponding flange 122 of the end cap 120. The region created in the end cap 120 is separated from the cylindrical housing 110, and allows pressure to be transmitted between the separated chambers. The energy storage container 100 may operate without primary and secondary pressure control functions, or it may have one or more pressure control regions.

[0074] The primary and secondary pressure controls are intended to function as buffers or accumulators that allow for a consistent operating environment within the cylindrical housing 110 during the charge / discharge cycle, regulating diurnal and seasonal temperature variations, and solar thermal factors, automatically adjusting for the expansion / contraction of the thermal and charge state of the electrodes 140, and regulating the clamping pressure of the cell stack. Based on specific design criteria and the performance of the battery chemistry, the desired pressure in the cylindrical housing 110 can be maintained more consistently across the daily operating range and charge / discharge states by specific pressures and adjustments to the pressure in the primary and secondary expansion regions. These may include positive or vacuum pressures as necessary to achieve the intended results. The second purpose of the primary and secondary expansion regions is to reduce the pressure transmitted from the cylindrical housing 110 to mitigate and block thermal runaway events, while maintaining the battery chemistry within the region of the cylindrical housing 110 via a diaphragm (membrane) 116 or structural partition (not shown) and setting it to the critical operating pressure of the relief valve. A specific volume / pressure (based on the shape of the end cap 120) can be reduced in each of the first and second stage relief operations, while simultaneously allowing for corresponding temperature control. As a design feature, while the pressure within the cylindrical housing 110 region decreases, the battery chemicals and hot gases are contained within the cylindrical housing 110, initially mitigating and, in some cases, shutting off thermal runaway events. Once the battery cools and the pressure decreases, the primary and secondary expansion regions are automatically readjusted by the Battery Management System (BMS) to a specified pressure suitable for the specific battery chemicals within the cylindrical housing 110 region, allowing the battery to continue operating and providing self-repair and self-reset battery safety features. As a third design feature of the primary and secondary expansion regions, during the assembly and manufacturing process, various pressures can be applied to the cylindrical housing 110 region to cause phase changes in the electrode material 140 and electrolyte, sublimation of chemical elements, and then use to initiate the use of the energy storage container 100. Phase change and sublimation characteristics would also be useful for certain chemical reactions during operation.

[0075] Next, we will explain the operation of various pressure control systems with reference to Figures 1 to 6. [Examples]

[0076] Example 1: Positive Pressure: The cylindrical housing 110 is filled to a positive pressure of 1000 PSI with a tertiary pressure relief fail-safe setting (overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150) of 1300 PSI (pounds per square inch). The primary expansion region is pressurized to 1000 PSI, with zero net pressure acting on the diaphragm (membrane) 116 during normal operation, and the pressure relief valve setting (also called the first set pressure) is 1100 PSI. The secondary expansion region is pressurized to 1000 PSI, with zero net pressure acting on the diaphragm (membrane) 116 during normal operation, and the pressure relief valve setting is 1200 PSI. As the thermal runaway event progresses and the pressure in the cylindrical housing 110 rises to 1100 PSI, and 100 PSI acts on both diaphragms (membranes) 116, the pressure in the cylindrical housing 110 is transferred to the primary and secondary expansion zones, simultaneously activating the primary pressure relief valve 124. Once the primary expansion zone is evacuated, the pressure and temperature in the cylindrical housing 110 (Gay-Lussac's law) decrease to a level correlated with the volume of the end cap 120 and the space that the diaphragms (membranes) 116 can fill. Liquid chemicals and gases are retained in the cylindrical housing 110 during this first stage of thermal runaway mitigation, potentially shutting off the thermal runaway event. The secondary pressure relief valve can be set to 1200 PSI (also known as the second set pressure). If the thermal runaway event persists, the next defense to prevent catastrophic container failure is the secondary expansion zone and the associated pressure relief valve 124. Similar to the primary pressure relief, in order to actuate the secondary pressure relief valve 124, the cylindrical housing 110 may need to reach 1200 psi, with 200 psi acting on the diaphragm (membrane) 116, and again, the pressure and temperature of the cylindrical housing 110 may decrease by an amount correlated with the exhaust volume of the end cap 120 design. This is the second stage of thermal runaway mitigation, which can shut down thermal runaway events while still allowing the chemicals to be retained in the cylindrical housing 110.In the extremely rare event that a thermal runaway event is not mitigated by the initial two-stage pressure control, the overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150 (tertiary fail-safe) chemically shuts off the battery while retaining the chemicals and hot gases in the envelope 154. When the design pressure (third set pressure) of the envelope 154 is reached, the gases are metered and released into the atmosphere. Automatic multi-mode pressure release mitigates thermal runaway, prevents catastrophic failure of the energy storage container 100, and retains the chemicals and hot gases in the container until the second mode of the tertiary fail-safe. To obtain thermodynamically consistent battery chemical operation and to account for seasonal and daytime (or other time frame) temperature variations, the initial pressurization of the cylindrical housing 110 and the primary pressure relief valve 124 / secondary pressure relief valve 124 / pressure relief valve 152 can be set 25 PSI lower in summer and 25 PSI higher in winter (Figure 6).

[0077] Example 2: Ambient Pressure: Ambient, or near-ambient energy storage containers 100 with pressure relief and battery chemical retention functions may be desired. Large, long-term, electrochemical energy storage requirements necessitate the size of large grid / industrial / commercial storage containers 100 and require a liquid / gas / solid container or vessel with a level of chemical retention properties, as well as safety features to release static strength and pressure in the event of thermal runaway, pressure, expansion, or chemical element leakage type events, regardless of positive pressure, vacuum, or ambient pressure, due to the pure mass of electrodes and electrolytes. Ambient batteries without chemical retention requirements can be discharged into the atmosphere, and even then, if the electrode material expands and contracts due to solar heat or heating and cooling during charging / discharging, primary and secondary expansion regions, as well as the diaphragm (membrane) 116, can be used for pressurization and physical clamping force (Figure 5). If physical clamping force is not required, the ambient battery can be designed to operate without the diaphragm (membrane) 116 clamped between flanges 114 and 122, and that space can be used for the battery chemical elements. For battery chemistry designed to meet ambient pressure requirements, the primary expansion region provides positive and vacuum pressure relief through a relief mechanism installed in its end cap 120, simultaneously providing positive / negative pressure relief (e.g., 3 PSI positive pressure and 3 PSI negative pressure) as the battery chemistry elements inside the cylindrical housing 110 are heated / cooled and expand / contract. The secondary pressure relief region also simultaneously, but at higher design stages (e.g., 6 PSI positive pressure and 6 PSI negative pressure). If necessary, a tertiary pressure relief (overpressure fail-safe mechanism 150) can be installed anywhere in the cylindrical housing 110 to interrupt thermal runaway events and prevent catastrophic failure of the energy storage container 100. For these ambient and near-ambient batteries, suitable materials for the cylindrical housing 110 and end cap 120 can be plastic, aluminum, or lightweight composite materials.

