Acoustic devices for electrochemical cells

Abstract

In one aspect, the present disclosure provides an acoustic device configured for use with an electrochemical cell, the acoustic device comprising: an acoustic wave generator configured to generate and stream acoustic waves into the electrochemical cell for improving a performance of the electrochemical cell, wherein the electrochemical cell is selected from the group consisting of a solid-state or semi-solid-state battery, a fuel cell, an electrolyzer, a flow battery, and a metal-air battery.

Description

ACOUSTIC DEVICES FOR ELECTROCHEMICAL CELLSCROSS REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 599,730, filed November 16, 2023, which is entirely incorporated herein by reference.BACKGROUND

[0002] Traditional electrochemical cells often suffer from impedance-related issues which lead to reduced efficiency and compromised cell longevity. This may be due to the uneven availability of mobile species, e.g., cations and anions, which may cause suboptimal ionic concentration gradients and an inconsistent electrode surface potential. Such irregularities can hinder mass transport, diminish kinetic rates, and lead to concentration polarization effects, which may adversely affect overall performance of the electrochemical cell.SUMMARY

[0003] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides an acoustic device configured for use with an electrochemical cell, the acoustic device comprising: an acoustic wave generator configured to generate and stream acoustic waves into the electrochemical cell for improving a performance of the electrochemical cell, wherein the electrochemical cell is selected from the group consisting of a solid-state or semi-solid-state battery, a fuel cell, an electrolyzer, a flow battery, and a metal -air battery.

[0004] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic device is coupled to an exterior surface of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic device is coupled to an interior surface of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the group further consists of a lithium-ion battery. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the group further consists of a lithium metal battery. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the group further consists of a non-lithium based battery. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the non-lithium based battery comprises a sodium battery or a sodium ion battery. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the group further consists of a capacitor. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the electrochemical cell comprises an anode and a cathode separated by an ionically conductive bridge.

[0005] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acousticwaves are configured to reduce a bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell by promoting mobility, availability, and / or uniformity in distribution of ionic species within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell is reduced by at least 1% or more compared to another electrochemical cell that is operated without the acoustic waves.

[0006] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are configured to facilitate or increase mass transport within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are configured to enhance a kinetic rate of reactions within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are configured to provide micro-stirring effects of ionic species within the electrochemical cell.

[0007] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are customized or tuned based at least in part on a type, capacity, function, shape, size, form factor and / or operating conditions of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves comprise at least one of the following: surface acoustic waves (SAW), Lamb waves, flexural waves, thickness mode vibrations, mixed-mode waves, longitudinal waves, shear mode vibrations, bulk wave vibrations, or any combination(s) thereof. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, acoustic waves have a frequency ranging from 10 Hz to 500 MHz. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves have a power ranging from 0.1 mW to 500 MW. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves have one or more waveforms selected from the group consisting of a continuous sine wave, square wave, and triangular wave. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are generated with on / off pulsing ranging from 0% to 100%. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the acoustic waves are generated with a timescale period ranging from about 1 microsecond to about 1 millisecond.

[0008] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the performance of the electrochemical cell is based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the performance of the electrochemical cell is based on one or more of the following: energy capacity, power capability, charging rate, operating life, reliability, and / or safety.

[0009] In some embodiments of any one of the acoustic devices disclosed herein, the electrochemical cell is an electrolyzer, and the performance of the electrochemical cell is based on a hydrogen generation rate of the electrolyzer.

[0010] In an aspect, the present disclosure provides an electrochemical system comprising: the acoustic device and the electrochemical cell disclosed herein; and one or more sensors configured to monitor the performance of the electrochemical cell.

[0011] In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system further comprises one or more controllers configured to dynamically adjust one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves, based on the monitored performance of the electrochemical cell by the one or more sensors. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the one or more controllers are configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the one or more controllers are configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves to optimize the performance of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the one or more characteristics comprise a type, frequency, amplitude, duration, and / or pulsing mode or pattern of the acoustic waves.

[0012] In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system comprises a plurality of acoustic devices and a plurality of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system comprises a plurality of electrochemical modules, wherein an electrochemical module comprises a plurality of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the plurality of acoustic devices is configured to enhance a performance of the plurality of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the plurality of acoustic devices is distributed throughout the system and is configured to ensure consistent performance enhancement across the plurality of electrochemical cells.

[0013] In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system further comprises a plurality of signal drivers configured to generate electrical signals for operating the plurality of acoustic devices. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system further comprises an electrochemical management system (EMS). In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the electrochemical management system comprises a feedback loop. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parametersemitted by the plurality of signal drivers to the plurality of acoustic devices based on realtime performance data of the plurality of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parameters emitted by the plurality of signal drivers based on the State-of- Charge, State-of-Health, State-of-Power, State-of-Function, Voltage, Current, or Temperature. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parameters emitted by the plurality of signal drivers to the plurality of acoustic devices based on real-time performance data or based on predefined performance criteria for the plurality of electrochemical cells.

[0014] In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the system further comprises feedback circuits to provide the EMS with the real-time performance data. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the feedback circuits are integrated with the one or more sensors distributed within the electrochemical system. In some embodiments of any one of the systems disclosed herein, the EMS is configured to utilize machine learning algorithms to optimize the operation of the plurality of signal drivers and the plurality of acoustic devices based on historical and real-time performance data.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0015] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0016] The novel features of the disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present disclosure will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0017] FIG. 1A shows an acoustic device operatively coupled to an electrochemical device or cell, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0018] FIG. IB shows a configuration of an electrochemical cell and an acoustic device coupled to an interior of the electrochemical cell, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0019] FIG. 1C shows a configuration of an electrochemical cell and an acoustic device coupled to an exterior of the electrochemical cell, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0020] FIGS. 2A-2D show exemplary configurations of acoustic device coupled to an electrochemical cell, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0021] FIG. 3A shows an example of a plurality of acoustic devices coupled to an interior of a device comprising a plurality of electrochemical cells, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0022] FIG. 3B shows an example of a plurality of acoustic devices coupled to an exterior of a device comprising a plurality of electrochemical cells, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0023] FIG. 3C shows an example electrochemical module, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0024] FIG. 3D shows an example electrochemical system, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0025] FIG. 3E shows another example electrochemical module, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0026] FIG. 3F shows another example electrochemical system, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0027] FIG. 4 shows a schematic of an example fuel cell coupled with an acoustic device, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0028] FIG. 5 shows a computer system in communication with the acoustic devices and / or electrochemical cell, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0029] FIG. 6 shows an example electrochemical management system (EMS), according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0030] FIG. 7A shows an exemplary set up of a battery test with or without an acoustic wave device, according to some embodiments of the disclosure;

[0031] FIG. 7B shows the capacity of the testing cell (“With SAW”) and the control cell (“No SAW”) during the cycling, according to some embodiments of the disclosure; and

[0032] FIG. 7C shows the capacity retention of the testing cell (“With SAW”) and the control cell (“No SAW”) during the cycling, according to some embodiments of the disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] Provided herein are acoustic devices (e.g., acoustic wave devices) that can improve performance and lifetime of an electrochemical device. The electrochemical device can comprise one or more electrochemical cells. The acoustic device can generate and transmit acoustic waves that can enhance mobilization and movement of mobile species, e.g., cations and / or anions. The enhanced mobilization and movement of mobile species can lead to better distribution of the mobile species within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, cations and anions can be evenly available throughout the cell. In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can modulate the ionic concentration gradient for a more uniform distribution of the mobile species and prevent concentration polarization. This can ensure a more consistent flow of current through the cell, enhancing overall efficiency.

[0034] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can optimize a surface potential of one or more electrodes of the electrochemical device. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can achieve improved electrochemical reaction kinetics. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can achieve a substantial boost in cell efficiency and lifespan.Acoustic Device

[0035] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an acoustic device configured for use with an electrochemical cell, the acoustic device comprising: an acoustic wave generator configured to generate and stream acoustic waves into the electrochemical cell for improving a performance of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can be selected from the group consisting of a solid-state or semi-solidstate battery, a fuel cell, an electrolyzer, a flow battery, and a metal-air battery.

