Electrode formation and electrolyte optimization

Abstract

The present inventions relate to methods, systems, apparatuses, controllers, software, and composition of matter associated with forming electrodes. The electrodes are formed by a controlled electrode conditioning process such as a buffering process, cleaning process, and / or buffer exchange process. Such electrode formation enables optimized charge carrier uptake, uniform formation of passivation layer, uniform charge distribution, and / or electrochemical stabilization, before electrode integration into an electrochemical cell. Such electrode formation allows for regulation of electrolyte composition, charge carrier diffusion, active material passivation, process automation, and / or environmental control, promoting consistent electrode performance and scalability for high-throughput manufacturing.

Description

Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOELECTRODE FORMATION AND ELECTROLYTE OPTIMIZATIONPRIORITY APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 788,359, filed on April 14, 2026, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.BACKGROUND

[0002] The present invention relates to methods and structures such as electrode assemblies for use in energy manipulation (e.g., storage and / or release) devices such as batteries, to energy manipulation devices employing such structures, and to methods for manufacturing such structures and energy manipulation devices.

[0003] Batteries are a type of energy manipulation device having electrochemical cells in which carrier ions travel between a cathode structure and an anode structure through an electrolyte within each electrochemical cell (e.g., voltaic cell) abbreviated herein as “cell.” The anode structure and cathode structure in the cell are separated by a gap. The cell may include a separator structure. The separator structure may be incorporated in the battery cell during assembly (e.g., manufacturing) of the battery, and present during the battery’s operation. Anode and cathode current collectors of the respective anodes and cathodes, pool electric current from the respective active electrochemical material of the electrodes and enable transfer (e.g., flow) of the current to the environment outside the device, e.g., outside of the battery.

[0004] The formation process of constructed electrodes (e.g., including buffering of charge carriers) may involve pre-loading of electrode active material with charge carriers and / or forming a passivation layer. Such formation process may be time-consuming. Such formation process may result in inhomogeneous distribution of the charge carriers in the electrode active material, e.g., at least in part due to directional inflow of the charge carriers with respect to the electrode active material disposed on the electrode. Inner portions of the electrodes and / or inner electrodes in a stack of electrodes may be less accessible to diffusing charge carriers as compared to portions of the active material located near the different edges of the electrode, e.g., depending on (A) the construction architecture of the electrodes such as in a battery cell and / or (B) direction of influx of the charge carriers with respect to the cell assembly. The cell’s function may favor different specification regarding the electrolytic medium of the charge carriers. The cell function may include buffering, passivation layer formation, and / or cell performance, such as charging and / or discharging. The cell’s specification may include requirements and / or limitations. In the present (e.g., current) process, the requirements and / or restrictions, must be met by a single electrolyte serving all (e.g., both) of the cell functionAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOprocesses. An initial passivation layer formation process may require more precursors (e.g., charge carriers) as compared to subsequent passivation processes occurring during subsequent cycles of charge / discharge, e.g., to maintain the initial passivation layer formed. The subsequent passivation process may be a passivation layer maintenance process, e.g., as opposed to a passivation layer formation generated on a non-passivated active material.

[0005] Buffering of charge carriers to constructed electrodes can involve a prolonged process resulting in non-uniform charge carrier(s) distribution within the electrode active material and / or inhomogeneous passivation layer. Charge carrier accumulation and / or passivation layer formation, can differ across electrode regions, leading to inconsistencies in ion transport and diffusion efficiency. Inner electrode regions, especially in stacked configurations, can receive limited exposure at least in part due conditioning agents, e.g., due to architectural constraints. The conditioning agents may include the charge carriers and / or electrolytic mixture components. Binding (e.g., intercalation) of charge carriers with electrode active material can cause marked volumetric alteration in the active material mass, which may be relatively pronounced in the first incorporation and / or intercalation cycles of the charge carriers, as compared to subsequent cycles, e.g., since some of the depletion of the charge carriers may be irreversible such as due their integration in formation of a passivation layer (e.g., solid electrolyte interface (SEI) layer) on the active electrode material.

[0006] In electrolytic cell assemblies such as in batteries, restricted ion and electrolytic medium transport between stacked electrodes and localized electrolyte concentration differences, may hinder charge carrier(s) diffusion and / or reduce homogenous distribution of the charge carriers throughout the active material. For example, in cell assemblies where multiple electrodes are stacked with separators and electrolyte pathways. Such limited penetration in densely packed cell architecture may (e.g., further) restrict ion mobility and / or electrolytic mobility, e.g., reducing conditioning efficiency of the cell assembly. The conditioning may include charge carrier binding to the active material, such as part of a passivation layer, and / or inducing formation of the passivation layer.

[0007] Various electrolytic mixtures have different matching (e.g., are differently optimized with respect) to the electrode operation type (e.g., regular use and / or formation), utilization, cell material makeup, or any combination thereof. Some electrolyte systems (e.g., electrolytic mixture) may cause a relative excessive expulsion of gas in certain operation schemes of the cell, e.g., in certain voltage differential of the cell, certain electrode active material makeup, contain electrolytic mixture, certain temperatures, certain pressures, certain surrounding atmosphere, or any combination thereof. The excessive expulsion of gas may be relative toAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOdevice requirement, e.g., jurisdictional, industrial, and / or other business, requirements. Others electrolyte mixtures may cause a relative diminished charge capacity and / or diminished cycling capacity of the cell. Relative may be according to a benchmark and / or standard such as disclosed herein. Electrolyte mixtures optimal for buffering (e.g., and electrode passivation layer formation) may or may not be compatible with other functions of the cell such as cycling between charged and discharged states, e.g., at time they are not optimally compatible.Electrolyte mixtures optimal for passivation layer formation (e.g., and charge carrier buffering) may or may not be compatible with other functions of the cell such as cycling between charged and discharged states, e.g., at time they are not optimally compatible. Charge carrier buffering (abbreviated herein as “buffering”) and regular charge cycling may be two distinct operations that impose distinct requirements on the optimal electrolytic mixture. Passivation layer formation (abbreviated herein as “formation”) and regular charge cycling may be two distinct operations that impose distinct requirements on the optimal electrolytic mixture. Currently, a single electrolyte mixture must balance the diffusion characteristics required for pre-loading of charge carriers (also referred to herein as “buffering”) with the stability and efficiency needed for longterm charge cycling, e.g., as the buffering occurs in situ within the target device such as battery. This may be in addition to optimizing that electrolyte mixture for passivation layer formation. This multi (e.g., dual) function requirement of the electrolytic mixture in the target device (aka energy manipulation device such as a battery) may increase the challenges associated with electrolytic mixture formulation and / or may result in using an electrolytic mixture that is not optimal for any of these two functions of the cell.TECHNICAL FIELD OF INVENTION

[0008] The present disclosure relates electrochemical cell assemblies, their buffering with charge carriers, formation of passivation layers on their active materials, and optimization of electrolytic mixtures associated with the cell assemblies, e.g., for various stages of their generation and use.SUMMARY

[0009] In some aspects, the present disclosure resolves one or more of the aforementioned hardships and / or shortcomings. In some embodiments, the present disclosure provides solutions to curtail the aforementioned hardships and / or shortcomings. The solutions include method(s), device(s), apparatus(es), system(s), and / or design(s). In some aspects, the present inventions relate to method(s), device(s), apparatus(es), system(s), and design(s), utilized for a battery comprising cell(s). Methods, apparatuses, devices, program instructions, and structures, are disclosed herein to address the challenges associated with achieving uniform charge carrier distribution and / or passivation layer, during the formation (e.g., buffering) of electrodes. TheAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrodes may be in stacked electrode arrangements in the target device. Methods, apparatuses, devices, program instructions, and structures, are disclosed herein provide for enhanced electrolyte mixture performance for buffering and / or for long-term cycling operations. The optimized electrolytic mixture for buffering may at least in part contribute to a reduced time duration for the buffering. Methods, apparatuses, devices, program instructions, and structures, are disclosed herein provide for liquid conditioning of battery cells. The liquid conditioning may include (a) buffering of electrodes, (b) exchanging the liquid in which the electrodes are immersed in such as in preparation for their integration in the target device containing a different liquid that the liquid used for the buffering, and / or (c) cleaning the electrodes using a cleaning liquid. Any of these liquids may include an electrolyte. The cleaning liquid may be devoid of an electrolyte.