[0078] Example 3: Vacuum Pressure: Capacitors 400 (Figure 12) of various sizes and designs utilize vacuum as a dielectric for insulation purposes. For example, an energy storage container 100 can house the plates, oil, and other assemblies required for a power factor correction capacitor. When a vacuum of 500 PSIG (pounds per square inch gauge) is drawn into the energy storage container 100, the primary pressure / vacuum relief control region may also have a vacuum of 500 PSIG (0 psi acting on the membrane), and the vacuum relief valve is set to 525 PSIG, allowing it to be drawn into the surrounding region, thereby controlling over-vacuum conditions and preventing damage to the cylindrical housing 110. If the over-vacuum condition progresses further, a secondary vacuum relief valve set to 550 PSIG actively provides even more protection to the cylindrical housing 110. Both vacuum relief mechanisms prevent ambient air from mixing with the internal elements of the capacitor, resulting in a state that is repairable in the field or automatically reset by a device management system.

[0079] The energy storage container 100 is designed to be a large-scale energy storage device. Chemists, engineers, and scientists can further design ground and space-based battery / capacitor / fuel cell platforms that utilize the energy storage container 100, which operates efficiently in a range of vacuum or positive pressure to charge, discharge, and store all or part of an electrochemical reaction, redox reaction, or entire capacitor cycle.

[0080] Similar to electroplating, preliminary studies have been conducted on evaporating / sublimating materials to the cathode and anode, where vacuum pressure may accelerate sublimation. In one example, a solid electrolyte is evaporated / sublimated into a gas to provide a suitable electrolyte. The pressure components of the container need to be suitable for the vacuum pressure, providing pressure difference protection for over-vacuum and over-pressure conditions, and can be adjusted during the day, season, or other timeframes (Figure 6).

[0081] Example 4: Simultaneous Pressure and Vacuum: By applying positive pressure to the cylindrical housing 110 and vacuum pressure to the electrode retainer 130, a pressure difference can be created between the two components. This is partly to assist ions, protons, electrons, electrolytes, or chemicals in passing through the diaphragm (membrane) 116 or other barriers, but also to provide a desired pressure or vacuum at the electrode 140 in question for purposes such as temperature control, increased intercalation, increased decomposition voltage, reduced resistance, etc. Alternatively, vacuum pressure can be applied to the cylindrical housing 110 and positive pressure to the electrode retainer 130. For example, in the case of certain batteries such as metal-air batteries 200 (Figure 10), flow batteries 300 (Figure 11), and fuel cells (400, 500) (Figures 13, 14), sections of the cylindrical housing 110 joined by flanges, piping, or wires may alternately have pressure and vacuum during the charge, discharge, or storage cycle of the particular electrode 140 in question, based on pressure, temperature, and performance requirements. To elaborate further on a specific battery system, a flow battery 300 (Figure 11) may be well suited for charging with positive pressure on the cathode side of the system (including the tank, piping, and electrodes) and vacuum on the anode side of the system (including the tank, piping, and electrodes). Applying reverse pressure to the anode / cathode sides of the flow battery 300 (Figure 11) can provide desirable performance for the discharge reaction, the vacuum pressure on the cathode side of the system, and the positive pressure on the anode side of the system.

[0082] Broadly speaking, there are times when it is desirable to charge a battery / capacitor / cell / retainer at a specific pressure / vacuum, store it at some other desired pressure / vacuum, and discharge it at a different pressure / vacuum.

[0083] In another embodiment (not shown), an air bag (not shown), similar to an air chamber used for buoyancy control in an airship, is installed in the end cap 120, or in the middle of the cylindrical housing 110, or inside the center of the jelly roll, or elsewhere within the energy storage container 100, enabling pressure / temperature control, chemical retention, and radial clamping force on the electrode material 140. The air bag (not shown) is primarily useful for primary and secondary pressure control. This embodiment would be useful for plastic molded containers or composite material containers with an integrated end cap 120, where a diaphragm (membrane) 116 is not installed.

[0084] Referring to Figures 1 to 9, and in particular Figures 7 to 9, the electrode retainer 130 provides a modular, systematic way of installing the electrode 140, separator 160, electrolyte, and current collector (not shown) 170 in the energy storage container 100. The energy storage container 100 may be used with both the cathode retainer and the anode retainer 130, with only one type of electrode retainer 130, or without any retainers at all (Figure 9). The electrode retainer 130 accommodates the repair, maintenance, replacement, and recycling of the aging electrode 140 at the end of its lifespan.

[0085] In the first embodiment, as shown in Figure 7, the electrode retainer 130 is a vertical retainer 130, which is flat, patty-shaped, and can be configured with various thicknesses, typically in a stacked form, and with a diameter that fits snugly inside the cylindrical housing 110. The vertical retainer 130 includes an inner sliding retaining element 132 having a plurality of wavy holes 133 that allow for electrolyte circulation, and an outer sliding retaining element 134 having a plurality of wavy holes 135 that allow for electrolyte circulation. An internal cavity 136 is defined between the inner sliding retaining element 132 and the outer sliding retaining element 134 to support the installation of at least one electrode 140. In other words, the vertical retainer 130 has an internal cavity 136 that supports the placement of the electrode material 140, and the vertical retainer 130 has corrugated holes (133, 135) that allow the electrolyte to circulate for chemical reactions, allowing ions to move between the electrodes 130 and enabling a cooling function. The vertical retainer 130 is sealed and can operate at a different pressure or vacuum than the cylindrical housing 110. The vertical retainer 130 can be conductive so that current and electrons can flow into the cylindrical housing 110 when a reduction in electrical resistance is required. In one embodiment, the vertical retainer 130 can be constructed of a non-conductive material to act as a separator / insulator for neighboring electrode retainers 130, cylindrical housings 110, end caps 120, or diaphragms (membranes) 116. The electrode material 140 can take several forms, but is not limited, such as a jelly roll electrode, a laminated wafer, a vertical thin-film electrode, a wafer electrode, and a disk-shaped electrode, or a free electrode made of a certain bulk medium. In one embodiment, at least one electrode separator 160 is placed between at least one pair of electrodes 140. As seen in Figure 7, the pair of electrodes 140 are arranged parallel to each other. As seen in Figure 7, the vertical retainer 130 is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the cylindrical housing 110. The vertical retainer 130 has a variety of thicknesses, taking into account the laminated cell layers and voltage, in order to obtain efficient interaction between the active electrode material 140 and the electrolyte and the opposing vertical retainer 130.In one embodiment, the vertical retainer 130 acts as a separator for the electrode material 140 of neighboring electrode retainers. In one embodiment, a single vertical retainer 130 can house the anode 140 or cathode 140 separately, and the vertical retainers 130 are staggered / alternating to obtain an efficient electrochemical reaction. In another embodiment, both the anode and cathode material may be present within a single vertical retainer 130, in which case an inter-retainer electrode separator 160 is required. Another positive aspect of the design of the vertical retainer 130 is that, in the case of a metal cylindrical housing 110, the vertical retainer 130 prevents the electrode 140 from coming into contact with the cylindrical housing 110 (electrical insulation). The vertical retainer 130 also has a sleeve-fitting function that takes into account the expansion and contraction of the electrode 140, and the method of fixing the end cap 120 allows for clamping force to be provided to the retainer stack (Figure 7). The diaphragm (membrane) 116, positioned between each end cap 120 and the cylindrical housing 110, has its primary / secondary expansion region appropriately controlled and can also provide the clamping force necessary to adjust the sliding fit function in accordance with the expansion / contraction of each vertical retainer 130.