[0036] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may be coupled to an electrochemical cell having any form factor. FIG. 1A shows an acoustic device 102 operatively coupled to an electrochemical device 101 comprising one or more electrochemical cells. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can have a form factor of cylindrical, prismatic, or pouch. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may be configured to adapt to the shape, contours, and / or surface features of its surroundings. The orientation, location, number, and / or operation frequency of the acoustic device may be adjusted accordingly relative to the electrochemical cell in order to effectively agitate electrolyte over the electrochemical cell and / or electrodes, regardless of the form factor of the electrochemical cell.

[0037] An overpotential (r|ceii) of an electrochemical cell may be a combination of ohmic overpotential (electronic and ionic) (r|ohmic), kinetic overpotential (T]kinetic), and mass diffusion overpotential (r|mass diffusion). Ohmic overpotential relates to the impedance of the electrochemical cell and distribution of the mobile species. While kinetic overpotential is fundamentally related to the intrinsic rate of the electron transfer process, the availability (or lack) of species can indeed influence the observed overpotential in a system. Mass diffusion overpotential relates to the distribution and concentration gradient of the mobile species. Lower impedance, better availability and mobility, and more uniform distribution of the mobile species can achieve better performance of the electrochemical cell.

[0038] The acoustic device, disclosed herein, can emit tunable acoustic waves (e.g., specifically tuned acoustic waves) which can create microscale or nanoscale acoustofluidics in a mobile species of the electrochemical cell (e.g., micro-stirring effect). The acoustic waves can have a direct influence on the performance of electrochemical cells. The microstirring effect by the acoustic waves can enhance the mobility and movement of the mobile species. In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can lead to an even distribution of the mobile species, optimize the concentration gradient, and improve electrode surface potential. In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can enhance electrochemical reaction kinetics, ensuring that the reactions occur at the most optimal rate. The acoustic device can be tuned to emit acoustic waves of specific frequencies, amplitudes, and / or durations, making it adaptable to different electrochemical cell types and sizes.

[0039] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves generated by the acoustic device can reduce a bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell by promoting mobility, availability, and / or uniformity in distribution of mobile species within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell can be reduced by at least about 1%, at least about 2%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or more compared to another electrochemical cell that is operated without the acoustic waves.

[0040] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can facilitate or increase mass transport of the mobile species within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the mass transport rate of mobile species in the electrochemical cell can be increased by at least about 1%, at least about 2%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, or more compared to another electrochemical cell that is operated without the acoustic waves.

[0041] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can enhance a kinetic rate of reactions within the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the kinetic rate of reactions within the electrochemical cell can be increased by at least about 1%, at least about 2%, at least about 5%, at least about 10%, at least about 15%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, or more compared to another electrochemical cell that is operated without the acoustic waves.

[0042] In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be coupled to an interior surface of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be disposed at various locations at the interior of the electrochemical cell.

[0043] FIG. IB shows a configuration of an electrochemical cell and an acoustic device coupled to an interior of the electrochemical cell. The electrochemical cell comprises a cathode 122, an electrolyte 123, and an anode 124. The electrochemical cell is encased in an enclosure 121. The acoustic device 125 is also encased in the enclosure 121. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can comprise a separator.

[0044] In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be coupled to an exterior surface of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the acoustic device disposed at or coupled to an exterior of the electrochemical cell can have more flexibility in the design of the acoustic device in terms of the size, shape, contours, and / or surface features. FIG. 1C shows a configuration of an electrochemical cell and an acoustic device coupled to an exterior of the electrochemical cell. The electrochemical cell comprises a cathode 132, an electrolyte 133, and an anode 134. The electrochemical cell is encased in an enclosure 131. The acoustic device 135 is disposed outside of the enclosure 131. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be disposed at various locations at an exterior surface of a device. FIGS. 2A-2D show exemplary configurations of acoustic device 212 coupled to an electrochemical cell 211 where the acoustic device is at different locations at the external surface of the electrochemical cell, e.g., a cylindrical electrochemical cell, for example, at the bottom surface (FIGS. 2A and 2B), at the side surface (FIG. 2C), or at the top surface (FIG. 2D). The acoustic device can cover a big portion of the surface, e.g., FIG 2 A, or a small portion of the surface, e.g., FIG. 2B. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may be positioned relative to the electrochemical cell to direct acoustic waves to a specific region within the electrochemical cell.

[0045] In some embodiments, a plurality of electrochemical cells can be encased in a common enclosure to form an electrochemical device.

[0046] In some embodiments, a plurality of acoustic devices can be coupled to an interior of the electrochemical device. FIG. 3A shows an example of a plurality of acoustic devices coupled to an interior of an electrochemical device comprising a plurality of electrochemical cells. The electrochemical device may comprise a common enclosure 301 encasing a plurality of electrochemical cells, e.g., 300, 310, and 320 and a plurality of acoustic devices, e.g., 305, 315, and 325. The neighboring electrochemical cells may be separated by a bipolar plate, e.g., 311. An electrochemical cell 300 may comprise an anode 302, an electrolyte 303, and a cathode 304. An electrochemical cell of the plurality of electrochemical cells can be coupled to an acoustic device. For example, electrochemical cell 300 is coupled to acoustic device 305, and electrochemical cell 310 is coupled to acoustic device 315.

[0047] In some embodiments, a plurality of acoustic devices can be coupled to an exterior of the electrochemical device. FIG. 3B shows an example of a plurality of acoustic devices coupled to an exterior of an electrochemical device comprising a plurality of electrochemical cells. The electrochemical device may comprise a common enclosure 351 encasing a plurality of electrochemical cells, e.g., 350, 360, and 370 and a plurality of acoustic devices, e.g., 355, 365, and 375. The neighboring electrochemical cells may be separated by a bipolar plate, e.g., 361. An electrochemical cell 350 may comprise an anode 352, an electrolyte 353, and a cathode 354. An electrochemical cell of the plurality of electrochemical cells can be coupled to an acoustic device. For example, electrochemical cell 350 is coupled to acoustic device 355, and electrochemical cell 360 is coupled to acoustic device 365.Electrochemical Cell

[0048] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can be used in a solid-state or semisolid-state battery, a fuel cell, an electrolyzer, a capacitor, a supercapacitor, a flow battery, or a metal-air battery. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can be regularly shaped or irregularly shaped. In some embodiments, the electrochemical device can comprise at least one, at least two, at least three, at least four, at least five, at least six, at least seven, at least eight, at least nine, at least ten, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, or more electrochemical cells. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cells can comprise cylindrical, prismatic, or pouch cells.

[0049] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can be any type of battery including, for example, a lithium (Li) battery, a sodium (Na) battery, a potassium (K) battery, a copper (Cu) battery, a zinc (Zn) battery, a magnesium (Mg) battery, or a lithium ion battery.

[0050] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can comprise at least two electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can comprise an anode and a cathode. In some embodiments, the anode and the cathode can be separated by an ionically conductive bridge.

[0051] In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise Li. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a material selected from the group consisting of LiFePCh;LiFexMnyPO4, wherein x + y = 1; LiM^CU; LiNio.5Mn1.5O4; LiNixCoyMnzO2, wherein x + y + z = 1; LiCoO?; LiNixCoyAlzO2, wherein x + y + z = 1; and aLiNixCoyMnzO2'(l- a)Li2MnOs, wherein a is from 0 to 1 and x + y + z = l. In some embodiments, the cathode is Li-free. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a material selected from the group of oxides, fluorides, oxyfluorides, sulfur-based materials, and gases. In some embodiments, the cathode can be lithium containing intercalation chemistry-based or intercalation typelayered (e.g., involving transition metal oxides, transition metal phosphate, vanadium oxides, molybdenum oxides) for Li ion battery or Li metal battery. In some embodiments, the cathode can be sodium containing intercalation chemistry -based or intercalation type-layered (e.g., involving transition metal oxides, transition metal phosphate, iron hexacyanoferrate (prussian blue, prussian white), vanadium oxides, molybdenum oxides) for Na ion battery or Na metal battery. In some embodiments, the cathode can be potassium containing intercalation chemistry-based or intercalation type-layered (e.g., involving transition metal oxides, transition metal phosphate, iron hexacyanoferrate (prussian blue, prussian white), vanadium oxides, molybdenum oxides) for K ion battery or K metal battery. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a layered lithium intercalated transition metal oxides, lithium intercalated transition metal oxides, lithium intercalated phosphate, pre-lithiated sulfur, pre-lithiated multivalent metal fluorides, pre-lithiated multivalent metal sulfides, or pre-lithiated multivalent metal oxides. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a layered sodium intercalated transition metal oxide, sodium intercalated transition metal oxide, sodium intercalated phosphate, sodium intercalated iron hexacyanoferrate (prussian blue, prussian white), pre-sodiated sulfur, pre-sodiated multivalent metal fluorides, pre-sodiated multivalent metal sulfides, or pre-sodiated multivalent metal oxides. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a layered potassium intercalated transition metal oxide, potassium intercalated transition metal oxide, potassium intercalated phosphate, potassium intercalatediron hexacyanoferrate (prussian blue, prussian white), pre-potassiated sulfur, pre-potassiated multivalent metal fluorides, pre-potassiated multivalent metal sulfides, or pre-potassiated multivalent metal oxides.