[0010] In some aspects, disclosed herein are method(s), device(s), apparatus(es), system(s), and / or design(s) exposing active material of the electrodes in a bath comprising charge carriers before their integration in a cell architecture of a target device. Additional active material may be directly and (e.g., substantially) homogenously exposed to conditioning agents as they circulate in the bath. The conditioning agents may include the charge carriers, the electrolyte, and / or the cleaning liquid. The liquid and / or the conditioning agents may be recycled. In an example, the charge carriers and / or the electrolyte mix in which they are disposed, are recycled. The buffering may be controllably enclosed in an environment deficient in one or more reactive species (e.g., oxygen and / or water), relative to an ambient environment external to the enclosure. The conditioned electrodes may be assembled in the cell architecture prescribed for the target device. The conditioned electrodes may be loaded with the charge carriers and / or include a passivation layer, e.g., SEI. Electrolyte mixture may be designed specifically for the buffering operation, which may, or may not, differ from the electrolyte used for performance of the cell. The cell performance may include charging and / or discharging of the cell such as in respective charge and / or discharge cycles.

[0011] In some aspects, disclosed herein are methods for conditioning electrodes such as buffering, buffer exchanging, and / or cleaning. The buffering of the electrodes may comprise immersing the electrodes in a controlled electrolyte bath, wherein the electrolyte composition, circulation, pressure, material makeup, and / or temperature, are controlled, e.g., to (e.g., substantially and / or measurably) achieve uniform charge carrier distribution and / or uniform passivation layer, across the electrode active material. The methods comprise use of a dedicated environment, separated from the target device, to enhance the conditioning process and / or reduce electrolyte contamination. The methodologies provide for robust, stable, and / orAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOlong-term, device performance, e.g., while avoiding the need to compromise on the content of the electrolyte mixture such as due to excessive gassing and / or compatibility with regular cell operation. The methods may enable the use of distinct electrolyte mixtures for buffering and / or regular cell operation, e.g., optimizing for each of the processes independently such as for improved efficiency and reliability. Further disclosed herein are device(s), apparatus(es), system(s), and / or design(s) associated with these methodologies.

[0012] In another aspect, a device for electrode buffering, the device comprising: a bath configured to accommodate (a) electrodes comprising an active material, (b) a liquid comprising an electrolyte, and (c) a charge carrier source; an agitator configured to agitate the liquid to distribute charge carriers in the liquid surrounding the active material of each of the electrodes; and electrical connections configured to operatively couple with an electrical power source, with the electrodes, and with the charge carrier source, to electrically couple the charge carrier source with the electrodes and with the electrical power source to generate the charge carriers from the charge carrier source during operation of the device.

[0013] In another aspect, a device for conditioning of electrodes, the device comprising: a bath configured to accommodate electrodes comprising an active material and a liquid configured for the conditioning; and an agitator configured to agitate the liquid to distribute the liquid surrounding the active material of each of the electrodes, the conditioning preparing the electrodes for assembly as part of a target device configure for electrical storage and / or electrical release. In some embodiments, the conditioning comprises (a) loading the active material with charge carriers and / or (b) forming a passivation layer on the active material, the bath being configured to accommodate at least one charge carrier source, the device further comprising electrical connections configured to operatively couple with an electrical power source, with the electrodes and with the at least one charge carrier source, to electrically couple the at least one charge carrier source with the electrodes and with the electrical power source, to generate the charge carriers from the at least one charge carrier source during operation of the device. In some embodiments, the liquid comprises an electrolytic mixture. In some embodiments, the device is configured to operatively couple with, or include, an electrode holder configured to connect with the electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrode holder is configured to physically and electrically connect with the electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrode holder comprises a busbar. In some embodiments, the electrode holder is different from a busbar. In some embodiments, the electrodes are destined for integration into a target device, and the electrode holder is destined to be excluded from (e.g., and not be integrated into) the target device. In some embodiments, the electrodes each comprise a tab at a distalAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOend of the electrode, the tab being devoid of an active material. In some embodiments, the electrodes are each integrated with sacrificial portions as a strip. In some embodiments, the sacrificial portions are configured (a) for utilization in aligning the electrodes in a cell assembly of the target device, (b) to be separated from the electrode prior to integration of the electrodes in the target device, (c) for coupling with the holder, or (d) any combination of (a), (b), (c), and (d). In some embodiments, separation from the electrode is at least in part using at least one tear line. In some embodiments, the tear line comprise a broken line. In some embodiments, the liquid is a first liquid, and wherein the conditioning comprises exchanging the first liquid with a second liquid. In some embodiments, (I) the first liquid comprises a first electrolytic mixture and the second liquid comprises a second electrolytic mixture; (II) the first liquid comprises an electrolytic mixture and the second liquid comprises a cleaning solution, and / or (III) the first liquid is optimized for electrode formation, and the second liquid is optimized for electrode operation in a target device. In some embodiments, the target device is a battery. In some embodiments, the battery is a secondary battery. In some embodiments, an electrode of the electrodes (e.g., each of the electrodes) has a largest face type having the largest surface area, the face type being rectangular having a height normal to a width. In some embodiments, an aspect ratio of a first FLS of the largest face type to a second FLS of the largest face type, is at least about 2:1. In some embodiments, the first FLS is the width and the second FLS is the height. In some embodiments, the electrodes of the device comprise at least 20 electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrodes of the device comprise at least 20 electrodes, 40 electrodes, 50 electrodes, 100 electrodes, 150 electrodes, 200 electrodes, or 250 electrodes. In some embodiments, the electrodes are of the same polarity. In some embodiments, the electrodes of opposing polarities. In some embodiments, (I) the bath is configured for disposition in an enclosure, or (II) the bath is configured to engage with a lid to form the enclosure, the enclosure being configured maintain in its interior an atmosphere different from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the electrical connections are external to the enclosure. In some embodiments, the electrical connections are internal to the enclosure. In some embodiments, an internal atmosphere is depleted by one or more reactive species configured to react, during operation of the device, with the active material, a charge carrier source disposed in the enclosure, charge carriers disposed in the bath, other conditioning agents disposed in the bath, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the one or more reactive species include oxygen and / or water. In some embodiments, an internal atmosphere is purged relative to an internal environment of the enclosure, and / or the internal atmosphere is held at an overpressure in the internal environment of the enclosure. InAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOsome embodiments, during operation of the device, the internal atmosphere is held in an internal environment of the enclosure an ambient pressure and / or at ambient temperature, the ambient pressure and the ambient temperature being of an external environment to the enclosure. In some embodiments, during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath an ambient temperature of an external environment to the enclosure. In some embodiments, during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath at a temperature above an ambient temperature of an external environment to the enclosure. In some embodiments, during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath a temperature higher than is allowed for normal operation of the target device. In some embodiments, the enclosure is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the enclosure, the fluids including at least one material in a gas phase and / or material in a liquid phase. In some embodiments, the fluid circulation system comprises, or is operatively coupled with, a recycling system, a mixing system, a control system, a supplementing system, a filtration system, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the fluid circulation system is separate (e.g., different) for the at least one material in the gas phase and for the at least one material in the liquid phase. In some embodiments, the bath is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the bath, the fluids including at least one material in a liquid phase. In some embodiments, the fluid circulation system comprises, or is operatively coupled with, a recycling system, a mixing system, a control system, a supplementing system, a filtration system, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the bath is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the bath, the fluids including at least one material in a liquid phase. In some embodiments, a bath configured to accommodate the electrodes arranged in an arrangement based at least in part on (a) the agitation, (b) flow of the liquid into the bath, (c) flow of the liquid out of the bath, or (d) any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the arrangement is based at least in part on a temperature and / or pressure of the liquid in the bath. In some embodiments, a bath configured to accommodate the electrodes arranged in an arrangement based at least in part on a physics simulation. In some embodiments, the physics simulation comprises fluid mechanics, shape of the electrodes, makeup of the active material, number of electrodes to the bath during an operation cycle, aspect ratio of the electrodes (e.g., portion to be submerged in the bath), or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the liquid comprises conditioning agents, the bath being configured to accommodate the electrodes such that they are arranged in an arrangement configured to distribute the conditioning agents (e.g., substantially) homogenously among the electrodes in the bath. In some embodiments, the device is configured to operatively coupleAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOwith, or comprise, a temperature conditioning system. In some embodiments, the temperature conditioning system is configured to condition a temperature of the liquid in the bath during operation of the device. In some embodiments, the electrodes are cathodes or anodes. In some embodiments, the anodes comprise silicon. In some embodiments, the cathodes comprise cobalt. In some embodiments, the liquid comprises charge carriers including lithium.