[0086] In the second embodiment, as shown in Figure 8, the electrode retainer 130 is a longitudinal retainer 230 (hot dog type). The longitudinal retainer 230 includes a plurality of tubes 232 arranged substantially parallel to each other, and these tubes 232 are spaced apart from each other.

[0087] The cathode 140 is located in at least one tube selected from a plurality of tubes 232, and the anode 140 is located in at least one tube selected from a plurality of tubes 232. At least one fluid flow is located in the space 234 formed between the plurality of tubes 232, and this fluid includes at least one of a coolant and / or electrolyte. The plurality of tubes 232 are connected to each other to form a substantially cylindrical shape. The shape of the longitudinal retainer 230 can be tubular, rod-shaped, plate-shaped, annular, or box-shaped. The longitudinal retainer 230 can accept free electrodes 140 (bulk material) or specially designed mounted electrodes 140. The focus for large batteries is to produce electrode material 140 that is cheaper and can be produced more quickly to match the speed and scale of manufacturing and selection. Film thickness accuracy may be reduced, but costs can be lowered and production speed can be increased. This is an acceptable trade-off, as energy density is not a major requirement for large stationary batteries. One such configuration includes several partition-type retainers / separators / current collectors (not shown) coupled with multiple longitudinal electrode tubes 232 (Figure 8), shafts, rods, or other suitable shapes arranged longitudinally within a cylindrical housing 110. In various embodiments (not shown), the cathode 140 and / or anode 140 are formed in the shape of a square tube, cylindrical rod, hexagonal shaft, rectangular pipe, and elliptical pipe.

[0088] In one embodiment, the longitudinal retainer 230 can accommodate a hot dog / hamburger-type battery configuration of a long tube containing a wafer cathode 140 and a node 140 of any shape, an electrode rod containing both an anode and a cathode with a suitable separator 160 and collector, or a free-standing electrode 140 of any shape, an individual rod of one type of electrode 140, or an electrode rod containing both an anode and a cathode with a suitable separator 160 and collector, or a long tube containing a wafer cathode 140 and anode 140 inside the longitudinal retainer 230. Cap fittings at the ends of the tubes of the electrodes 140 are retractable in a nesting manner so that as the temperature and pressure inside the energy storage container 100 change, along with expansion and contraction associated with the charge state, primary and secondary expanding diaphragms (membranes) 116 can physically press against the electrode material 140. The tubes 232 are arranged so that cooling passages are distributed longitudinally, leaving space in their tangential sections, or so that the coolant passes through natural gaps created in the tangential sections of each tube 232.

[0089] In another embodiment (not shown), the shape of the longitudinal retainer 230 is flat or box-shaped. A flat longitudinal retainer 230 can accommodate a free electrode, or a combination of a flat laminated cathode film 140 and an anode film 140 in a single flat longitudinal retainer 230 having a suitable spacer and current collector (not shown). This design is efficient considering the density of the electrode material 140 and the volume it occupies inside the flat longitudinal retainer 230, and utilizes existing thin-film electrode manufacturing techniques. This can be a very long prism cell or pouch cell.

[0090] In another embodiment (not shown), the longitudinal retainer 230 is annular in shape. The annular longitudinal retainer 230 can accommodate free electrodes 140 of various sizes, each having an integrated current collector (not shown), alternately in a ring-like manner, similar to the annual rings of a tree, or it can wind one type of electrode 140 inside each annular ring, each also having an integrated current collector (not shown).

[0091] The multiple tubes 232 may include longitudinal tubes, square tubes, rods, or tubes of other shapes parallel to the longitudinal principal axis of the energy storage container 100. The longitudinal retainer 230 may be a perforated tube / corrugated tube that provides a cavity for housing the electrode material 140 in the form of a jelly roll, wafer, or bulk material. The longitudinal retainer 230 is sealed and can operate under different pressures or vacuums than the cylindrical housing 110. In one embodiment, the longitudinal retainer 230 functions as a separator between the electrodes 140 and provides a mechanism for mounting a current collector (not shown).

[0092] The electrode retainers (130, 230) also provide flexibility to enable more effective thermal runaway mitigation and more effective thermal runaway interruption, updating / replacement of battery components / materials, and / or recycling of battery components / materials by separating some of the chemicals within the electrode retainers (130, 230) or the entire electrode retainers (130, 230). The interchangeable and interoperable nature of the electrode retainers (130, 230) allows the cylindrical housing 140 to be updated to match existing and future chemical or battery systems. This allows for a reduction in energy storage costs by reusing the cylindrical housing 140 and electrode retainers (130, 230) depending on the frequency of replacement of chemical components during the lifespan of the cylindrical housing 140, and updating them to match more affordable chemical and battery systems that may be developed in the future. The electrode material 140 inside the electrode retainers (130, 230) can be arranged in series and / or parallel, supporting a bipolar electrode architecture 140 for obtaining various desired voltages and currents. A key method and embodiment enabled by the cylindrical housing 140 is thermal management of the cylindrical housing 140 by simultaneously charging and discharging certain electrode retainers (130, 230), cells, or parts of the battery while the charge level is high and the ambient and internal temperatures are high. Both charging and discharging cycles generate heat related to the internal electrical resistance of the cells, but the electrochemical reaction associated with charging is usually exothermic, while the discharge reaction is endothermic. The battery management system (BMS) manages the electrode retainers (130, 230), the cells near the overheating retainer / cell, and the installed chemicals to release and absorb the heat of the electrode retainers (130, 230) that are overheating due to the thermodynamics of the discharge reaction.

[0093] Electrode retainers (130, 230) simply represent several configurations that battery engineers and chemists can use to insert their own battery chemicals such as cathodes, anodes, electrolytes, etc., while using existing industry electrode manufacturing processes, tools, etc. Electrode retainers (130, 230) can be configured in a short-side (hamburger) style (Figure 7) or a long-side (hotdog) style (Figure 8). Electrodes 140 can be mounted inside either style of electrode retainer (130, 230), with current collectors (not shown) individually attached to each electrode 140, providing a path for electrons or free electrodes, where electrons find a conductive path through the vicinity of nearby electrodes 140 (bulk material, i.e., spheres, tubes, pellets, or a combination of forms, etc.) and then proceed to a common collector(s) within the electrode retainer (130, 230). It is up to the battery designer to appropriately determine the size of the electrode retainer (130, 230) of the cathode (electrode 140) and the cathode (electrode 140) to match the electrode retainer (130, 230) of the anode (electrode 140) and the anode (electrode 140) in order to obtain the optimal cathode-to-anode ratio.