[0052] In some embodiments, the anode can be a Li-containing material. In some embodiments, the Li-containing material can be Li metal foil, Li metal on Cu foil, Li metal on carbon substrate, Li metal on porous metal substrate, or Li metal on porous carbon substrate. In some embodiments, the anode may comprise an anode material, for example, graphite, graphene, Al, Cu, Si, Sn, SiOx, SnOx, P, lithium titanium oxide (LTO), hard carbon, or soft carbon, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell can comprise an electrolyte. In some embodiments, the electrolyte can be a nonaqueous electrolyte, an aqueous electrolyte (e.g., a water in salt electrolyte), a semi-solid electrolyte, a liquified gas electrolyte, or a polymer or polymer gel electrolyte. The electrolyte material can be a porous material, such that cations or charge carriers can diffuse through the electrolyte. For example, the electrolyte material can be a porous material with an average pore diameter suitable for Li ion diffusion. In some embodiments, the electrolyte salt can be LiPFe. In some cases, the electrolyte material can be an aqueous electrolyte, such as an ionic liquid. The ionic liquid can be a quaternary amine, such as imidazolium, NH , pyrrolidinium, or piperidinium. In some embodiments, a nonaqueous electrolyte may be present. In some embodiments, the nonaqueous electrolyte may comprise a carbonate, an ether, a phosphate, a sulfone, an ionic liquid, an amide, a ketone, an ester, an alcohol, or an aromatic, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the carbonate may comprise ethylene carbonate (EC), propylene carbonate (PC), or dimethyl carbonate (DMC), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the ether may comprise diethyl ether (DEE), tetrahydrofuran (THF), or dioxolane (DIOX), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the phosphate may comprise trimethyl phosphate (TMP), or triethyl phosphate (TEP), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the sulfone may comprise sulfolane, or 1,3 -propane sulfone, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the ionic liquid may comprise an imidazolium- based salt, or pyridinium-based salt, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the amide may comprise N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), or N-methylacetamide (NMA), or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the ketone may be acetone or 2,3 -butanedione. In some embodiments, the ester may be ethyl acetate or butyl acetate. In some embodiments, the alcohol may comprise methanol, ethanol, propanol, isopropanol, or butanol, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the nonaqueous electrolyte may comprise an aromatic solvent, such as toluene, or xylene, or combinations thereof.Lithium-ion Battery

[0053] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a lithium-ion battery. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a lithium metal battery. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a non-lithium based battery. In some embodiments, the non-lithium based battery may comprise a sodium battery or a sodium ion battery. In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a metal-air battery.

[0054] In some embodiments, the anode of the lithium-ion battery can comprise graphite, silicon, lithium metal, lithium oxide (e.g., lithium titanate), hard carbon, tin-cobalt alloy, or any combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the cathode of the lithium-ion battery can comprise metal, metal oxide, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the cathode of the lithium-ion battery can comprise magnesium iron silicate or olivine, magnesium aluminum oxide or spinel, lithium cobalt oxide, lithium manganese oxide, lithium iron phosphate, lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide, lithium nickel cobalt manganese aluminum oxide, lithium nickel cobalt aluminum oxide, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the ionically conducting bridge of the lithium-ion battery can comprise a separator with electrolyte that conducts Li+ions. In some embodiments, the electrolyte can comprise a lithium salt, e.g., lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPFe), lithium tetrafluorob orate (LiBF4), or lithium perchlorate (LiCICU). In some embodiments, the electrolyte can comprise an organic solvent that dissolves lithium salt and helps lithium ions travel or move. In some embodiments, the organic solvent can comprise ethylene carbonate, propylene carbonate, dimethyl carbonate, diethyl carbonate, or methyl ethyl carbonate. In some embodiments, the ionically conducting bridge of the lithium-ion battery can comprise polymers or polymer gels. In some embodiments, the polymers can comprise polyethylene oxide) (PEO), poly(acrylonitrile) (PAN), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) or poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVdF).Fuel Cell

[0055] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a fuel cell. The fuel cell can comprise an anode, a cathode, and an electrolyte. In some embodiments, the cathode can comprise a catalyst, e.g., nickel or platinum. In some embodiments, a first reactant can be fed into or provided to the cathode. In some embodiments, the first reactant can comprise oxygen, air, or oxygen with an inert gas (e.g., nitrogen) can be fed to the cathode of the fuel cell. In some embodiments, the anode can comprise a catalyst, e.g., platinum metal or platinum powder. In some embodiments, a second reactant may be fed to the anode. In someembodiments, the second reactant can comprise hydrogen, hydrogen mixture (e.g., with an inert gas), hydrocarbon (e.g., methane), hydrogen / hydrocarbon mixture, or hydrocarbon / inert gas mixture. In some embodiments, the electrolyte of a fuel cell can comprise aqueous alkaline solution (e.g., potassium hydroxide in water), ionomer, humic acid, carbonate salts, and / or phosphoric acid.

[0056] FIG. 4 shows a schematic of an example fuel cell coupled with an acoustic device. The fuel cell may comprise an anode 402, an electrolyte 403, and a cathode 404. The fuel cell may be encased in an enclosure 406. During operation, a reactant 401 (e.g., hydrogen or hydrogen mixture) can be fed to the anode 402 to convert to H+and a reactant 405 (e.g., oxygen or oxygen mixture) can be fed to the cathode 404, e.g., to react with H+to generate water. An acoustic device 415 can be operatively coupled to the fuel cell at the external surface of the enclosure 406. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may be operatively coupled to the fuel cell inside the enclosure.Electrolyzer

[0057] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise an electrolyzer. An electrolyzer may use electrical energy to split water to oxygen and hydrogen.

[0058] An electrolyzer can comprise an anode, a cathode, and an ion exchange membrane or a diaphragm disposed in between.

[0059] In some embodiments, an anode of an electrolyzer can comprise a metal, e.g., tantalum, ruthenium, niobium, titanium, iridium, zirconium, and silicon and alloys or oxides thereof. In some embodiments, a cathode of an electrolyzer can comprise a metal, e.g., platinum, nickel, or gold. In some embodiments, an ion exchange membrane can comprise a polymeric material. In some embodiments, the polymeric material can comprise polyarylene ether, polyolefin, polyphenylene, or halogenated polymers.Solid-state Battery

[0060] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a solid-state battery.

[0061] A solid-state battery can comprise a positive-electrode layer, a solid state electrolyte layer, and a negative-electrode layer.

[0062] In some embodiments, the solid-state electrolyte can comprise ceramics, lithium orthosilicate, glass, RbAg4l5, Lii.sAlo.sGei PO^s (LAGP), Lii.4Alo.4Tii.6 P04)3 (LATP), perovskite-type Li3XLa2 / 3-xTiO3 (LLTO), garnet-type Li6.4La3Zr1.4Tao.6O12 (LLZO) with metallic Li, or combinations thereof.

[0063] In some embodiments, the positive electrode layer can comprise a transition metal oxide, a transition metal phosphate, a transition metal sulfide mixed with elemental sulfur, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the positive electrode can comprise Li, Li- S, or LiCL. In some embodiments, the positive electrode layer can comprise a positiveelectrode active material and a complex hydride solid electrolyte. In some embodiments, the positive electrode layer can comprise a conductive additive and / or a binder. In some embodiments, the conductive additive can comprise carbon black, acetylene black, Ketjen black, or carbon fibers. In some embodiments, the positive electrode layer can comprise about 0.1 wt% to about 20 wt% conductive additives. In some embodiments, the binder can comprise polysiloxane, polyalkylene glycol, polyvinylidene fluoride, polytetrafluoroethylene, carboxymethylcellulose, styrene-butadiene rubber, polyacrylic acid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the positive electrode layer can comprise about 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% binders.