[0014] In another aspect, a method comprising: (a) providing the device of any of claims 2 to 18; and (b) using the device for conditioning of the electrodes. In some embodiments, the conditioning comprises one or more conditioning types. In some embodiments, the one or more conditioning types comprise buffering, liquid exchange, and / or cleaning. In some embodiments, following the conditioning, assembling the electrodes a target device. In some embodiments, the method further comprises manufacturing, testing, storing, transporting, and / or using the target device for electricity conductance. For example, a method for conditioning of electrodes, the method comprising (a) immersing at least one electrode containing an electrode active material in a bath containing a first liquid configured for conditioning of the electrodes (e.g., conditioning the active martial of the electrodes); (b) agitating the first liquid to achieve the requested conditioning of the electrodes; (c) optionally substituting the first liquid with a second liquid; (d) removing the conditioned electrode(s) from the bath ( e.g., under controlled conditions such as to maintain integrity of the electrodes and / or prevent contamination); (e) optionally integrating the removed electrode(s) into a target device (e.g., in accordance with a prescribed target device architecture). In some embodiments, the method further comprises controlling (i) the first liquid, (ii) conditioning parameters and / or (iii) internal atmosphere of the conditioning system. In some embodiments, when the first liquid, conditioning parameters and / or internal atmosphere require change, repeating (b)-(c) under the change. In some embodiments, the method comprises recycling (a) the first liquid, (b) the second liquid and / or (c) the internal atmosphere (e.g., on or after extracting the conditioned electrode(s) were removed from the bath such as under controlled conditions, such as to maintain electrode integrity and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination. In some embodiments, the recycling may be ongoing during operation of the conditioning operation.

[0015] In another aspect, an apparatus for using the any of the above devices, the apparatus comprises: at least one controller configured for (a) operatively couple with at least one component and with the device; and (b) executing, or directing the at least one component to execute, one or more operations associated with conditioning of the device. In some embodiments, the at least one component comprises at least one sensor. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple with a power sourceAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOand / or with a communication platform. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is operatively coupled with at least one sensor configured to sense one or more attributes of the conditioning of the electrodes. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to direct placement of the electrodes in the bath such that their conditioning is (e.g., substantially) homogenous.

[0016] In another aspect, one or more non-transitory computer readable media comprising program instruction physically inscribed thereon, the program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to (I) execute, or direct execution of, one or more operations associated with use of any of the above devices, (II) the one or more operations comprising directing at least one component to execute the one or more operations, the one or more processors being configured to operatively couple with the at least one component, or (III) a combination of (I) and (II). In some embodiments, one or more of the at least one component is of the device.

[0017] In another aspect, a method of fabricating any of the above devices, the method comprising: executing one or more operations to fabricate the device. In some embodiments, fabrication of the device comprises manufacturing.

[0018] In another aspect, an apparatus for fabricating any of the above devices, the apparatus comprising: at least one controller configured for (a) operatively coupling with at least one component; and (b) executing, or directing the at least one component to execute, one or more operations associated with fabrication of the device. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple with a power source and / or with a communication platform.

[0019] In another aspect, one or more non-transitory computer readable media comprising program instruction physically inscribed thereon, the program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to (I) execute, or direct execution of, one or more operations associated with fabrication of the any of the above devices, (II) the one or more operations comprising directing at least one component to execute the one or more operations, the one or more processors being configured to operatively couple with the at least one component, or (III) a combination of (I) and (II).

[0020] In another aspect, a system for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, and / or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media / medium), disclosed herein.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0021] In another aspect, a system for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, operation of a device, and / or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media / medium), disclosed herein.

[0022] In another aspect, device(s) (e.g., apparatus) for effectuating the methods, operations of an apparatus, and / or operations inscribed by non-transitory computer readable program instructions (e.g., inscribed on a media / medium).

[0023] In other aspects, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controller(s)), and / or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) that implement any of the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the program instructions are inscribed on at least one medium (e.g., on a medium or on media).

[0024] In other aspects, methods, systems, apparatuses (e.g., controller(s)), and / or non-transitory computer-readable program instructions (e.g., software) that implement any of the devices disclosed herein and / or any operation of these devices. In some embodiments, the program instructions are inscribed on at least one medium (e.g., on a medium or on media).

[0025] In another aspect, an apparatus comprises at least one controller that is configured (e.g., programmed) to direct a mechanism used in a methodology disclosed herein to implement (e.g., effectuate) any of the method and / or operations disclosed herein, wherein the controller(s) is operatively coupled with the mechanism. In some embodiments, the controller(s) implements any of the methods and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises, or be operatively coupled with, a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system comprises at least three, four, or five, control levels. In some embodiments, at least two operations are performed, or directed, by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two operations are each performed, or directed, by a different controller.

[0026] In another aspect, an apparatus comprises at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to implement (e.g., effectuate), or direct implementation of the method, process, and / or operation disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein.

[0027] In another aspect, non-transitory computer readable program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to execute, or direct execution of, the method, process, and / or operation disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements any of the methods, processes, and / or operations disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the one or more processors is part of a mechanism, outside of the mechanism, or in a location remote from the mechanism disclosed herein (e.g., in the cloud).Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0028] In another aspect, a system comprises an apparatus and at least one controller configured (e.g., programmed) to direct operation of the apparatus, wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled with the apparatus. In some embodiments, the apparatus includes any apparatus or device disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller implements, or direct implementation of, any of the methods disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller directs any apparatus (or component thereof) disclosed herein. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) of the apparatus are directed by the same controller. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) of the apparatus are directed by different controllers. In some embodiments, at least two operations (e.g., instructions) are carried out by the same processor and / or by the same sub-computer software product. In some embodiments, at least two of operations (e.g., instructions) are carried out by different processors and / or by different sub-computer software products.

[0029] In another aspect, a computer software product, comprising a (e.g., non-transitory) computer-readable medium / media in which program instructions are stored, which instructions, when read by a computer, cause the computer to direct a mechanism used to implement (e.g., effectuate) any of the method disclosed herein, wherein the non-transitory computer-readable medium is operatively coupled with the mechanism. In some embodiments, the mechanism comprises an apparatus or an apparatus component.

[0030] In another aspect, a computer system comprising one or more computer processors and non-transitory computer-readable medium / media coupled thereto. In some embodiments, the non-transitory computer-readable medium / media comprises machine-executable code that, upon execution by the one or more computer processors, implements any of the methods and / or operations (e.g., as disclosed herein), and / or effectuates directions of the controller(s) (e.g., as disclosed herein).

[0031] In another aspect, a method comprises executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the mechanism(s) (e.g., device(s)) disclosed herein.

[0032] In another aspect, an apparatus comprises at least one controller is configured (i) operatively couple with the device, and (ii) direct executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the device(s) disclosed herein.