[0094] In another embodiment, as shown in Figure 15, a modified electrode retainer 230' according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown. The modified electrode retainer 230' is quite similar to the electrode retainer 230 in Figure 8, except for some modifications to its geometric shape. The modified electrode retainer 230' includes a plurality of cells 140 (electrodes 140) arranged in a circular pattern. As shown in Figure 15, the plurality of cells 140 (electrodes 140) are arranged in parallel so that a few cells 140 (electrodes 140) selected from the plurality of cells 140 are arranged to define the upper circular pattern together, and the remaining cells 140 (electrodes 140) selected from the plurality of cells 140 are arranged to define the lower circular pattern together. A plurality of clamp plates 236 are positioned at both ends of the plurality of cells 140 (electrodes 140). Multiple clamp plates 236 physically separate several cells 140 (electrodes 140) arranged together in the upper circular pattern from the remaining cells 140 (electrodes 140) arranged together in the lower circular pattern. At least one fluid flow is present in the space 234 formed between the multiple cells 140 (electrodes 140), and this fluid includes a coolant composed of at least one of a liquid and / or gas.

[0095] The overall concept of the energy storage container is to provide the battery development community with a known platform for the design, manufacture, and production of energy storage containers. By providing pre-designed longitudinal and vertical retainers, designers can easily focus on their own specific battery chemicals rather than the container itself. Furthermore, customers can determine which battery chemicals perform best (considering all factors) without utilizing any of these predetermined retainer options. The absence of retainers reduces the number of parts, resulting in benefits such as reduced complexity, lower manufacturing costs, and shorter manufacturing times. Since the energy storage container is optimized for large, long-term, electrochemical storage, it should be emphasized that the internal battery chemicals may also be appropriately manufactured and produced in a truly operational scale manner, rather than in the precision laboratory manufacturing environment of current electric vehicles and devices' small lithium-ion cells.

[0096] Referring to Figure 9, the cylindrical housing 110 can be designed to operate with or without an optional electrode retainer. In one embodiment, as shown in Figure 9, the retainer-free design is achieved using a jelly roll design electrode 140. The idea behind the jelly roll design electrode 140 is to manufacture large, long-term energy storage batteries on an industrial scale with minimal manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance costs, etc. As shown in Figure 9, the jelly roll design electrode 140 can have the jelly roll electrode 140 running along the entire length of the cylindrical housing 140, or divided into segments, connected to a separator 160, with a current collector (not shown) positioned to obtain the desired voltage and current output. The emphasis here is on winding up an easy-to-manufacture / affordable electrode 140 and separator 160 that is less complex than expanded metal sheets, foils, thin films, etc., except for changing the density of the medium filler. If the retainer-less gel electrode 140 is used, it can be wired to a current collector (not shown) to obtain a desired voltage / current output, and can be configured in series, parallel, or both simultaneously.

[0097] In one embodiment (not shown), a retainer-less design is achieved using a vertical thin-film electrode 140 or a thick wafer electrode 140 and a solid / liquid electrolyte, as well as a separator. A cylindrical housing 110 lining (not shown) is configured to electrically insulate the cylindrical housing 110 from the electrode 140. The focus is on easily and affordably manufacturing the extruded graphite or stretched quartz electrode 140, which is a sliced ​​vertical putty or wafer.

[0098] The term "electrode 140" should be understood to include at least one of the cathode and anode. Electrodes 140 can be of various types and sizes. For example, a free electrode 140 is placed inside an electrode retainer (130, 230), and electrons find a conductive path passing near similar free electrodes to a common collector (not shown) within the electrode retainer (130, 230). The free electrode 140 can be a bulk material (medium) consisting of a sphere, cylinder, pellet, or random material shape coated with anode and cathode materials. The shape used for the free electrode 140 can be used similarly for any type of electrode retainer (130, 230). In the case of a free electrode 140, the electrode retainer (130, 230) can be thinned to facilitate chemical reactions on both sides of the electrode retainer (130, 230), and the free electrode 140 in the middle of the electrode retainer (130, 230) also contributes to the reaction. While it is understood that the free electrode 140 may increase the internal battery resistance compared to the fixed electrode style, the advantages are the ease and cost of manufacturing the free electrode 140 and assembling it to the electrode retainers (130, 230), as well as its recyclability at the end of its lifespan and the compatibility of the new battery chemical element with the existing electrode retainers (130, 230) and energy storage container 100.

[0099] In another embodiment, the electrode 140 may be in the form of a mountable electrode 140, which includes a current collector (not shown) (typically industrial) individually mounted on each electrode element 140, providing a path for electrons to flow. The mountable electrode 140 can be used with any type of electrode retainer (130, 230). The mountable electrode 140 offers the benefits of reduced internal resistance and increased conductivity at the expense of limited design (manufacturing design) complexity and increased manufacturing costs.

[0100] In either case using electrode retainers (130, 230) of the type having free electrodes or fixed electrodes 140 inside, a current collector (not shown) establishes a path for electrons to be collected from each electrode retainer (130, 230) and then enter and exit the energy storage container 100. The current collector (not shown) transmits the flow of electrons between the active material of the electrodes 140 and the battery terminals. The current collector (not shown) can be arranged in series and / or parallel or in a bipolar configuration, taking into account the desired output voltage, and can also be arranged in the form of wires, flat metal sheets, or other conductive materials to collect current from each electrode retainer. The design and configuration of the current collector (not shown) must reduce the internal resistance of the battery in order to obtain efficient charge and discharge rates. In an alternative current collector (not shown) configuration, to further reduce the number of components and the fixtures inside the cylindrical housing 110, the anode or cathode current collector (not shown) can be electrically connected to an electrode retainer (130, 230), which in turn is electrically connected to a conductive container. This may result in lower electrical resistance and allow the contacts to be better suited to handling the desired current flow. Furthermore, it may be necessary for the opposing electrode retainers (130, 230) and the current collector (not shown) to be electrically isolated from the cylindrical housing 110.

[0101] The system design of various current collectors (not shown) may allow users to arrange and assemble internal cells / electrode retainers (130, 230) in various configurations to achieve various voltages and currents. This is a useful feature as it can be fully customized for a wide range of applications. Batteries, capacitors, and fuel cells may be located in the same container to provide hybrid performance. The design of the cylindrical housing 110 and the electrode retainers (130, 230) may each have associated current collector (not shown) systems.

[0102] The replaceable electrodes 140 and electrode retainers (130, 230) allow the battery to be "refreshed" as battery chemistry advances, which is another noteworthy design feature. Compared to existing devices lacking this feature, such as Tesla Powerwall, Powerpack, and Megapack, the present invention offers a significant competitive advantage as an environmentally friendly energy storage device. It is estimated that, with a properly adapted chemical system, the present invention can result in cost savings of up to 90% over the entire battery lifecycle, considering the total power stored and the power returned to the grid. The energy storage container 100 and electrode retainers (130, 230) are replaceable and reusable / recyclable. The electrode retainers (130, 230) are also reusable / recyclable. As battery chemistry changes over time and chemicals wear out in the field, a new battery chemistry system can be installed in existing energy storage containers 100 to enable remarkable and unprecedented increases in power and energy density.