[0064] In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise a negative electrode active material. The negative electrode active material can comprise Li, In, Al, Si, Sn, alloys, hard carbon, soft carbon, graphite (e.g., highly oriented pyrolytic graphite), or mesocarbon microbead. In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise a solid electrolyte, a conductive additive, a binder, etc. In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise a complex hydride solid electrolyte. In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise about 10 wt% to 50 wt% solid electrolytes. In some embodiments, the conductive additive can comprise carbon black, acetylene black, Ketjen black, or carbon fibers. In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise about 0.1 wt% to about 20 wt% conductive additives. In some embodiments, the binder can comprise polysiloxane, polyalkylene glycol, polyvinylidene fluoride, polytetrafluoroethylene, carboxymethylcellulose, styrene-butadiene rubber, polyacrylic acid, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the negative electrode layer can comprise about 0.1 wt% to 10 wt% binders.Metal-air Battery

[0065] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may comprise a metal-air battery. In some embodiments, a metal-air battery may comprise a negative electrode capable of taking and releasing active metal ions, a positive electrode using oxygen as an electroactive material, and an electrolyte configured to conduct ions between the negative and positive electrodes. In some embodiments, the positive electrode may be porous. In someembodiments, the metal-air battery may comprise one or more phases. In some embodiments, at least one phase may comprise a liquid that at least partially fills the pores of the positive electrode. In some embodiments, the liquid may comprise an oxygen evolving catalyst (OEC) capable of evolving oxygen gas by oxidizing a metal oxide discharge product produced during discharge of the rechargeable metal -air battery. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise an inorganic anion. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise a halide (e.g., I"). In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise a pseudohalide. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise a polyoxometalate. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise a conjugated compound. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise an aromatic compound. In some embodiments, the OEC may comprise a heteroaryl compound comprising nitrogen, sulfur, oxygen, selenium, tellurium, or phosphorus.

[0066] In some embodiments, the positive electrode may comprise Li2O2, Li2O, Na2O2, Na2O, MgO, MgO2, CaO, CaO2, or a combination thereof.

[0067] In certain embodiments, the negative electrode can comprise lithium, sodium, potassium, zinc, magnesium, calcium, aluminum, or iron. In certain embodiments, the negative electrode may comprise one or more alloying materials selected from the group consisting of Si, Ge, Sn, Sb, Al, Mg, and Bi. In some embodiments, the negative electrode may comprise transition metal hydrides, transition metal nitrides, transition metal oxides, transition metal fluorides, transition metal sulfides, transition metal antimonides, or transition metal phosphides.

[0068] In some embodiments, a metal -air battery may comprise an aqueous, aprotic, mixed aqueous / aprotic, or solid electrolyte. In some embodiments, the electrolyte may comprise ethers, glymes (or glycol ethers), carbonates, nitriles, amides, amines, organosulfur solvents, organophosphorus solvents, organosilicon solvents, fluorinated solvents, ionic liquids, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the electrolyte may comprise a polymer, a glassceramic, or a solid-electrolyte interphase (SEI). In some embodiments, the electrolyte may comprise one or more additives. In some embodiments, the one or more additives may comprise anion receptors, cation receptors, or SEI formers.Acoustic Wave Characteristics

[0069] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves generated by the acoustic device may comprise at least one of the following: surface acoustic waves (SAW), Lamb waves, flexural waves, love waves, thickness mode vibrations, mixed-mode waves, longitudinal waves, shear mode vibrations, bulk wave vibrations, or any combination(s) thereof.

[0070] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves generated by the acoustic device may propagate through an electrolyte filling the interior of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may agitate the electrolyte, thereby homogenizing the distribution of mobile species, e.g., cations or anions, in the electrolyte during the charging of the electrochemical cell. Homogenizing the distribution of the mobile species in the electrolyte may decrease the concentration gradient of the mobile species in the electrolyte such that the mobile species are distributed more evenly throughout the electrolyte. The homogenization of the distribution of the mobile species may increase the uniformity of the deposits of the mobile species on at least one of the electrodes.

[0071] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves can be customized or tuned based at least in part on a type, capacity, function, shape, size, form factor and / or operating conditions of the electrochemical cell.

[0072] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may have a frequency ranging from 10 hertz (Hz) to 500 megahertz (MHz). In some embodiments, the frequency of the acoustic waves can range from about 10 Hz to about 100 Hz, from about 10 Hz to about 1 kilohertz (kHz), from about 10 Hz to about 10 kHz, from about 10 Hz to about 100 kHz, from about 10 Hz to about 1 MHz, from about 10 Hz to about 100 MHz, from about 10 Hz to about 500 MHz, from about 100 Hz to about 1 kHz, from about 100 Hz to about 10 kHz, from about 100 Hz to about 100 kHz, from about 100 Hz to about 1 MHz, from about 100 Hz to about 100 MHz, from about 100 Hz to about 500 MHz, from about 1 kHz to about 10 kHz, from about 1 kHz to about 100 kHz, from about 1 kHz to about 1 MHz, from about 1 kHz to about 100 MHz, from about 1 kHz to about 500 MHz, from about 10 kHz to about 100 kHz, from about 10 kHz to about 1 MHz, from about 10 kHz to about 100 MHz, from about 10 kHz to about 500 MHz, from about 100 kHz to about 1 MHz, from about 100 kHz to about 100 MHz, from about 100 kHz to about 500 MHz, from about 1 MHz to about 100 MHz, from about 1 MHz to about 500 MHz, or from about 100 MHz to about 500 MHz.

[0073] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may have a power ranging from 0.1 milliwatts (mW) to 500 megawatts (MW). In some embodiments, the power of the generated acoustic waves can range from about 0.1 mW to about 1 mW, from about 0.1 mW to about 1 W, from about 0.1 mW to about 10 W, from about 0.1 mW to about 100 W, from about 0.1 mW to about 1 kilowatt (kW), from about 0.1 mW to about 10 kW, from about 0.1 mW to about 100 kW, from about 0.1 mW to about 1 MW, from about 1 mW to about 1 W, from about 1 mW to about 10 W, from about 1 mW to about 100 W, from about 1 mW to about 1 kW, from about 1 mW to about 10 kW, from about 1 mW to about 100 kW, from about 1mW to about 1 MW, from about 1 W to about 10 W, from about 1 W to about 100 W, from about 1 W to about 1 kW, from about 1 W to about 10 kW, from about 1 W to about 100 kW, from about 1 W to about 1 MW, from about 10 W to about 100 W, from about 10 W to about 1 kW, from about 10 W to about 10 kW, from about 10 W to about 100 kW, from about 10 W to about 1 MW, from about 100 W to about 1 kW, from about 100 W to about 10 kW, from about 100 W to about 100 kW, from about 100 W to about 1 MW, from about 1 kW to about 10 kW, from about 1 kW to about 100 kW, from about 1 kW to about 1 MW, from about 10 kW to about 100 kW, from about 10 kW to about 1 MW, or from about 100 kW to about 1 MW.

[0074] In some embodiments, the power of the generated acoustic waves can prevent the formation of metal deposits (e.g., Li deposits) without structurally perturbing the components within the electrochemical cell.

[0075] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may have one or more waveforms selected from the group consisting of a continuous sine wave, square wave, and triangular wave.

[0076] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may be generated with on / off pulsing ranging from 0% to 100%. In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may be generated with on / off pulsing ranging from about 0% to about 10%, from about 0% to about 20%, from about 0% to about 30%, from about 0% to about 40%, from about 0% to about 50%, from about 0% to about 60%, from about 0% to about 70%, from about 0% to about 80%, from about 0% to about 90%, from about 0% to about 100%, from about 10% to about 20%, from about 10% to about 30%, from about 10% to about 40%, from about 10% to about 50%, from about 10% to about 60%, from about 10% to about 70%, from about 10% to about 80%, from about 10% to about 90%, from about 10% to about 100%, from about 20% to about 30%, from about 20% to about 40%, from about 20% to about 50%, from about 20% to about 60%, from about 20% to about 70%, from about 20% to about 80%, from about 20% to about 90%, from about 20% to about 100%, from about 30% to about 40%, from about 30% to about 50%, from about 30% to about 60%, from about 30% to about 70%, from about 30% to about 80%, from about 30% to about 90%, from about 30% to about 100%, from about 40% to about 50%, from about 40% to about 60%, from about 40% to about 70%, from about 40% to about 80%, from about 40% to about 90%, from about 40% to about 100%, from about 50% to about 60%, from about 50% to about 70%, from about 50% to about 80%, from about 50% to about 90%, from about 50% to about 100%, from about 60% to about 70%, from about 60% to about 80%, from about 60% to about 90%, from about 60% to about 100%, from about 70% to about 80%, from about 70% to about 90%, from about 70% to about 100%,from about 80% to about 90%, from about 80% to about 100%, or from about 90% to about 100%.