[0033] In another aspect, at least one controller is associated with the methods, devices, and software disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises at least one connector configured to connect to a power source. In some embodiments, the at least one controller being configured to operatively couple with a power source at least in part by (I)Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOhaving a power socket and / or (II) being configured for wireless power transfer using inductive charging. In some embodiments, the at least one controller comprises a non-volatile memory, e.g., a solid-state device (SSD) such as a FLASH memory. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in, or comprises, a hierarchical control system. In some embodiments, the hierarchical control system comprises at least three hierarchical control levels. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is included in a control system disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to control at least one other component of a mechanism (e.g., system, device, or apparatus) disclosed herein. In some embodiments, the device disclosed herein is a component of a system, and wherein the at least one controller is configured to (i) operatively couple with another component of the system and (ii) direct operation of the other component. In some embodiments, the at least one controller is configured to direct operation of the other component at least in part for participation of the other component in a method disclosed herein.

[0034] In another aspect, non-transitory computer readable program instructions for a method disclosed herein, the non-transitory computer readable program instructions, when read by one or more processors operatively coupled with the device, cause the one or more processors to direct executing one or more operations associated with at least one configuration of the device(s) disclosed herein.

[0035] In some embodiments, the program instructions are of a computer product.

[0036] The various embodiments in any of the above aspects are combinable (e.g., within an aspect), as appropriate. Individual features (e.g., embodiments) disclosed herein are combinable in any manner requested and / or desired, as applicable.

[0037] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0038] 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.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0039] It should be appreciated that any patent, publication, or other disclosure material, in whole or in part, which is said to be incorporated by reference herein is incorporated herein only to the extent that the incorporated material does not conflict with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth in this disclosure. As such, and to the extent necessary, the disclosure as explicitly set forth herein supersedes any conflicting material incorporated herein by reference. Any material, or portion thereof, that is said to be incorporated by reference herein, but which conflicts with existing definitions, statements, or other disclosure material set forth herein will only be incorporated to the extent that no conflict arises between that incorporated material and the existing disclosure material.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The novel features of the present disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. Each of the figures disclosed herein is shown in accordance with some implementations of the subject matter of the disclosure. 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 present disclosure are utilized, and the accompanying drawings or figures (also “Fig.” and “Figs.” herein), of which:

[0041] Fig. 1 depicts a schematic example of various cells;

[0042] Fig. 2 depicts schematic examples of folding options for energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) components, and a current collector;

[0043] Fig. 3 depicts schematic examples of devices (e.g., batteries) and cells;

[0044] Fig. 4 depicts schematic examples of cell architectures;

[0045] Fig. 5 depicts schematic exploded views of device (e.g., battery) components;

[0046] Fig. 6 depicts illustrative examples of device (e.g., battery) components;

[0047] Fig. 7 shows images and exploded view of device (e.g., battery) components;

[0048] Fig. 8 shows images of device (e.g., battery) components;

[0049] Fig. 9 schematically shows various stages of a cell;

[0050] Fig. 10 shows pre-charging of cells;

[0051] Fig. 11 schematically shows electrodes in a bath;

[0052] Fig. 12 schematically shows electrodes in baths;

[0053] Fig. 13 is an illustrative flowchart of a process for electrode conditioning;

[0054] Fig. 14 is an illustrative flowchart of a process for electrode buffering and / or passivation layer formation;

[0055] Fig. 15 depicts a schematic example of a control system;Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0056] Fig. 16 depicts a schematic example of a processing system;

[0057] Fig. 17 depicts schematic examples of cell architectures; and

[0058] Fig. 18 depicts illustrative examples of a device (e.g., battery) components.

[0059] The figures and components therein may not be drawn to scale. Various components of the figures described herein may not be drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] While various embodiments of the inventions have been shown, and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein might be employed. The various embodiments, aspects, examples, variations, alternates, and instances, disclosed herein are combinable, as appropriate.

[0061] Reference throughout the specification to “various embodiments,’’ “some embodiments,” “one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” “an example,” or “an embodiment” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with any embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in various embodiments,” “in some embodiments,” “in one embodiment,” “some example embodiments,” “one example embodiment,” or “in an embodiment” in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0062] Terms such as “a,” “an” and “the” are not intended to refer to only a singular entity but include the general class of which a specific example may be used for illustration. The terminology herein is used to describe specific embodiments in the present disclosure, but their usage does not delimit to the specific embodiments of the present disclosure. The term “includes” means includes but not limited to, the term “including” means including but not limited to, and the term “based on” means based at least in part on.

[0063] An immediately consecutive second feature to a first feature is devoid of another feature disposed therebetween, the features being of the same type. The feature can be a real-life feature, a calculated feature, or any other virtual feature.

[0064] When the term “about” is used in the contacts of a number, e.g., “aboutthe term includes the number.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0065] When ranges are mentioned, the ranges are meant to be inclusive, unless otherwise specified. For example, a range between value 1 and value 2 is meant to be inclusive and include value 1 and value 2. The inclusive range will span any value from about value 1 to about value 2. The term “adjacent” or “adjacent to,” as used herein, includes “next to,” “adjoining,” “in contact with,” and “in proximity to.” When ranges are mentioned (e.g., between, at least, at most, and the like) the endpoint(s) of the range is / are also claimed. For example, when the range is from X to Y, the values of X and Y are also claimed. For example, when the range is at most Z, the value of Z is also claimed. For example, when the range is at least W, the value of W is also claimed.

[0066] The conjunction “and / or” as used herein in “X and / or Y” - including in the specification and claims - is meant to include the options (i) X, (ii) Y, and (iii) X and Y, as applicable. The phrase “including X, and / or Y” is meant to have the same meaning as the phrase “comprising X or Y” under currently prevailing US law.

[0067] The term “operatively coupled,” “operatively configured,” or “operatively connected” refers to a first mechanism that is coupled (or connected) to a second mechanism to allow the intended operation of the second and / or first mechanism. The coupling may comprise physical or non-physical coupling. The non-physical coupling may comprise signal-induced coupling (e.g., wireless coupling).

[0068] The phrase “is / are structured” or “is / are configured,” when modifying an article, refers to a structure of the article that can bring about the referred result.

[0069] The symbol “*” designates the mathematical operation of multiplication, e.g., “times.”

[0070] Fundamental length scale (abbreviated herein as “FLS”) comprises any suitable scale (e.g., dimension) of an object. For example, an FLS of an object may comprise a length, a width, a height, a diameter, a spherical equivalent diameter, a diameter of a bounding circle, a diameter equivalent of a bounding sphere.

[0071] Performing a reversible first operation is understood herein to mean performing the first operation and being capable of performing the opposite operation to that first operation (e.g., which is a second operation). For example, when a controller directs reversibly opening a shutter, that shutter can also close, and the controller can optionally direct a closure of that shutter. For example, when an attractor reversibly binds to a charge carrier, that attractor can also release that charge carrier after its binding.

[0072] While the disclosure refers to a cathode as an electrode, the electrode may be an anode, as applicable.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0073] While various portions herein may refer for simplicity to a battery as an energy manipulation device, that disclosure is extended to any another energy manipulation (e.g., storage) device, as applicable.

[0074] As noted above, implementations of the present disclosure can relate to (e.g., secondary) batteries, the structures that make up the (e.g., secondary) batteries, and the methods and processes for manufacturing the structures and batteries. As used herein, the term “anode” used in the context of a (e.g., secondary) battery may refer to the negative electrode in a (e.g., secondary) battery. “Anode material” or “anodically active” as used herein may refer to a material or materials suitable for use as the negative electrode of a (e.g., secondary) battery. The term “cathode” as used herein in the context of a (e.g., secondary) battery may refer to the positive electrode in a (e.g., secondary) battery. “Cathode material” or “cathodically active” as used herein may refer to a material or materials suitable for use as the positive electrode of a (e.g., secondary) battery.

[0075] In some implementations described herein, the term “electrode” may be used to refer to either the anode or the cathode, and the term “counter-electrode” may refer to the other or opposite. For the sake of explanation, implementations may be described in terms of “electrode” and “counter-electrode.” It should be appreciated that in these implementations, the term electrode may be replaced by the term anode while the term counter-electrode may be replaced by the term cathode, as applicable. Alternatively, in these implementations, the term electrode may be replaced by the term cathode while the term counter-electrode may be replaced by the term anode, as applicable.