[0103] In one embodiment of the present invention, passive cooling can be performed. Longitudinal or radially protruding fins (not shown) made of a thermally conductive material allow heat to escape from the energy storage container 100 via radiative and conductive cooling. The cylindrical housing 110 and end cap 120 may be integrated during the manufacturing process. Alternatively, separate components can be attached to the energy storage container 100 by adhesive, welding, mechanically with fasteners, or by clamping, and can be installed / removed if specific cooling characteristics are desired. The method for cooling the energy storage container of the ground 100 is a passive cooling method with a large-capacity heat sink (not shown) using radiative and conductive cooling fins (not shown), regardless of the internal battery chemicals. The fins (not shown) can be arranged longitudinally along the energy storage container 100 or radially along the circumference of the energy storage container 100. To enhance passive cooling, the end cap 120 may have straight fins or annular fins. Cooling methods for underground energy storage containers, regardless of the internal battery chemicals, will involve civil engineering work and filling materials such as soil, sand, gravel, concrete, or other aggregates that support the container while conducting heat from the outside to the surrounding underground area.

[0104] In certain applications, a Battery Management System (BMS) controls chargers, inverters, fans, or pumps to increase air / liquid flow throughout the battery and controls heat exchangers to mitigate thermal runaway. The BMS can also assist in thermal management by changing the pressure and charge / discharge rate of specific retainers / cells. The components of the BESS may be housed in the same container or in separate containers.

[0105] In another embodiment of the present invention, such as a flow battery (not shown), active internal cooling can be performed. In this embodiment (not shown), open-loop active cooling can be performed such that the electrolyte is sent to an external cooling unit (not shown), a heat exchanger, or other radiative cooling mechanism (not shown) to transfer heat from the electrolyte away from the internal energy storage container assembly. In closed-loop active cooling, internal channels, pipes, and piping can be installed to circulate a separate coolant to the inside of the battery, preventing it from mixing with the battery chemicals. Heat is transferred from the battery to the coolant, and then sent through the path of an external cooling unit, heat exchanger, or radiative cooling mechanism, where the heat is transferred to the atmosphere. Adding coolant introduces complexity, and using an electrolyte allows for the presence and circulation of more electrolyte, providing ion transfer benefits similar to those of a flow battery.

[0106] Various techniques / methods (not shown) for active cooling according to various embodiments of the present invention are as follows: 1. Air Jacket (Double-Walled Cylinder) - With all passive components installed, a double-walled structure can be implemented around the energy storage container, having ducts that force cooling air through the cowling and then through the radiating fins. In this case, the heated air will be discharged into the environment. 2. Liquid Cooling - Double Wall: With all components of the passive cooling system installed, the energy storage container is then surrounded by a watertight double wall. The liquid is pumped through the double-wall region and then through piping to a heat exchanger to dissipate heat. The battery management system (BMS) controls the coolant pump based on inputs from temperature and pressure sensors, as well as a relief mechanism. 3. Liquid Cooling - Circulating Coolant through Internal Flow Channels: Coolant is circulated through internal flow channels with vertical or longitudinal electrode retainers (Figure 8), or through internal flow channels without retainers, and then the fluid is sent to an external heat exchanger to dissipate heat into the atmosphere. Some battery chemicals, for example, in which the electrodes and electrolyte are solid, may circulate coolant using an insulating fluid in a closed-loop circuit, while in some designs, the electrolyte itself may be circulated and cooled.

[0107] With the development of existing and future ambient and non-ambient battery chemistry technologies, the demand for thermal management of the energy storage container 100 and its contents will continue to increase in order to achieve continuous and consistent battery performance, and perhaps even vehicle temperature or passenger comfort. The ability to thermally regulate the battery will be a limiting factor for certain battery chemistry when charge and discharge cycles are pushed to their limits to obtain optimal capacity, output, and efficiency. Not all battery chemistry installed in the energy storage container 100 requires cooling; some can function without cooling, some require passive cooling, and others require active cooling. In extreme cases, both passive and active cooling may be necessary to keep the battery chemistry operating within the intended temperature range. Pressure can be a limiting factor for battery chemistry and performance, and it should be noted that cooling will reduce the pressure in the energy storage container 100. Insulation and heating of the energy storage container 100 may also help maintain the appropriate temperature when a minimum temperature must be maintained to obtain adequate battery performance.

[0108] In another embodiment of the present invention (not shown), the energy storage container 100 can be thermally controlled using geological thermal management, which includes burying the long-term energy storage container 100 and BESS components underground. From the above, being large, container-style, and having a long lifecycle contributes to the claim that the energy storage container 100 and associated battery, capacitor, or fuel cell containers can be buried underground using passive and active methods. This embodiment eliminates the thermal management requirements for batteries regarding daytime, seasonal, solar heat, and radiant / conductive heat gains and losses. The stable temperature obtained just below the surface is more desirable and provides a stable environment for consistent regulation of the electrochemical reactions and capacitor cycles of any long-term, large, grid-sized energy storage device. In addition, the buried underground energy storage container 100 is more secure, the risk of war or terrorism is reduced, and exposure to natural disasters such as fire or extreme weather temperature events is reduced.

[0109] Figure 10 shows various diagrams of a metal-air battery 200 utilizing the energy storage container 100 of Figure 1. Existing metal-air batteries 200, consisting of any type (lithium, sodium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, aluminum, iron, or other metals), are electrochemical cells having a metal anode and an external cathode exposed to ambient air where reduction reactions occur. Typically, ambient air passes through the cathode, ions move through the electrolyte to the anode, and the cell is not pressurized at all. The energy storage container 100 provides interoperability between the battery system and battery chemicals and can constitute any existing metal-air chemical and be installed with both electrodes 140 pressurized or with only one electrode 140 pressurized. Figure 10 shows various diagrams of the metal-air battery 200, in which the metal anode 140, electrolyte, separator 160 (not shown), oxygen cylinder 250, oxygen manifold 260, and cathode 160 (catalyst layer, current collector (not shown), and gas diffusion layer) of the metal-air cell 142 are all integrated into the energy storage container 100, and it has all the pressure control, safety mechanisms, electrode expansion / contraction, clamping force, and temperature control of a typical primary and secondary thin-film battery. Pressure control, clamping force, and temperature control all provide a positive benefit to ionic conductivity, improve cycle life, and assist the catalyst during discharge and charge chemical reactions. Using pressure control, clamping force, and temperature control, corrosion of the metal anode 140 due to dendritic crystal formation can be prevented, which is known to lead to battery failure by forming an electrical short circuit between the electrodes 140. Pressure control, clamping force, and temperature control can also stabilize important intervening species that play a significant role in the lifecycle of the metal-air battery 200. For example, a key byproduct of lithium-air batteries is lithium superoxide, a compound formed during the battery cell cycle, which is known to react to form lithium peroxide. Lithium peroxide is known as a key component of battery storage. While gaseous electrolytes increase the ion diffusion rate, this is another significant limitation in current advanced metal-air battery technology.Furthermore, electrode retainers (130, 230) can be used to install the cathode 140 and anode 140, as well as any other iteration of the energy storage container 100 in which the battery chemicals are installed. A clear advantage of the pressurized environment is that it uses pure O2 or liquid O2 for the oxidation reaction, which significantly improves capacity, energy density, and power density compared to batteries with a typical ambient metal-air configuration. Supplying pure O2 or liquid O2 into the system overcomes performance variability associated with differences in oxygen concentration in the ambient air, providing consistent performance across many different environmental conditions. The closed-loop nature of the energy storage container 100 not only prevents environmental contamination of the electrodes 140 and diaphragm (membrane) 116, but also minimizes adverse effects from moisture or other contaminants being introduced into the system. O2 filters can also be implemented as an alternative to the closed-loop system to improve the quality of supplied O2, as well as to replenish the stockpile of pure O2.