[0077] In some embodiments, the acoustic waves may be generated with a timescale period ranging from about 1 microsecond (ps) to about 1 millisecond (ms). In some embodiments, the timescale period can range from about 1 ps to about 10 ps, from about 1 ps to about 50 ps, from about 1 ps to about 100 ps, from about 1 ps to about 250 ps, from about 1 ps to about 500 ps, from about 1 ps to about 750 ps, from about 1 ps to about 1 ms, from about 10 ps to about 50 ps, from about 10 ps to about 100 ps, from about 10 ps to about 250 ps, from about 10 ps to about 500 ps, from about 10 ps to about 750 ps, from about 10 ps to about 1 ms, from about 50 ps to about 100 ps, from about 50 ps to about 250 ps, from about 50 ps to about 500 ps, from about 50 ps to about 750 ps, from about 50 ps to about 1 ms , from about 100 ps to about 250 ps, from about 100 ps to about 500 ps, from about 100 ps to about 750 ps, from about 100 ps to about 1 ms, from about 250 ps to about 500 ps, from about 250 ps to about 750 ps, from about 250 ps to about 1 ms, from about 500 ps to about 750 ps, from about 500 ps to about 1 ms, or from about 750 ps to about 1 ms. In some embodiments, the timescale period can be about 1 ps, about 10 ps, about 50 ps, about 100 ps, about 250 ps, about 500 ps, about 750 ps, or about 1 ms.Performance Metrics

[0078] In some embodiments, the performance of the electrochemical cell may be based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell.

[0079] In some embodiments, the performance of the electrochemical cell may be based on one or more of the following: energy capacity, power capability, charging rate, charging time, operating life (or lifetime), reliability, and / or safety.

[0080] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase an energy capacity of an electrochemical cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0081] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase a power capability of an electrochemical cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, atleast about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0082] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase charging rate of an electrochemical cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0083] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may decrease charge time of an electrochemical cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0084] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase an electrochemical cell lifetime by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0085] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may retain a power capacity of an electrochemical cell at a level that is at least about 85%, at least about 90%, at least 95%, or at least about 99% of a new or fresh electrochemical cell, for at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more cycles as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0086] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase a power density of an electrochemical cell, e.g., a flow battery, by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0087] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may be an electrolyzer, and the performance of the electrochemical cell may be in part based on a hydrogen and / or oxygen generation rate of the electrolyzer. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase a hydrogen and / or oxygen generation rate of the electrolyzer by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another electrolyzer without the acoustic device.

[0088] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may be a fuel cell, and the performance of the electrochemical cell may be in part based on oxygen availability on the catalyst and / or water evacuation rate. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase oxygen availability on the catalyst of a fuel cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another fuel cell without the acoustic device. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may increase water evacuation rate of a fuel cell by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 100%, at least about 150%, at least about 200%, at least about 300%, at least about 400%, at least about 500%, at least about 600%, at least about 700%, at least about 800%, at least about 900%, at least about 1000%, or more as compared to another fuel cell without the acoustic device.

[0089] In some embodiments, the electrochemical cell may be a lithium-ion battery and the performance of the electrochemical cell may be in part based on the ability to prevent lithium plating on the electrode. In some embodiments, the acoustic device may decrease lithium plating by at least about 10%, at least about 20%, at least about 30%, at least about 40%, at least about 50%, at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, or more as compared to another electrochemical cell without the acoustic device.

[0090] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may improve safety and reliability by mitigating risks associated with the use of the electrochemical device, such as shorting and combustion of device components upon exposure to air and / or moisture.Integration and Control

[0091] In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides an electrochemical system comprising a plurality of acoustic devices and a plurality of electrochemical cells disclosed herein. The electrochemical system can comprise one or more sensors configured to monitor or modulate the performance of the plurality of acoustic devices and / or the plurality of electrochemical cells.

[0092] In some embodiments, harmonious and optimized operation of integrated assemblies such as modules, stacks, and full-system packs can enhance the performance of the electrochemical system. In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can scale up as multiple electrochemical cells can be integrated into a module, stack, or pack, and multiple modules, stacks, or packs can be integrated into the electrochemical system. In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise a network of acoustic devices configured to provide acoustic waves to all electrochemical cells of the electrochemical system to enhance the performance of all electrochemical cells.

[0093] In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 500, at least 1000, or more electrochemical cells.

[0094] In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise at least 1, at least 2, at least 3, at least 4, at least 5, at least 6, at least 7, at least 8, at least 9, at least 10, at least 20, at least 30, at least 40, at least 50, at least 60, at least 70, at least 80, at least 90, at least 100, at least 500, at least 1000, or more acoustic devices.

[0095] In some embodiments, an acoustic device of the plurality of acoustic devices can be operatively coupled to an electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, an acoustic device of the plurality of acoustic devices can be operatively coupled to multiple electrochemical cells of the plurality of electrochemical cells.

[0096] In some embodiments, the acoustic devices can be integrated into individual electrochemical devices. In some embodiments, the individual electrochemical devices can, in turn, be integrated into electrochemical systems. The format of the electrochemical cells can be cylindrical, pouch, prismatic or irregular types. In some cases, the acoustic devices canalso be integrated into electrochemical systems, such as batteries, which comprise a plurality of cells. For example, the acoustic device can be mounted onto a battery such that it provides acoustic waves to the plurality of battery cells within the battery. In some embodiments, the individual cells can be grouped together to form a pouch (e.g., a cell pouch or prismatic pouch), wherein the individual cells may be individually equipped an acoustic device. The cells within the pouches can be any battery cell, electrochemical cell, fuel cell (e.g., a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) or molten carbonate fuel cell (MCFC)), capacitor, or supercapacitor.

[0097] In some embodiments, a subset of the plurality of electrochemical cells can be integrated into a module, a stack, or a pack. In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise a plurality of modules, stacks, or packs.

[0098] In some embodiments, a stack of electrochemical cells can be operatively coupled to an acoustic device. The acoustic waves generated from the acoustic device can be transmitted to each of the electrochemical cells to enhance the performance of the each of the electrochemical cells.

[0099] In some embodiments, a stack of electrochemical cells can be operatively couples to a plurality of acoustic devices. The acoustic waves generated from the plurality of acoustic devices can be transmitted to each of the electrochemical cells to enhance the performance of the each of the electrochemical cells.

[0100] In some embodiments, the plurality of the acoustic devices can be coupled to an exterior surface of the stack of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments, the plurality of acoustic devices can be integrated between layers or components of the stack of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments, the plurality of acoustic devices can provide acoustic waves to all integrated cells. In some embodiments, the plurality of acoustic devices can provide localized acoustic waves to adjacent cells or modules.

[0101] In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise a network of acoustic devices distributed throughout the system or pack. The acoustic devices can be configured to enhance performance across all integrated cells, modules, or stacks.

[0102] FIG. 3C shows an example electrochemical module. The electrochemical module (pack or stack) 380 may comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells, e.g., electrochemical cell 381. The electrochemical cell 381 can be operatively coupled to an acoustic device, e.g., 382. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 382 can be placed exterior to the electrochemical cell 381. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 382 can be placed interior to the electrochemical cell 381.- 1 -

[0103] FIG. 3D shows an example electrochemical system. The electrochemical system 385 may comprise a plurality of electrochemical modules (packs or stacks) 380. The electrochemical module 380 can comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells as disclosed herein, e.g., electrochemical cell 381. The electrochemical cell 381 can be operatively coupled to an acoustic device as disclosed herein, e.g., acoustic device 382. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 382 can be placed exterior to the electrochemical cell 381. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 382 can be placed interior to the electrochemical cell 381.

[0104] FIG. 3E shows another example electrochemical module. The electrochemical module (pack or stack) 390 may comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells, e.g., electrochemical cell 391. The electrochemical cell 391 can be operatively coupled to an acoustic device, e.g., 392. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 392 can be placed exterior to the electrochemical cell 391. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 392 can be placed interior to the electrochemical cell 391.