[0076] The prescribed use of the device (e.g., battery) comprises during charge-discharge cycling, during transportation, during storage, during maintenance, during upgrade, or any combination thereof. The prescribed use of the cell assembly comprises during formation of the cell assembly, during buffering of the cell assembly, during the prescribed use of the device comprising the cell assembly (e.g., the battery), or any combination thereof. The normal operation conditions of the device may be such that the device (e.g., minimally) abides by jurisdictional standards, and / or industry standards.

[0077] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device may comprise at least one battery. The battery may comprise one or more cells. The battery may be a rechargeable battery, e.g., a secondary battery. The charge carriers of the battery may comprise alkali earth, alkali cations, a plurality of types of any thereof, or any combination thereof. In an example, the battery comprises charge carriers such as lithium charge carriers.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0078] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device may comprise at least one battery. The battery may comprise one or more cells. The battery may be a rechargeable battery, e.g., a secondary battery. The charge carriers of the battery may comprise alkali earth, alkali cations, a plurality of types of any thereof, or any combination thereof. In an example, the battery comprises charge carriers such as lithium charge carriers. In some embodiments, charge carriers may comprise carrier ions. In some embodiments, carrier ions are provided to positive electrodes and / or negative electrodes by carrier ion supply layers. Carrier ion supply layers may comprise one or more sources of lithium ions, sodium ions, potassium ions, calcium ions, magnesium ions, aluminum ions, and / or similar such ions. The battery may or may not be a polymer type battery such as a lithium polymer type battery.

[0079] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device includes at least one unit cells. The energy manipulation device may comprise a population of unit cells (e.g., also referred to herein as a “set of cells”). The target device may comprise an electrode connector operatively coupled with the electrode and a counter-electrode connector operatively coupled with the counter-electrode, with operatively coupled comprising electrically connected. The electrode connector may be also referred to herein as “an electrode terminal,” and the counter-electrode connector may be also referred to herein as “a counter-electrode terminal.” The target device may comprise an electrode busbar, a counter-electrode busbar, an electrode terminal operatively coupled with the electrode busbar, and a counter-electrode terminal operatively coupled with the counter-electrode busbar. The electrode and counter electrode of the unit cell are separated by each other by a gap, e.g., to electrically separate the electrode from the counter-electrode. The gap may include a separator configured to (a) electrically isolate the electrode from the counter electrode and (b) allow traversal of charge carriers through the separator. In some embodiments, each unit cell of the set of cells, includes an electrode structure and a counter-electrode structure separated from each other by a gap. One or more (e.g., each) cells of the set of cells, each include a separator disposed in the gap. In some embodiments, the battery includes adjacent electrode sub-units. Each of the electrode sub-units has a dimension in the X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis, respectively. The X-axis, Y-axis and Z-axis are each mutually perpendicular, akin to a Cartesian coordinate system. As used herein, dimensions of each electrode sub-unit in the Z-axis may be referred to as a "height", dimensions in the Y-axis may be referred to as a "length" and dimensions in the X-axis may be referred to as a "width." The electrode sub-units may be combined into one or more unit cells. A cell can include (a) at least one anodically active material mass (e.g., layer) and / or (b) at least one cathodically active material mass (e.g., layer). In some embodiments, the anodically activeAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOmaterial is separated from the cathode by the gap. In some embodiments, the cathodically active material is separated from the anode by the gap. In some embodiments, the cathodically active material is separated from the anodically active material by the gap. The set of cells may comprise at least 2, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, or 500 cells. The set of cells may comprise any number of cells between any of the aforementioned number of cells, e.g., from 2 to 500 cells, or from 50 to 500 cells. An active material mass may operatively couple with a current collector. The active material mass may comprise one or more layers. The active material may form a gradient.

[0080] In some embodiments, the target device includes an electrode busbar and a counterelectrode busbar. The electrode busbar can be operatively coupled with (e.g., electrically connected with) the electrode, e.g., via electrode tab. The counter-electrode busbar is operatively coupled with (e.g., electrically connected with) the counter-electrode, e.g., via counter-electrode tab. The electrode busbar can be operatively coupled with the electrodes of the set of cells, e.g., via electrode tabs. The counter-electrode busbar is operatively coupled with the counter-electrodes of the set of cells, e.g., via counter-electrode tabs. An electrode tab can be an extension of the electrode that is devoid of the electrode active material. A counterelectrode tab can be an extension of the counter-electrode that is devoid of the counterelectrode active material.

[0081] In some embodiments, the target device includes a first busbar and a second busbar that are in electrical contact with the anode(s) and the cathode(s), respectively, e.g., via electrode tabs. The electrode tabs on the first side of the stack of cells can be electrically coupled with the first busbar, which may be referred to as an anode busbar. The electrode tabs on the second side of the stack of cells may be electrically coupled with the second busbar, which may be referred to as a cathode busbar. In some embodiments, the first busbar is electrically coupled with a first electrical terminal of the secondary battery, which is electrically conductive. When the first busbar comprises an anode busbar for the target device (e.g., battery), the first electrical terminal comprises a negative terminal. In some embodiments, the second busbar is electrically coupled with a second electrical terminal of the target device, which is electrically conductive. When the second busbar comprises a cathode busbar for the target device, the second electrical terminal comprises a positive terminal of the target device.

[0082] In some embodiments, the cell may be coupled with a (e.g., solid) busbar. In some embodiments, the set of cells may be coupled with the (e.g., solid) busbar. The busbar may comprise a (e.g., solid) material of a class. The material class may include an elemental metal, a metal alloy, or an allotrope of elemental carbon, any plurality of types thereof, or anyAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcombination thereof. The busbar may comprise (e.g., solid) material, e.g., including one or more types of materials. At least two types of materials may belong to the same class of materials. At least two types of materials may belong to different classes of materials. A class of material may be a composite or a non-composite material. A class of material may be a tacky material (e.g., a tacky connector), ora solid material (e.g., that is non-tacky). A class of material may be a material that is fluid, or non-fluid, e.g., during manufacture of the energy manipulation device such as a battery. In an example, the (e.g., solid) busbar may comprise a metal alloy and an elemental metal. In an example, the (e.g., solid) busbar may comprise two types of metal alloys. In an example, the (e.g., solid) busbar may comprise a composite material and a non-composite material. The busbar may comprise any conductive material disclosed herein. In an example, the busbar includes copper (e.g., Cu101) and Inconel (e.g., N178). The material class can be an oxygen free material. The material class may be an electronic grade material.

[0083] In some embodiments, a busbar is attached to the current collector tabs, e.g., the attachment being assisted by the tacky connector. In an example, the busbar contacts the tacky connector that contacts the tab(s). The busbar may have a cross section of a Euclidean shape, e.g., a vertical cross section. The busbar may have a cross section of a geometric planar shape, e.g., a vertical cross section. The shape may include a polygon, an ellipse, a combination thereof and / or a plurality thereof. The polygon may include a rectangle, or a plurality of rectangles. In an example, a vertical cross section of the busbar is a rectangle. In an example, the vertical cross section of the busbar comprises at least two different types of shapes, e.g., rectangles. In an example, the vertical cross section of the busbar comprises at least two types of shapes that are (e.g., substantially) the same, and that are distinct from each other. The two types of shapes may comprise the same type of material or may each be from a different type of material. The two types of shapes may comprise the same class of material or may each be from a different class of material. Two of the shapes may be separated from each other by a gap. Two of the shapes may contact each other. A cross section of the busbar may comprise an indentation, e.g., a depression. The depression may be configured to accommodate (a) folded tab(s) (b) any tacky connector, (c) any welding, or (d) any combination thereof. The depression may be configured to increase adhesion of the tab to the (e.g., solid) busbar. The increased adhesion may be at least in part by increasing the (e.g., solid) busbar’s adhesion to (i) any tacky connector and / or (ii) any welding. A contacting surface of the busbar is an exposed surface of the busbar face(s) configured to contract the (a) the tab(s), (b) any tacky connector, (c) any welding, or (d) any combination thereof. The contacting surface may undergo surface treatment before the contact. The surface treatment may be configured to increase adhesion between theAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO(e.g., solid) busbar and (a) the tab(s), (b) any tacky connector, (c) any welding, or (d) any combination thereof. The surface treatment may comprise roughening of the contacting surface. The surface treatment may comprise etching, scraping, or printing (e.g., 3D printing). The surface treatment may comprise mechanical treatment type, chemical treatment type, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. The (e.g., solid) busbar may comprise one or more perforations (e.g., holes). The perforation(s) may be configured to accommodate dimensionality changes occurring in the cell, e.g., during charging and / or discharging. The dimensionality changes of the cell may occur during its (e.g., normal) operation, testing, maintenance, storage, shipping, or any combination thereof.