[0110] Figure 11 shows various diagrams of a flow battery 300 utilizing the energy storage container 100 of Figure 1. Any existing flow battery 300 of any type (inorganic battery, organic battery, etc.) is an electrochemical battery having two tanks of liquid at ambient pressure, through which the liquid is delivered by passing it through two electrodes and through a selective membrane. The energy storage container 100 provides battery system and battery chemical interoperability so that any existing flow battery chemical can be configured and installed with both the anode and cathode liquid tanks pressurized, or with only one of them pressurized. Figure 11 shows various diagrams of the flow battery 300, in which the anode liquid tank 350, cathode liquid tank 360, cathode flow cell 380, anode flow cell 390, current collector (not shown), and ion-selective membrane are all pressurized within several container manifolds 370 or within a single integrated manifold with flow and pressure control. Safety mechanisms are integrated to prevent corrosive and toxic chemicals from contaminating the surrounding environment. A membrane manifold with expansion / contraction clamping force capabilities allows for various pressures and flow rates within the diaphragm (membrane). The tank can support one cell or any number (n) of cells in separate containers or within a single integrated container. Furthermore, electrode retainers (130, 230) can be used to accommodate any number or numerous cathode fluid or anode fluid active materials. A clear advantage of the pressurized environment is that liquid and / or gaseous electrolytes can be pressurized to achieve various flow rates, manifold pressures, and temperature conditions, thereby significantly improving performance, capacity, and system cycle life. Pressure control, clamping force, and temperature control offer clear advantages for the replacement of current collectors (not shown), electrodes 140, and expensive fluids that are also corrosive or toxic. For example, liquefied gases can be used as a substitute for conventional liquids, providing equivalent or enhanced performance at a lower cost and / or with little or no concern about corrosiveness or toxicity.

[0111] Figure 12 shows various diagrams of capacitors 400 and supercapacitor stacks 410 utilizing the energy storage container 100 of Figure 1. Any existing type of capacitor (fixed capacitor, variable capacitor, polarized capacitor, and non-polarized capacitor) 400 is a device that stores energy in an electric field, consisting of metal plates and a dielectric separating them. Ultracapacitors 400 (double-layer - electric double-layer capacitor, EDLC, or ultracapacitor, pseudocapacitor, or hybrid capacitor) store electrical energy between the surfaces of two electrode layers that maintain potential. The energy storage container 100 provides interoperability of capacitor systems and capacitor components so that any existing capacitor 400 can be configured and installed in the energy storage container 100 under vacuum or pressure to meet design requirements. Figure 12 shows various diagrams of capacitors 400 and supercapacitor stacks 410, where the conductors (graphite, carbon, and metal) and dielectrics (polymer separators, air, oil, and glass) are all pressurized within several cylindrical housings 110 in a bank, or within a single integrated cylindrical housing 110 having pressure control, safety mechanisms, cell expansion / contraction, and clamping forces for ordinary cylindrical housings 110 in appropriate places. The cylindrical housings 110 can support one capacitor 400 or any number (n) of capacitors 400 within separate cylindrical housings 110 or within the integrated cylindrical housing 110. The cylindrical housings 110 of the capacitors 400 can be arranged in series, parallel, or hybrid combinations to achieve various current discharges and potentials. Furthermore, electrode retainers (130, 230) can be used to install the capacitors 400, as well as any other iterations of the cylindrical housings 110 in which the battery chemistry is installed. A clear advantage of the cylindrical housing 110 of the capacitor 400 is that it can apply pressure / vacuum, clamp pressure, and cell expansion / contraction to the liquid / gas / solid dielectric and plate / electrode material that generates the electric field, thereby greatly improving the grid capacitor 400 for energy storage, output regulation, and power factor correction.Applying pressure / vacuum, clamping force, and cell expansion / contraction to a capacitor 400 or ultracapacitor 400 using an energy storage container 100 improves the Coulomb efficiency, dielectric strength, breakdown voltage, energy capacity, Q coefficient, power density, cycle life, leakage, and capacitance instability of typical ambient and vacuum capacitors 400. Known ultracapacitors 400 in advanced technology are currently limited in their storage capacity by the electrochemical performance of the current electrolyte and active materials of the electrodes 140. The energy density of the ultracapacitor 400 can be enhanced by increasing the effective surface area of ​​the electrode material 140 within the double-layer capacitor 400 and / or by increasing the operating voltage window. Pressure control, clamping force, and temperature control improve electrolyte stability, enabling operation at higher voltages and for longer periods, resulting in higher energy densities than batteries. Operating the ultracapacitor 400 at high voltages reduces the number of series connections, decreasing the need for high-current charging and discharging in applications, reducing overcharging, and leading to a significant extension of device life.

[0112] Figure 13 shows various diagrams of a fuel cell container 500 utilizing the energy storage container 100 of Figure 1. Existing fuel cell containers 500 (polymer electrolyte membrane, i.e., PEM; alkaline fuel cell, i.e., AFC; phosphate fuel cell, i.e., PAFC; molten carbonate fuel cell, i.e., MCFC; solid oxide fuel cell, i.e., SOFC) supply electrical energy when fuel (usually hydrogen) is supplied. By definition, a fuel cell container 500 is not a battery, but for a typical type of fuel cell container 500, it may be beneficial to pressurize one electrode (anode or cathode) or both electrodes (anode and cathode) of the fuel cell container 500 system to increase the efficiency of the electrochemical reaction between hydrogen fuel and oxygen. Figure 13 shows various diagrams of a fuel cell container 500 including an oxygen tank 550, a fuel cell 560, a hydrogen tank 570, and multiple manifold lines 580. The fuel cell container 500 offers pressurization configurations, the incorporation of safety systems, and improvements to all the basic chemical pathways provided by the installed energy storage container 100. The sealed and pressurized environment for the reaction in the fuel cell container 500 allows for more efficient utilization of excess hydrogen, as protons move across the proton exchange membrane and electrons move to the cathode through an external circuit that provides a load. In the case of a pressurized cathode 140, the frequency of interaction between protons and oxygen increases, leading to more reactions and improved fuel utilization efficiency of the device. Pressurizing the cathode 140 with filtered compressed air or pure O2 improves the performance of the fuel cell container 500. Controlling the container environment also minimizes moisture and other contaminants, preventing degradation and side reactions of the cathode 140. In a fully pressurized system, hydrogen can be completely consumed. Pressurized air or pure O2 (gas or liquid) completely oxidizes the hydrogen to produce water, which exits through the water outlet 562 with protons present. Some of the water produced in the cathode can be drained or retained inside the cylindrical housing 110 to control humidity. Because the electrochemical reaction of the fuel cell container 500 is exothermic, there is an opportunity for cogeneration to extract heat for thermal energy applications.