[0105] FIG. 3F shows another example electrochemical system. The electrochemical system 395 may comprise a plurality of electrochemical modules (packs or stacks) 390. The electrochemical module 390 can comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells as disclosed herein, e.g., electrochemical cell 391. The electrochemical cell 391 can be operatively coupled to an acoustic device as disclosed herein, e.g., acoustic device 392. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 392 can be placed exterior to the electrochemical cell 391. In some embodiments, the acoustic device 392 can be placed interior to the electrochemical cell 391.

[0106] In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be integrated to the electrochemical device and disposed in the interior of the electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be integrated to the electrochemical device and disposed in the exterior of the electrochemical cell.

[0107] In some embodiments, the manufacturing of the acoustic device can be associated with the manufacturing of the electrochemical device. In some embodiments, the manufacturing of the acoustic device can be independent of the manufacturing of the electrochemical device. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be operatively coupled to the electrochemical device after the electrochemical device has been manufactured and assembled. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can be operatively removable from the electrochemical device.

[0108] In some embodiments, the acoustic device can couple to an existing electrochemical device. In some embodiments, the acoustic device can couple to a used electrochemical device.

[0109] In some embodiments, the acoustic device can comprise a plurality of acoustic wave generators configured in an array or matrix. In some embodiments, the plurality of acoustic wave generators can be configured to provide scalability in acoustic wave generation and distribution for larger electrochemical assemblies.

[0110] In some embodiments, the one or more sensors can be distributed throughout a module, stack, or pack. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors can be configured to monitor the performance of individual electrochemical cell and provide feedback for dynamic adjustment of acoustic wave characteristics. In some embodiments, the one or more sensors can be configured to monitor the performance of a group of electrochemical cells and provide feedback for dynamic adjustment of acoustic wave characteristics.[OHl] In some embodiments, the system can comprise one or more controllers. In some embodiments, the one or more controllers may be configured to dynamically adjust one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves, based on the monitored performance of the electrochemical cell, or a group of electrochemical cells, by the one or more sensors.

[0112] In some embodiments, the one or more controllers may be configured to dynamically adjust one or more characteristics of the electrochemical cells, based on the monitored performance of the electrochemical cell, or a group of electrochemical cells, by the one or more sensors.

[0113] In some embodiments, the one or more controllers may be configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell, or the group of electrochemical cells.

[0114] In some embodiments, the one or more controllers may be configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves to optimize the performance of the electrochemical cell, or the group of electrochemical cells.

[0115] In some embodiments, the one or more characteristics comprise a type, frequency, amplitude, duration, and / or pulsing mode or pattern of the acoustic waves.

[0116] In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise a plurality of signal drivers. In some embodiments, the plurality of signal drivers may be configured to generate electrical signals that can activate or generate the acoustic waves (or acoustic resonators). In some embodiments, a signal driver can provide electrical signals to all acoustic devices. In some embodiments, a signal driver can provide electrical signals to a subset of the plurality ofacoustic devices. In some embodiments, a signal driver can provide electrical signals to a subset of the plurality of acoustic devices that are operatively coupled to the electrochemical cells of a module of electrochemical cells. In some embodiments, the signal drivers can ensure the generated waves are consistent, uniform, and tailored to the electrochemical cell or electrochemical system.

[0117] In some embodiments, the electrochemical system can comprise an electrochemical management system (EMS). The EMS can comprise a feedback loop. In some embodiments, the EMS can comprise one or more sensors configured to measure or collect performance data from the electrochemical cell of the electrochemical system. In some embodiments, the EMS can comprise a plurality of feedback circuits configured to transmit the performance data to the EMS. In some embodiments, the performance data can be analyzed by the EMS. In some embodiments, based on the performance data, the EMS can adjust its commands to the signal drivers to optimize the electrical signal. In some embodiments, the EMS can be configured to dynamically compute and / or select the optimal electrical parameters emitted by the signal driver to the acoustic devices based on real-time performance data, e.g., performance metrics of the electrochemical cell or system.

[0118] In some embodiments, the EMS can be further configured to dynamically compute and / or select the electrical parameters emitted by the signal drivers to the acoustic devices based on predefined criteria for optimal electrochemical system performance.

[0119] In some embodiments, the performance data and / or predefined criteria can comprise State-of-Charge, State-of-Health, State-of-Power, State-of-Function, voltage, current, temperature, capacity, charge rate, charge time, discharge rate, or discharge time.

[0120] In some embodiments, the EMS can be configured to dynamically adjust the characteristics of the acoustic wave as a function of state-of-charge (SOC) to increase the ionic mobility. In some embodiments, SOC may refer to an actually available amount of charge in an energy device (Q) related to the maximum available amount of charge, which can be taken from the energy device after a 100% full charging (C) and can be expressed as a percentage: SOC = actually available amount of charge (Q) / maximum available amount of charge (C) x 100%. A x% SOC swing may refer to in discharge cycles, the energy device may be discharged to a capacity that is about x% of the starting capacity after the charging. In some embodiments, the EMS can be configured to dynamically adjust the characteristics of the acoustic wave as a function of temperature. In some embodiments, the EMS can be configured to dynamically adjust the characteristics of the acoustic wave as a function of state-of-power.

[0121] In some embodiments, the feedback circuits can be integrated with the sensors distributed within the electrochemical system. In some embodiments, the feedback circuits can be independent of the sensors and distributed within the electrochemical system.

[0122] In some embodiments, the EMS can comprise a battery management system (BMS) wherein the electrochemical cell is a battery. The BMS can be configured to dynamically compute and / or select the optimal electrical parameters emitted by the signal driver to the acoustic devices based on real-time performance data, e.g., performance metrics and / or predefined criteria of the batteries.

[0123] In some embodiments, the EMS can comprise an energy management system (EnMS) wherein the electrochemical cell is an energy storage device. The EnMS can be configured to dynamically compute and / or select the optimal electrical parameters emitted by the signal driver to the acoustic devices based on real-time performance data, e.g., performance metrics and / or predefined criteria of the energy storage device.

[0124] In some embodiments, the EMS can utilize machine learning algorithms to optimize the operation of the signal driver and the acoustic devices based on historical and real-time performance data.

[0125] FIG. 6 shows an example electrochemical management system (EMS). The EMS may be operatively coupled to an electrochemical system comprising a plurality of electrochemical modules, e.g., module 1, module 2, to module n. Each of the electrochemical module can comprise a plurality of electrochemical cells. The plurality of electrochemical cell can be coupled to a plurality of acoustic devices. Each of the module of the plurality of electrochemical modules can be connected to a signal driver. The EMS can communicate and send commands to the signal drivers to emit electrical signals. The electrical signals can generate acoustic waves in the acoustic devices. The electrochemical system can comprise a plurality of sensors configured to measure and / or detect performance data from the electrochemical cells. The electrochemical module can be operatively coupled to an electrochemical management board (EMB) configured to read output signals (corresponding to the performance data of the electrochemical cell) from the sensors and transmit the output signals back to the EMS. Based on the output signals from the sensors, the EMS can adjust the commands to the signal drivers to emit optimized electrical signals for the generation of optimized acoustic waves.Transducer

[0126] In some embodiments, the acoustic device may comprise a transducer configured to isolate the acoustic waves to a surface of the electrochemical cell, increase maximum vibrational amplitude for a given voltage signal, and / or generate a large vibrational amplitude at a relatively low frequency. In some embodiments, the transducer may be configured occupy minimal lateral space on the electrochemical device. In some embodiments, the transducer may comprise a conductive material. In some embodiments, the transducer may comprise a metal selected from the group consisting of titanium, aluminum, copper, chromium, gold, nickel, and / or tin. In some embodiments, the transducer may be patterned onto a substrate to form an acoustic device for various applications. In some embodiments, the transducer may be selected from the group consisting of interdigital transducer, thickness mode transducer, and lamb wave transducer. In some embodiments, the interdigital transducer may comprise a straight finger interdigital transducer (SIDT) or a focused interdigital transducer (FIDT). In some embodiments, the transducer can be deposited on a substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate can comprise at least a piezoelectric material. In some embodiments, the piezoelectric material can comprise lithium niobate (LiNbCh), lithium titanate (L^TiCh), barium titanate (BaTiCh), lead zirconate titanate (Pb(ZrxTii-x)O3 wherein (0 < x < 1)), quartz, zinc oxide, aluminum nitride (AIN), langasite, lead magnesium niobate-lead titanate (PMN-PT), lead-free potassium sodium niobate (Ko.sNao.sNbCh or KNN), a doped derivative of lead-free potassium sodium niobate, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF), or a combination thereof.