[0084] In some embodiments, the cell undergoes pre-loading with charge carriers, e.g., before its regular use. The pre-loading may comprise loading the cell with charge carriers, e.g., “pre-lithiation” in the case of lithium cations being the charge carriers. The pre-loading (also referred herein as “buffering”) may be performed during manufacturing and / or before providing the battery for its intended use. The pre-loading may facilitate insertion of additional charge carriers for a charge carrier source such as a lithium source, into the electrode(s) of the battery such as into the anode(s). The electrode may be a vertically short electrode. The pre-loading may replenish (e.g., irreversible) loss of the charge carriers during formation of the battery, e.g., to increase (a) efficiency of the first cycle and / or (b) cell capacity. The pre-loading may result in a reservoir of the charge carriers within the cell, and / or smaller cycled voltage window. The pre-loading may improve current distribution, e.g., during fast charge. The pre-loading may improve the cycle life of the battery. Buffering or pre-loading may result in pressurization of the cell at its first charging cycle, e.g., due to loading of the anode with charge carriers such as lithium. The pressure adjuster described herein can aid in maintaining overpressure in the system without having to put pressure during buffering, e.g., the adjuster can establish a threshold (e.g., minimal) overpressure in the target device during formation without having to buffer the cell. A rough exposed surface of charge carrier plating may remain throughout the life of the battery, and may compromise function of the battery, e.g., due to depletion of charge carriers and / or due to causing a short (e.g., as a consequence of dendrite formation from an electrode to its counter electrode). In some examples, the geometry of a battery may include a side gap located adjacent to a cell, to enable electrolyte to flow into the gap during buffering.

[0085] In some embodiments, a cell comprises an electrode (e.g., reference electrode), a counter electrode, separated from each other by a gap, also referred to herein as “a separation space.” The separation space may comprise a separator, e.g., having a material comprising conduits or pores, e.g., micro conduits, or micropores. The pores and / or conduits may beAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOconfigured to facilitate charge carriers (e.g., ions) to propagate through the separator. The conduits may be channels. Pores of the separator may form the conduit. The battery cell may comprise, or may be coupled with, an insulator such as a dynamic insulator. The battery cell may comprise, or may be coupled with, a dividing space. At least one component may be electrically insulating, e.g., the separator body, the insulator, or at least one component of the dividing space. The dividing space and the separating space may or may not have the same material content. A divider material may be disposed in the dividing space. The dividing material may or may not be of the same type of material as the separator. The separator may be (e.g., substantially) a plane, or a layer. The separator may be an ionically permeable microporous material suitable for use as a separator in an electrochemical cell. In some embodiments, the separator layer is coated with ceramic particles on one or both sides. In some embodiments, a cell includes an anode current collector in the center, which may comprise or be electrically coupled with, one of the electrode tabs on one of the sides of the secondary battery. In some implementations, the unit cell includes the anodically active material layer, the separator layer, the cathodically active material layer, and a cathode current collector in a stacked formation along a stacking axis. The cathode current collector may comprise a cathode tab devoid of cathode active material. The anode current collector may comprise an anode tab devoid of anode active material. The anode tab may be disposed at the same side of the cathode tab, or at a different side such as an opposing side.

[0086] In some embodiments, the cathode includes cathodically active material. The cathodically active material may include a cathodically active material including transition metal oxides, transition metal sulfides, transition metal nitrides, lithium-transition metal oxides, lithium-transition metal sulfides, lithium-transition metal nitrides, any plurality thereof, and / or any combination thereof. The cathodically active material may include transition metal elements of the transition metal oxides, transition metal sulfides, transition metal nitrides, any plurality thereof, and / or any combination thereof. The cathodically active material may include metal elements having a d-shell or f-shell. The cathodically active material may comprise metal element including Sc, Y, lanthanoids, actinoids, Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Mn, Tc, Re, Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pb, Pt, Cu, Ag, Au, any plurality thereof, and / or any combination thereof. The cathodically active material may include lithium cobalt oxide (IJCOO2), LiNio5Mn1.5O4, Li(NixCoyAlz)O2, lithium metal phosphate (e.g., lithium iron phosphate, LiFePO4), Li2MnO4, V2O5, molybdenum oxysulfides, phosphates, silicates, vanadates, sulfur, sulfur compounds, oxygen (air), lithium nickel manganese cobalt oxide (Li(NixMnyCoz)O2), any combinations thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. In some implementations, the cathode (e.g., cathodicallyAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOactive material) is selected from transition metal oxides, transition metal sulfides, transition metal nitrides, lithium-transition metal oxides, lithium-transition metal sulfides, transition-metal phosphates, lithium-transition-metal phosphates, and lithium-transition metal nitrides may be selectively used. The transition metal elements of these transition metal oxides, transition metal sulfides, and transition metal nitrides can include metal elements having a d-shell or f-shell. Specific examples of such metal element are Sc, Y, lanthanides, actinides, Ti, Zr, Hf, V, Nb, Ta, Cr, Mo, W, Mn, Tc, Re, Fe, Ru, Os, Co, Rh, Ir, Ni, Pb, Pt, Cu, Ag, and Au. Additional cathode active materials include LiCoO2, LiNio.5Mn1.5O4, Li(NixCoyAlz)O2, LiFePO4, Li2MnO4, V2O5, molybdenum oxysulfides, phosphates, silicates, vanadates, sulfur, sulfur compounds, oxygen (air), Li(NixMnyCoz)O2, and combinations thereof. The cathode active material may comprise, S (e.g., U2S in the lithiated state), LiF, Fe, Cu, Ni, FeF2, FeOdF3.2d, FeFs, C0F3, C0F2, CuFa, NiFa, where 0<d<0.5, metal oxides, metal sulfides, metal phosphates, binders, fillers, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. The filler may be inert to the chemistry of the target device, e.g., chemistry of the cell. The binders may include polyvinylidene difluoride and / or polytetrafluoroethylene. The cathode may comprise LCO, NCM, LFP, LMO, Nickel, Lithium manganese Iron phosphate, lithium manganese iron phosphate, sodium-ion, nickel, manganese rich lithium, lithiated cobalt oxide, lithiated manganese oxide, lithiated nickel-manganese-cobalt oxide, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The cathode (e.g., and the target device) may be devoid of cobalt. The cathode active material may comprise a dopant. The dopant may comprise at least one type of elemental metal. The at least one type of elemental metal may comprise aluminum, a transition metal, a rare earth metal, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0087] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device may comprise a battery. The target device may comprise Li-ion batteries, nickel metal hydride batteries, alkaline batteries, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The battery may include a cell comprising Cu, Al, Ni, polyethylene, polypropylene, any derivatives thereof, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0088] In some embodiments, the anode includes anodically active material. The anodically active material may include silicon (Si), germanium (Ge), tin (Sn), lead (Pb), antimony (Sb), bismuth (Bi), zinc (Zn), aluminum (Al), titanium (Ti), nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), any combination thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. The anodically active material may include alloys and / or intermetallic compounds including Si, C, Ge, Sn, Pb, Sb, Bi, Zn, Al, Ti, Ni, Co, Cd, any combination thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. The anodically active material may include alloys, and / or intermetallic compounds. The anodically active material may include oxides,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcarbides, nitrides, sulfides, phosphides, selenides, tellurides of Si, Ge, Sn, Pb, Sb, Bi, Zn, Al, Ti, Fe, Ni, Co, V, or Cd, any combination thereof, or any plurality thereof. The anodically active material may include mixtures (e.g., containing Lithium), composites (e.g., containing Lithium), any combination thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. The anodically active material may include salts (e.g., of Sn), hydroxides (e.g., of Sn), lithium titanate, lithium manganate, lithium aluminate, lithium-containing titanium oxide, lithium transition metal oxide, ZnCo2C>4, particles of graphite, particles of carbon, metal form of the charge carriers (e.g., lithium metal), any combinations thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. The anodically active material may be coated. The coating may comprise stabilized metal form of the charge carrier material (e.g., lithium metal particles). The particulate material may include lithium carbonate-stabilized lithium metal powder, lithium silicate stabilized lithium metal powder, other source of stabilized lithium metal powder or ink, any combination thereof, and / or any plurality thereof. The anode active material may comprise a material intercalating the charge carriers. The active material of the anode may include silicon and / or an allotrope of elemental carbon. The allotrope of elemental carbon may be any of the ones disclosed herein, e.g., active carbon, graphite, carbon fiber, carbon nanotube, amorphous carbon, and / or a fullerene. The tubular structures may comprise nested tubes, e.g., at least 2, or 3 nested tubes. The carbon fibers may be weaved, aligned (e.g., in parallel and / or at an angle relative to each other), randomly situated, or any combination thereof, as applicable. The anode may be a nearly (e.g., substantially) 100% silicon - carbon anode. The anode may comprise particulate material. The anode may comprise a carbon scaffold on which silicon is deposited (e.g., layer of silicon). An exposed surface of the silicon may be coated by the, or by at least one other, of the allotropes of elemental carbon. The carbon may comprise black carbon. The carbon may include hard carbon and / or soft carbon. The carbon-silicon structure may comprise successive layers and / or scaffold. The carbon may comprise a particulate material. The particulate material may serve as a base for deposition of the one or mor layers. The particulate material may or may not include crevices. The one or more layers may be deposited onto an exposed surface of the crevices. Anodically active materials may comprise carbon materials such as graphite and soft or hard carbons, or graphene (e.g., single-walled or multi-walled carbon nanotubes), or any of a range of metals, semi-metals, alloys, oxides, nitrides, compounds capable of intercalating lithium, compounds forming an alloy with lithium, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. Specific examples of the metals or semi-metals that may be used as the anode material include graphite, tin, lead, magnesium, aluminum, boron, gallium, silicon, Si-C composites, Si / graphite blends, silicon oxide (SiOx), porous Si, intermetallic Si alloys, indium, zirconium, germanium, bismuth, cadmium, antimony, silver, zinc,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOarsenic, hafnium, yttrium, lithium, sodium, graphite, carbon, lithium titanate, palladium, mixtures thereof, any plurality thereof, or any other combination thereof. In some implementations, the anodically active material may comprise aluminum, tin, silicon, an oxide thereof, a nitride thereof, a fluoride thereof, other alloy thereof, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. In some implementations, the anodically active material may comprise silicon, an alloy thereof, a composite thereof, an oxide thereof, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the battery may be without an active material (e.g., simple cell).