[0113] Figure 14 shows various diagrams of a reversible fuel cell 600 utilizing the energy storage container 100 of Figure 1. The regenerative or reversible fuel cell container 600 (RFC) exhibits large-scale, long-term battery performance, similar to other electrochemical energy storage devices. Because the energy storage container 100 provides fuel cell system and fuel cell chemical interoperability, any existing reversible fuel cell 600 can be configured and installed in the energy storage container 100 under vacuum or pressure to meet the required design requirements. Figure 14 illustrates a unitized regenerative / reversible fuel cell 600 (URFC) including an oxygen tank 650, a hydrogen tank 670, and multiple manifold lines 680. Furthermore, a replenishment manifold 690 and a hydrolysis chamber 692 are provided. All chemicals are pressurized either within several energy storage containers 100 or stacks, or within a single integrated energy storage container 100 that has all the pressure control and safety mechanisms, cell expansion / contraction, and clamping force for a typical battery-type container. The URFC600 performs electrolysis as an electrolytic cell with bidirectional capabilities for reverse electrolysis. The electrolysis process can be reversed to convert water into steam by using the cogeneration of heat as a byproduct of the exothermic reaction in which hydrogen is oxidized by O2. Efficiency losses can be overcome by electrically "charging" the URFC600 to its decomposition voltage and overpotential voltage using an external power source. The energy storage container 100 can support one URFC600 or any number (n) of URFC600s within separate energy storage containers 100 or an integrated stack. The fuel cell stacks and containers can be arranged in series, parallel, or series-parallel to obtain the desired voltage or current output. Furthermore, the electrode retainers (130, 230) can be used as a systematic method for installing various fuel cell catalysts, PEMs, and fuel materials, as well as any other iteration of an energy storage container in which battery chemicals are installed.A clear advantage of the internal environment of the fuel cell and stack is that pressurization / vacuum can be applied to the liquid / gas / solid and electrode materials 140 that generate electron flow and proton exchange, thereby greatly improving the RFC600 for energy storage. By applying positive pressure or vacuum to the fuel cell or regenerative fuel cell 600 having an energy storage container 100, the shortcomings of conventional fuel cells are addressed by improving the round-trip Coulomb efficiency, energy and power capacity. A renewable energy storage supply is created by reusing hydrogen and oxygen in the system, which is supplied by charging fuel through electrolysis using surplus thermal energy and surplus grid energy. Reusing hydrogen eliminates the need for refueling and the associated risks. Due to the closed-loop nature of the URFC600, there is also no need to generate more new hydrogen for use as fuel.

[0114] In various embodiments (not shown), the energy storage container 100, metal-air battery 200, flow battery 300, capacitor 400, fuel cell container 500, and reversible fuel cell 600 have appropriate electrical connectors, sensors, and component mounts to support the operation and functionality of the BMS (Battery Management System) and SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition). Other remote sensing, battery management, remote control, and automatic functions of the battery can be performed through the connection and mounting locations.

[0115] In various embodiments (not shown), the energy storage container 100, metal-air battery 200, flow battery 300, capacitor 400, fuel cell container 500, and reversible fuel cell 600 have suitable electrical connection points for DC-AC inverters, DC-DC converters, and other methods of connecting to power grids, distribution grids, microgrids, legacy power plants, hydrogen production facilities, and renewable power plants. The connection points provided are not limited to connections to the above-mentioned facilities and devices, but may also connect to additional loads and power generation devices.

[0116] While the present invention has been described in terms of exemplary embodiments, it should be noted that the terms used are descriptive and not limiting. As those skilled in the art will understand, various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the following claims, and the claims should be given a complete and fair scope.

[0117] Various components and parts of various embodiments of the energy storage container 100, metal-air battery 200, flow battery 300, capacitor 400, fuel cell container 500, and reversible fuel cell 600 of the present invention are similar and interchangeable. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various components and parts of the energy storage container 100 of the present invention can be considered for the metal-air battery 200, flow battery 300, capacitor 400, fuel cell container 500, and reversible fuel cell 600 with little or no modification.

[0118] Finally, while the present invention has been described above with reference to various exemplary embodiments, many changes, combinations, and modifications may be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, various components may be implemented in alternative ways. These alternatives can be appropriately selected depending on the particular application or taking into account any number of factors related to the operation of the device. In addition, the techniques described herein may be extended or modified for use with other types of devices. These changes or modifications, and other changes or modifications, are intended to fall within the scope of the invention.

[0119] Clause 1. Energy storage container comprising: a cylindrical housing configured to enclose electrodes and store an electrolyte at a pressure higher than ambient pressure or lower than ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other; a pair of end caps provided at the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, the pair of end caps configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps including a pressure relief valve; and a diaphragm positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding ends of the cylindrical housing.

[0120] The energy storage container according to Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from two opposing ends of a cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

[0121] The energy storage container described in Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce a fluid or gas into the corresponding end cap.

[0122] Clause 4. An energy storage container as described in Clause 1, configured to be installed below the surface for geothermal management of the energy storage container.

[0123] Clause 5. An energy storage container as described in Clause 1, configured for use with at least one of the following: an electrochemical battery cell, a lithium-ion battery, an intercalation battery, a metal-air battery, a flow battery, a fuel cell, a reversible fuel cell, and a capacitor.

[0124] The energy storage container according to Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of a cylindrical housing.

[0125] The energy storage container according to Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps is removably connected to the corresponding end of a cylindrical housing.

[0126] The energy storage container described in Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from a pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

[0127] The energy storage container described in Clause 1, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from a pair of end caps are measurably the same.

[0128] Clause 10. An overpressure fail-safe mechanism and chemical substance retention method for an energy storage container, comprising: a pressure relief valve located in the container; and an envelope or receptacle connected downstream of the pressure relief valve, configured to be filled with the liquid / gas contents of the energy storage container, wherein the overpressure fail-safe mechanism is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode depending on the pressure of the contents of the container, wherein in the first mode, the pressure relief valve releases at least a portion of the contents of the container into the envelope or receptacle; in the second mode, the envelope or receptacle meters and releases at least a portion of the contents of the envelope or receptacle into the atmosphere to prevent the envelope or receptacle from rupturing or failing, and the second mode is activated only if, after the first mode has been activated, the pressure of the contents released into the envelope or receptacle exceeds a third set pressure.

[0129] Clause 11. An overpressure fail-safe mechanism as described in Clause 10, which is automatically activated only when the pressure of the contents of the container exceeds a second set pressure.

[0130] Clause 12. The overpressure fail-safe mechanism described in Clause 10, further comprising a pressure relief valve configured to measure and release at least a portion of the contents of the container into the atmosphere if the pressure of the contents released into the envelope exceeds a third set pressure.

[0131] Clause 13. An electrode retainer comprising: an inner slip-fit ​​retaining element having a plurality of wavy holes to enable the circulation of an electrolyte; an outer slip-fit ​​retaining element having a plurality of wavy holes to enable the circulation of an electrolyte; and an internal cavity defined between the inner slip-fit ​​retaining element and the outer slip-fit ​​retaining element to support the placement of at least one electrode.

[0132] Clause 14. The electrode retainer according to Clause 13, wherein at least one electrode separator is positioned between at least one pair of electrodes.