[0127] In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise 128-degree Y-rotated, X- propagating lithium niobate single crystal. In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise 41-degree lithium niobate single crystal. In some embodiments, the lithium niobate single crystal may comprise chemically reduced (e.g., black lithium niobate). In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise zinc oxide. In some embodiments, the zinc oxide may be deposited on a secondary substrate, e.g., silicon or polyamide. In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise aluminum nitride. In some embodiments, the aluminum nitride may be deposited on a secondary substrate, e.g., silicon or polyamide. In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise Lead Magnesium Niobate-Lead Titanate (PMN-PT). In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise a dual substrate. In some embodiments, the substrate may comprise lithium niobate single crystal grown on a carrier, e.g., sapphire.Computer Systems

[0128] The present disclosure provides computer systems that are programmed to implement methods of the disclosure. FIG. 5 shows a computer system 501 that is programmed or otherwise configured to control an output from a device, system or apparatus according to the embodiments disclosed herein. For example, the computer system 501 may be configured to control an output from an acoustic device or an electrochemical cell as described herein. The computer system 501 can regulate various aspects of generating acoustic waves of the present disclosure, such as, for example, frequency, wavelength, amplitude or power, types of waveforms. The computer system 501 can be an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is remotely located with respect to the acoustic device or acoustic module according to the disclosure. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device.

[0129] The computer system 501 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also “processor” and “computer processor” herein) 505, which can be a single core or multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The computer system 501 also includes memory or memory location 510 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 515 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 520 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 525, such as cache, other memory, data storage and / or electronic display adapters. The memory 510, storage unit 515, interface 520 and peripheral devices 525 are in communication with the CPU 505 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 515 can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 501 can be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 530 with the aid of the communication interface 520. The network 530 can be the Internet, an internet and / or extranet, or an intranet and / or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. The network 530 in some cases is a telecommunication and / or data network.

[0130] The network 530 can include one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 530, in some cases with the aid of the computer system 501, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system 501 to behave as a client or a server.

[0131] The CPU 505 can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 510. The instructions can be directed to the CPU 505, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 505 to implement methods of thepresent disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 505 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

[0132] The CPU 505 can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 501 can be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0133] The storage unit 515 can store files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 515 can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The computer system 501 in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system 501, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system 501 through an intranet or the Internet.

[0134] The computer system 501 can communicate with one or more remote computer systems through the network 530. For instance, the computer system 501 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user (e.g., personal health device, laptop, monitoring device, or any other device commonly used by a health practitioner). Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC’s (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephones, Smart phones (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system 501 via the network 530.

[0135] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 501, such as, for example, on the memory 510 or electronic storage unit 515. The machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the code can be executed by the processor 505. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit 515 and stored on the memory 510 for ready access by the processor 505. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 515 can be precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on memory 510.

[0136] The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processer adapted to execute the code or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[0137] Aspects of the systems and methods provided herein, such as the computer system 501, can be embodied in programming. Various aspects of the technology may be thought of as “products” or “articles of manufacture” typically in the form of machine (or processor)executable code and / or associated data that is carried on or embodied in a type of machine readable medium.

[0138] Machine-executable code can be stored on an electronic storage unit, such as memory (e.g., read-only memory, random-access memory, flash memory) or a hard disk. “Storage” type media can include any or all of the tangible memory of the computers, processors or the like, or associated modules thereof, such as various semiconductor memories, tape drives, disk drives and the like, which may provide non-transitory storage at any time for the software programming. All or portions of the software may at times be communicated through the Internet or various other telecommunication networks. Such communications, for example, may enable loading of the software from one computer or processor into another, for example, from a management server or host computer into the computer platform of an application server. Thus, another type of media that may bear the software elements includes optical, electrical and electromagnetic waves, such as used across physical interfaces between local devices, through wired and optical landline networks and over various air-links. The physical elements that carry such waves, such as wired or wireless links, optical links or the like, also may be considered as media bearing the software. As used herein, unless restricted to non-transitory, tangible “storage” media, terms such as computer or machine “readable medium” refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution.

[0139] Hence, a machine readable medium, such as computer-executable code, may take many forms, including but not limited to, a tangible storage medium, a carrier wave medium or physical transmission medium. Non-volatile storage media include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, such as any of the storage devices in any computer(s) or the like, such as may be used to implement the databases, etc. shown in the drawings. Volatile storage media include dynamic memory, such as main memory of such a computer platform. Tangible transmission media include coaxial cables; copper wire and fiber optics, including the wires that comprise a bus within a computer system. Carrier-wave transmission media may take the form of electric or electromagnetic signals, or acoustic or light waves such as those generated during radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) data communications. Common forms of computer-readable media therefore include for example: a floppy disk, a flexible disk, hard disk, magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, a CD-ROM, DVD or DVD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch cards paper tape, any other physical storage medium with patterns of holes, a RAM, a ROM, a PROM and EPROM, a FLASH-EPROM, any other memory chip or cartridge, a carrier wave transporting data or instructions, cables or linkstransporting such a carrier wave, or any other medium from which a computer may read programming code and / or data. Many of these forms of computer readable media may be involved in carrying one or more sequences of one or more instructions to a processor for execution.

[0140] The computer system 501 can include or be in communication with an electronic display 535 that comprises a user interface (UI) 540 for providing. Examples of UI’s include, without limitation, a graphical user interface (GUI) and web-based user interface.

[0141] Methods and systems of the present disclosure can be implemented by way of one or more algorithms. An algorithm can be implemented by way of software upon execution by the central processing unit 505.EXAMPLES

[0142] The following examples are provided to further illustrate some embodiments of the present disclosure, but are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure; it will be understood by their exemplary nature that other procedures, methodologies, or techniques known to those skilled in the art may alternatively be used.Example 1: Lithium-ion Battery Test

[0143] A conventional 18650 lithium-ion battery cell with a capacity of 2,500 mAh (control lithium-ion battery cell) was subjected to a cycling test to determine its efficiency and chargedischarge cycle performance. In parallel, an identical 18650 cell was equipped with the acoustic device.

[0144] The control lithium-ion battery cell exhibited a noticeable drop in efficiency after 300 cycles, with a capacity reduction of 20%. In contrast, the lithium-ion battery cell equipped with the acoustic wave device maintained over 90% of its initial capacity even after 500 cycles, showing the acoustic device’s ability to maintain ion availability and consistent electrode surface potential.Example 2: Solid-State Battery Test

[0145] Two solid-state batteries with the same specifications are tested, one without the acoustic device (control solid state battery) and the other equipped with the acoustic device. The solid-state battery with the acoustic device is estimated to exhibit a 15% higher discharge capacity, reflecting the improved ionic concentration gradient and optimal electrode surface potentials.Example 3: Fuel Cell Performance Test

[0146] A PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) fuel cell’s performance is tested with and without the acoustic device. The fuel cell equipped with the device is estimated to exhibit a 10% increase in power density and maintained consistent performance over longer durations, showing the device’s ability to optimize ion distribution and improve electrochemical reaction kinetics.Example 4: Electrolyzer Efficiency Test

[0147] Two electrolyzers are set up for water splitting. The one equipped with the acoustic device is expected to show a 12% increase in hydrogen production rate compared to its counterpart without an acoustic device, demonstrating the acoustic device’s capacity to enhance ion availability and boost overall cell performance.Example 5: Flow Battery Life Cycle Test

[0148] Vanadium redox flow batteries are tested for their charge-discharge cycles. The battery using the acoustic device is expected to show a slower degradation rate, with over 85% efficiency maintained after 600 cycles, whereas the battery with no acoustic device is estimated to drop to 70% efficiency after the same number of cycles. This shows the acoustic device’s ability to reduce concentration polarization effects and ensure a consistent flow of current.Example 6: Surface acoustic wave (SAW) improved cycling stability of Li ion batteries containing polymer gel electrolyte

[0149] This example illustrates that surface acoustic wave (SAW) improved the cycling stability of Li ion batteries containing polymer gel electrolyte.