[0089] In some embodiments, the electrode has an excess of active material binding sites for the charge carriers than the counter-electrode, e.g., molar excess. The excess in binding sites can be at least about 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%. The excess in binding sites can be at most about 50%, 40%, 30%, 20%, or 10%. The excess in binding sites between the electrode and the counter electrode can be between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5% to about 50%, from about 5% to about 20%, or from about 15% to about 50%. The electrode can be an anode and the counter electrode - a cathode.

[0090] In some embodiments, the active material is compressed to form a densified active material cake coupled with a current collector, e.g., as part of the electrode and / or counter electrode. The density of the active material coupled with the current collector, may be at least about 0.5 grams per centimeter squared (g / cc), 0.8 g / cc, 1 g / cc, 2 g / cc , 3 g / cc, 4 g / cc, 4.2 g / cc or 5 g / cc. The density of the active material coupled with the current collector, may be at most about 4.5 g / cc, 5 g / cc, 6 g / cc, or 8 g / cc. The density of the active material coupled with the current collector sheet, may be between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 0.5 g / cc to about 8 g / cc, from about 0.5 g / cc to about 1 g / cc, or from about 2 g / cc to about 5 g / cc. In some embodiments, the density of the electrode active material is different from the density of the counter electrode active material, e.g., higher. The electrode can be a cathode, and the counter electrode an anode. In some embodiments, the density of the electrode active material is higher than the density of the counter electrode active material, e.g., by at least about 1.5*, 2*, 3*, 4*, or 5*, with the symbol “*” designating the mathematical operation of multiplication. High densities or high press densities refer to electrode coatings compacted by a calendaring operation to a density of at least 4gr / cc, or above. The densification may be accomplished by using a heavy roller, e.g., weighing at least about 1 ton (T), 2T, 3T, or 4T. The calendaring may be pressure controlled or height controlled, e.g., using a controls system such as disclosed herein. The calendering may be achieved, e.g., through a height-controlled operation. The height-controlled operation may set a fixed gap between the rollers, or between a roller and aAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOsurface, e.g., a gap of at most about 20 pm, 40 pm, 60 pm, 80 pm, or 100 pm, such as to define the active material thickness.

[0091] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device comprises an electrochemical cell. The cell may comprise an electrode and a counter-electrode separated from each other by a gap. The target device may comprise a simple galvanic cell, e.g., comprising passive electrodes. The simple cell may comprise anode current collector, cathode current collector separated from the anode current collector by a gap, an electrolyte, and charge carriers. The cell may comprise partially active electrodes - one current collector contacting an active material mass. The mass can be a layer. The cell may comprise fully active electrodes - both electrode and counter-electrode current collectors of the cell, each contacting a respective active material mass, e.g., a layer.

[0092] In some examples, the energy manipulation device may comprise a fuel cell. In other examples, the energy manipulation device may comprise a primary battery, which may be a non-rechargeable battery. The primary battery may be a battery comprising Li metal, alkaline, zinc-carbon, silver-oxide, and / or any other suitable material. In some examples, the energy manipulation device may comprise a secondary battery, which may be rechargeable. The secondary battery may be a battery comprising Li ion, lead acid (lead dioxide with sulfuric acid), nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride, and / or any other suitable material. The use of a secondary battery or rechargeable battery may enable a reduction in environmental waste, as the materials may be reused for multiple cycles as compared to a primary or non-rechargeable battery. In some examples, the energy manipulation device described herein may comprise an electrochemical cell. As noted above, the cell may include an anode material and a cathode material. In an example, an electrochemical cell comprises passive electrodes, wherein the simple electrochemical cell includes an anode charge carrier, a cathode charge carrier separated from the anode by a gap, an electrolyte and charge carriers. In some examples, the energy manipulation device may comprise one or more active electrodes, wherein one charge carrier is in contact with an active material mass. The active material mass can comprise (e.g., be deposited in a form of) a layer. In some examples, the energy manipulation device may comprise one or more fully active electrodes, wherein the electrode and / or counter electrode charge carriers of a cell each contact a respective active material mass, e.g., a layer. The active material mass is configured to operatively coupled with its respective current collector of the electrode. The current collector may have an electrical conductivity of at least about 103Siemens / cm (S / cm), 104S / cm, 105S / cm, or 106S / cm. The current collector may have anAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrical conductivity between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 103S / cm to about 106S / cm, or from about 105S / cm to about 106S / cm.