[0133] Clause 15. The electrode retainer according to Clause 13, wherein at least one pair of electrodes are selected from the group including cylindrical cells, pouch cells, vertical thin-film electrodes, wafer electrodes, and disk electrodes.

[0134] Clause 16. An electrode retainer according to Clause 13, wherein electrodes selected from at least one pair of electrodes are arranged parallel to each other.

[0135] Clause 17. An electrode retainer comprising a plurality of tubes arranged substantially parallel to each other and spaced apart from each other; a cathode located in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes; an anode located in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes; and at least one fluid flow located in the space formed between the plurality of tubes, the fluid flow comprising at least one of a coolant and / or an electrolyte.

[0136] Clause 18. An electrode retainer as described in Clause 17, wherein multiple tubes are connected to each other to form a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0137] Clause 19. An electrode retainer according to Clause 17, wherein the cathode and / or anode are formed in a shape including a square tube, a cylindrical rod, a hexagonal shaft, a rectangular pipe, and an elliptical pipe, and can accommodate a jelly roll electrode, a laminated wafer, a cell, or other electrode.

[0138] Clause 20. Energy storage container comprising a cylindrical housing configured to enclose electrodes and store an electrolyte at a pressure higher or lower than ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other, a pair of end caps provided at the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, each end cap selected from the pair of end caps including a pressure relief valve, and a diaphragm positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing, the energy storage container configured to be installed above or below the ground surface for geological thermal management of the energy storage container.

[0139] The energy storage container according to Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from two opposing ends of a cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

[0140] The energy storage container described in Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce fluid into the corresponding end cap.

[0141] Clause 23. An energy storage container as described in Clause 20, configured to be installed below the surface for geothermal management of the energy storage container.

[0142] Clause 24. An energy storage container as described in Clause 20, configured for use in electrochemical battery cells, lithium-ion batteries, intercalation batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, fuel cells, reversible fuel cells, and capacitors.

[0143] An energy storage container according to Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of a cylindrical housing.

[0144] The energy storage container according to Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps is removably connected to the corresponding end of a cylindrical housing.

[0145] The energy storage container described in Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from a pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

[0146] The energy storage container described in Clause 20, wherein each end cap selected from a pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from a pair of end caps are the same to a measurable degree.

Claims

1. An energy storage container, A cylindrical housing configured for enclosing electrodes and storing an electrolyte at a pressure higher than ambient pressure or lower than ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other, A pair of end caps provided at opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, the pair of end caps configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, and each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve. A diaphragm positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing, Energy storage containers, including those containing energy storage.

2. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from the two opposing ends of the cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

3. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce a fluid or gas into the corresponding end cap.

4. The energy storage container according to claim 1, configured to be installed below the ground surface for geothermal thermal management of the energy storage container.

5. An energy storage container according to claim 1, configured for use in at least one of an electrochemical battery cell, a lithium-ion battery, an intercalation battery, a metal-air battery, a flow battery, a fuel cell, a reversible fuel cell, and a capacitor.

6. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing.

7. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is removably connected to the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing.

8. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

9. The energy storage container according to claim 1, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressure of the pressure relief valve of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is measurably the same.

10. An overpressure fail-safe mechanism and chemical substance storage method for an energy storage container, A pressure relief valve located in the container, An envelope or receptacle connected downstream of the pressure relief valve, the envelope or receptacle configured to be filled with the liquid / gas contents of the energy storage container, This includes, The overvoltage fail-safe mechanism is configured to operate in either a first mode or a second mode depending on the pressure of the contents of the container, In the first mode, the pressure relief valve releases at least a portion of the contents of the container into the envelope or receptacle. In the second mode described above, in order to prevent the envelope or receptacle from rupturing or failing, the envelope or receptacle measures and releases into the atmosphere at least a portion of the contents of the envelope or receptacle. An overpressure fail-safe mechanism and chemical substance retention method, wherein the second mode is activated only if, after the first mode has been activated, the pressure of the contents released into the envelope or receptacle exceeds a third set pressure.

11. The overpressure fail-safe mechanism according to claim 10, which is automatically activated only when the pressure of the contents of the container exceeds a second set pressure.

12. The overpressure fail-safe mechanism according to claim 10, further comprising a pressure relief valve configured to measure and release into the atmosphere at least a portion of the contents of the container when the pressure of the contents of the released envelope exceeds a third set pressure.

13. It is an electrode retainer, An internal sliding-fit retaining element containing multiple wavy holes that enable electrolyte circulation, An outer sliding-fit retaining element containing multiple wavy holes that enable electrolyte circulation, An internal cavity is defined between the inner sliding retaining element and the outer sliding retaining element, supporting the installation of at least one electrode. Electrode retainer, including.

14. The electrode retainer according to claim 13, wherein at least one electrode separator is disposed between at least one pair of electrodes.

15. The electrode retainer according to claim 13, wherein at least one pair of electrodes are selected from the group including cylindrical cells, pouch cells, vertical thin-film electrodes, wafer electrodes, and disk-shaped electrodes.

16. The electrode retainer according to claim 13, wherein the electrodes selected from at least one pair of electrodes are arranged parallel to each other.

17. It is an electrode retainer, A plurality of tubes arranged substantially parallel to each other, wherein the plurality of tubes are spaced apart from each other, A cathode is placed in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes, an anode located in at least one tube selected from the plurality of tubes, and at least one fluid flow located in the space formed between the plurality of tubes, the fluid flow including at least one of a coolant and / or an electrolyte, Electrode retainer, including.

18. The electrode retainer according to claim 17, wherein the plurality of tubes are connected to each other to form a substantially cylindrical shape.

19. The electrode retainer according to claim 17, wherein the cathode and / or anode is formed in a shape including a square tube, a cylindrical rod, a hexagonal shaft, a rectangular pipe, and an elliptical pipe, and can accommodate a jelly roll electrode, a laminated wafer, a cell, or other electrode.

20. An energy storage container, A cylindrical housing configured for enclosing electrodes and storing an electrolyte at a pressure higher or lower than ambient pressure, the cylindrical housing including two opposing ends spaced apart from each other, A pair of end caps provided at opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, the pair of end caps configured to seal the opposing ends of the cylindrical housing, and each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve. A diaphragm positioned between each end cap selected from the pair of end caps and the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing, Includes, An energy storage container configured to be installed above or below the ground surface for geothermal thermal management of the energy storage container.

21. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a flange, and each end selected from the two opposing ends of the cylindrical housing includes an opposing flange.

22. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure port configured to introduce fluid into the corresponding end cap.

23. The energy storage container according to claim 20, configured to be installed below the ground surface for geothermal thermal management of the energy storage container.

24. An energy storage container according to claim 20, configured for use in electrochemical battery cells, lithium-ion batteries, intercalation batteries, metal-air batteries, flow batteries, fuel cells, reversible fuel cells, and capacitors.

25. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is fixedly connected to the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing.

26. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is removably connected to the corresponding end of the cylindrical housing.

27. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressures of the pressure relief valves of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps are measurably different from each other.

28. The energy storage container according to claim 20, wherein each end cap selected from the pair of end caps includes a pressure relief valve, and the set pressure of the pressure relief valve of each end cap selected from the pair of end caps is measurably the same.

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