[0150] A 225 mAh pouch cell with polymer gel electrolyte was selected to study the effect of SAW on its cycling stability. The cell had LiCoCE cathode and graphite anode. The testing cell was subject to charge-discharge cycling. A SAW device was coupled to the testing cell to apply acoustic waves to the testing cell. FIG. 7A shows an exemplary set up of the test. The SAW device 702 was coupled to the bottom of the pouch cell 701 (e.g., opposite to the tabs of the pouch cell). The SAW device generates acoustic waves with a frequency of 20 MHz. A control cell was subject to the same charge-discharge cycling but no SAW was applied to the control cell. In each charge-discharge cycle, the cells (the testing cell and control cell) were charged at 2.5 C constant current to 4.35 V, and the voltage was held at 4.35 V until the current dropped below C / 10. The cells were then discharged at C / 5 to 3.2 V. FIG. 7B showsthe capacity of the testing cell (“With SAW”) and the control cell (“No SAW”) during the cycling. The control cell showed fast degradation, and its capacity dropped to below 150 mAh within 20 cycles. As a comparison, the testing cell coupled with the SAW device had more stable cycling, and its capacity maintained over 150 mAh after 150 cycles.Example 7: SAW improved cycle life of anode free Li metal batteries containing liquid electrolyte

[0151] This example illustrates that SAW improved the cycle life of anode free Li metal batteries containing liquid electrolyte. A 200 mAh pouch cell with customized liquid electrolyte was selected to study the effect of SAW on its cycling stability. The cell had LiNio.8Coo.1Mno.1O2 (NMC811) cathode and was anode free. The testing cell was subject to charge-discharge cycling. A SAW device was coupled to the testing cell (e.g., FIG. 7A) to apply acoustic waves to the testing cell. The SAW device was coupled to the bottom of the pouch cell (e.g., opposite to the tabs of the pouch cell). The SAW device generates acoustic waves with a frequency of 20 MHz. A control cell was subject to the same charge-discharge cycling but no SAW was applied to the control cell. In each charge-discharge cycle, the cells (the testing cell and control cell) were charged at 0.5 C constant current to 4.3 V, and the voltage was held at 4.35 V until the current dropped below C / 20. The cells were then discharged at 1 C. The cells were cycled with 80% of state-of-charge (SOC) swing, namely 160 mAh out of 200 mAh per cycle. FIG. 7C shows the capacity retention of the testing cell (“With SAW”) and the control cell (“No SAW”) during the cycling. The control cell showed fast degradation, and its maximum capacity dropped to below 80% in 50-55 cycles. As a comparison, the testing cell coupled with the SAW device had more stable cycling, and its maximum capacity maintained over 200 cycles with 100% of the capacity. The improvement of cycle life of the batteries by SAW was more than 4 times.

[0152] While preferred embodiments of the present disclosure have been shown and described herein, such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur without departing from the disclosure. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the present disclosure may be employed in practicing the present disclosure. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the present disclosure and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An acoustic device configured for use with an electrochemical cell, the acoustic device comprising: an acoustic wave generator configured to generate and stream acoustic waves into the electrochemical cell for improving a performance of the electrochemical cell, wherein the electrochemical cell is selected from the group consisting of a solid-state or semi-solidstate battery, a fuel cell, an electrolyzer, a flow battery, and a metal-air battery.

2. The acoustic device of claim 1, wherein the acoustic device is coupled to an exterior surface of the electrochemical cell.

3. The acoustic device of claim 1, wherein the acoustic device is coupled to an interior surface of the electrochemical cell.

4. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the group further consists of a lithium-ion battery.

5. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the group further consists of a lithium metal battery.

6. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the group further consists of a nonlithium based battery.

7. The acoustic device of claim 6, wherein the non-lithium based battery comprises a sodium battery or a sodium ion battery.

8. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the group further consists of a capacitor.

9. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the electrochemical cell comprises an anode and a cathode separated by an ionically conductive bridge.

10. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the acoustic waves are configured to reduce a bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell by promoting mobility, availability, and / or uniformity in distribution of ionic species within the electrochemical cell.

11. The acoustic device of claim 10, wherein the bulk impedance of the electrochemical cell is reduced by at least 1% or more compared to another electrochemical cell that is operated without the acoustic waves.

12. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-11, wherein the acoustic waves are configured to facilitate or increase mass transport within the electrochemical cell.

13. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the acoustic waves are configured to enhance a kinetic rate of reactions within the electrochemical cell.

14. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the acoustic waves are configured to provide micro-stirring effects of ionic species within the electrochemical cell.

15. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-14, wherein the acoustic waves are customized or tuned based at least in part on a type, capacity, function, shape, size, form factor and / or operating conditions of the electrochemical cell.

16. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the acoustic waves comprise at least one of the following: surface acoustic waves (SAW), Lamb waves, flexural waves, thickness mode vibrations, mixed-mode waves, longitudinal waves, shear mode vibrations, bulk wave vibrations, or any combination(s) thereof.

17. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the acoustic waves have a frequency ranging from 10 Hz to 500 MHz.

18. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-17, wherein the acoustic waves have a power ranging from 0.1 mW to 500 MW.

19. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-18, wherein the acoustic waves have one or more waveforms selected from the group consisting of a continuous sine wave, square wave, and triangular wave.

20. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the acoustic waves are generated with on / off pulsing ranging from 0% to 100%.

21. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the acoustic waves are generated with a timescale period ranging from about 1 microsecond to about 1 millisecond.

22. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-21, wherein the performance of the electrochemical cell is based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell.

23. The acoustic device of any one of claims 1-22, wherein the performance of the electrochemical cell is based on one or more of the following: energy capacity, power capability, charging rate, operating life, reliability, and / or safety.

24. The acoustic device of claim 1, wherein the electrochemical cell is an electrolyzer, and the performance of the electrochemical cell is based on a hydrogen generation rate of the electrolyzer.

25. An electrochemical system comprising: the acoustic device and the electrochemical cell of any one of claims 1-24; and one or more sensors configured to monitor the performance of the electrochemical cell.

26. The system of claim 25, further comprising one or more controllers configured to dynamically adjust one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves, based on the monitored performance of the electrochemical cell by the one or more sensors.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves based at least in part on a type of the electrochemical cell.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein the one or more controllers are configured to dynamically adjust the one or more characteristics of the acoustic waves to optimize the performance of the electrochemical cell.

29. The system of any one of claims 26-28, wherein the one or more characteristics comprise a type, frequency, amplitude, duration, and / or pulsing mode or pattern of the acoustic waves.

30. The system of any one of claims 25-29, wherein the system comprises a plurality of acoustic devices and a plurality of electrochemical cells.

31. The system of claim 30, wherein the plurality of acoustic devices is configured to enhance a performance of the plurality of electrochemical cells.

32. The system of claim 30 or 31, wherein the plurality of acoustic devices is distributed throughout the system and is configured to ensure consistent performance enhancement across the plurality of electrochemical cells.

33. The system of any one of claims 30-32, further comprising a plurality of signal drivers configured to generate electrical signals for operating the plurality of acoustic devices.

34. The system of claim 33, further comprising an electrochemical management system (EMS).

35. The system of claim 34, wherein the electrochemical management system comprises a feedback loop.

36. The system of claim 34 or 35, wherein the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parameters emitted by the plurality of signal drivers to the plurality of acoustic devices based on real-time performance data of the plurality of electrochemical cells.

37. The system of any one of claims 34-36, wherein the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parameters emitted by the plurality of signal drivers based on the State-of-Charge, State-of-Health, State-of-Power, State-of-Function, Voltage, Current, or Temperature.

38. The system of any one of claims 34-37, wherein the EMS is configured to dynamically compute and select electrical parameters emitted by the plurality of signal drivers to the plurality of acoustic devices based on real-time performance data or based on predefined performance criteria for the plurality of electrochemical cells.

39. The system of claim any one of claims 34-38, further comprising feedback circuits to provide the EMS with the real-time performance data.

40. The system of claim 39, wherein the feedback circuits are integrated with the one or more sensors distributed within the electrochemical system.

41. The system of any one of claims 34-40, wherein the EMS is configured to utilize machine learning algorithms to optimize the operation of the plurality of signal drivers and the plurality of acoustic devices based on historical and real-time performance data.

42. The system of any one of claims 25-41, wherein the system comprises a plurality of electrochemical modules, wherein an electrochemical module comprises a plurality of electrochemical cells.

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