[0093] In some examples, the cell comprises an active material, a charge carrier, an electrolyte, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The active material (e.g., mass such as layer) may be added to one side or to both sides of a cell or cell stack. In some embodiments, the electrode comprises a current collector (e.g., conductor) comprising elemental metal, metal alloys, an allotrope of elemental carbon, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The allotrope of elemental metal may comprise graphite, carbon nanotubes, carbon wires, fullerenes, hard carbon, soft carbon, active carbon, carbon black, acetylene black, Ketjen black, cylindrical carbon nanotubes, carbon fibers, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The nanotubes and / or nanowires, may be nested or nonnested. The cell may comprise charge carriers comprising salts such as lithium salts. The electrolyte material may comprise solid, semi-solid, liquid, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The electrolyte materials may include salts, acids, and / or bases, e.g., dissolved in non-aqueous polar solvent(s). In some embodiments, the electrolyte may comprise a polymer-based electrolyte. The polymer-based electrolyte may include PEO-based polymer electrolyte, polymer-ceramic composite electrolyte, polymer-ceramic composite electrolyte, polymer-ceramic composite electrolyte, and / or similar such electrolytes. In some embodiments, the electrolyte may include an oxide-based electrolyte (e.g., lanthanum titanate (Lio.34Lao.56TiO3), Al-doped lithium lanthanum zirconate (Li6.24La3ZrzAlo.24011.98), Ta-doped lithium lanthanum zirconate (Li6.4La3Zri.4Tao.6012), lithium aluminum titanium phosphate (Lit.4Alo.4Tit.6(PO4)3), and / or similar such electrolytes. In some embodiments, the electrolyte may comprise a solid electrolyte (e.g., sulfide-based electrolyte such as lithium tin phosphorus sulfide (LiioSnP2Si2), lithium phosphorus sulfide (13-U3PS4), lithium phosphorus sulfur chloride iodide (Li6PS5C1o.91o.i), and / or similar such electrolytes. The electrolyte may comprise ethylene carbonate, diethylcarbonate, dimethylcarbonate, ethylmethylcarbonate, propylene carbonate, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0094] Fig. 1 shows in example 100 a schematic representation of a cell, the cell comprising an electrode 102a - “C” (e.g., a cathode), and an opposing electrode which is a counter electrode 105a - “A” (e.g., an anode). A separator is disposed in separator space (e.g., gap) 103 - “B.” The battery cell is disposed in a battery having housing 109. The housing can be rigid, or flexible. The housing may include a rigid portion and / or a flexible portion. The battery can optionally have an insulator 104. The insulator may comprise one or more materials comprising a ceramic, a polymer, or a resin. The battery may comprise one or more insulator types. In anAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOexample, a polymer may fill a cathode gap, and alumina fills a cathode gap, the gap being from the edge of the cell to its immediately adjacent edge of the case (also herein “casing”). In some embodiments, insulator may comprise a non-electrically conductive material. The ceramic may comprise alumina (AI2O3), zirconia (ZnC>2), magnesium oxide (MgO), boron nitride (BN), mullite, boehmite, or silicon carbide (SiC, e.g., in pure form). Under normal conditions during use of the battery, the main current is a load current 106 passing from one electrode to its opposing electrode, and through separation space 103. When volume 104 comprises the insulator, the insulator contacts at least at opposing sides 102b and 102c of electrode 102a and at opposing sides 105b and 105c of counter-electrode 105a.

[0095] Fig. 1 shows in example 110 a schematic representation of a cell, the cell comprising an electrode 112 - “C” (e.g., a cathode), and an opposing electrode which is a counter electrode 115 - “A” (e.g., an anode). A separator is disposed in separator space 113 - “B.” The battery cell is disposed in a battery having housing 119. The separation space extends 121 beyond electrode 112, and extends 122 beyond counter electrode 115, the extension being along a long axis of each of the electrode, the long axis depicted in Fig. 1. The extension can extend longer in the lateral direction. The extension can form the tab. The battery has an insulator 114. Under the normal conditions, the load current 116 may be passing through separation space 113.

[0096] In some embodiments, the different extension distances of the components of the cell in the lateral direction, form a corrugated (e.g., misaligned) face of the cell, and thus a set of the cells, e.g., as depicted in Fig. 1, 120 for a cell. The cell can comprise at least one uneven side, e.g., as is depicted in Fig. 1, 120. The uneven (e.g., misaligned) side can create a wavy side of a set of cells.

[0097] Fig. 2 shows a schematic example 200 of a current collector in the form of a film or strip. The electrode active material may contact (e.g., be deposited onto) a conductive sheet, e.g., having a thickness of at most about 6 millimeters (mm), 5mm, 2.5mm, 1 mm, or 0.5mm. The conductive sheet may be a foil, e.g., having a thickness of at most about 0.4mm, 0.2 mm, or 0.1mm. The current collector may comprise an internal portion, e.g., when assembled in the battery. The internal portion of the current collector contacts the active material of the electrode. The tab may be (e.g., substantially) devoid of the electrode active material. The current collector has a length axis and a width, and a height. The current collector has a face type having a largest surface area, the face type including sections 201 , and 202. The current collector has a length 203, a width 204, and a height 205. Section 202 designates the tab of the current collector that can bend upon assembly of the energy manipulation device such as to couple with a busbar, and section 201 designates the planar section of the current collector that can coupleAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOwith an electrode active material, e.g., a powder with binder(s) and / or filler(s). In the example shown in 200, the tabs assume the same width 204 along their length. In some embodiments, the tabs contract (e.g., narrow such as taper) along their length, e.g., and along the longest axis 211. Longest axis 211 of the current collector intersects position 214 on a face of the electrode having height 205 and width 204, which face has the smallest surface area in the example of 200. The current collector has a shorter axis 212 normal to axis 211. The contraction of the tabs along axis 211 may be symmetrical about axis 211, e.g., using a mirror symmetry, the mirror being along axis 211.

[0098] In some embodiments, the current collector may be an anode current collector. In some embodiments, the current collector may be a cathode current collector. The anode current collector may comprise a conductive material such as copper, carbon, nickel, stainless-steel, cobalt, titanium, and tungsten, and alloys thereof, or any other material suitable as an anode current collector layer. The current collector has an electrical conductivity of at least about 103 Siemens / cm, 104 Siemens / cm, or 105 Siemens / cm. The current collector has an electrical conductivity between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 103 Siemens / cm to about 105 Siemens / cm. The cathode current collector may comprise aluminum, nickel, cobalt, titanium, and tungsten, or alloys thereof, or any other material suitable for use as a cathode current collector layer. In some embodiments, the cathode current collector comprises a metal such as aluminum, carbon, chromium, gold, nickel, NiP, palladium, platinum, rhodium, ruthenium, an alloy of silicon and nickel, titanium, or a combination thereof. In an example, a cathode current collector comprises gold or an alloy thereof such as gold silicide. By way of further example, in one embodiment, a cathode current collector comprises nickel or an alloy thereof such as nickel silicide.

[0099] Fig. 2 shows in example 250, a schematic vertical cross section of various batteries, showing arrangement and / or folding of battery cells with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. In example 251, battery cells are arranged parallel to each other. Examples 252-255 show various folding of a sheet comprising one or more battery cells, with 252 showing a zigzag fold, 253 showing a top hat fold, 254 showing a sinusoidal type fold, 255 showing a spiral (e.g., rolling) fold, and 256 an oval or oblong spiral (e.g., rolling) fold. The battery may comprise a battery cell folded in a wound (e.g., jelly roll) configuration having an oblong or cylindrical configuration, e.g., as shown in Fig. 7, 750.

[0100] In some embodiments, one or more cells are disposed within a housing to form the target device, e.g., battery. The housing may insulate the battery from one or more reactive agents (also referred to herein as “reactive species”) in the ambient environment external to theAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOtarget device. The reactive agent(s) may comprise oxygen, water, alcohol, thiol, sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, carboxylic acid, hydrogen sulfide, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. The reactive agent(s) may be oxygen based, sulfur based, and / or phosphorous based. The reactive agent(s) may include water and / or oxygen. In an example, the reactive agent(s) comprise water in a liquid and / or vapor form. The water may be in the form of droplets. The housing may be configured to separate and / or insulate the cell(s) from the reactive agent(s) present in the ambient environment external to the target device, e.g., to curtail (e.g., hinder, or prevent) reactive agent(s) from reaching the cell such as including reaching the electrode(s) and any fuse of the target device.

[0101] The energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) is of a (e.g., Euclidean) three-dimensional (3D) geometric shape. The device may have an asymmetrical shape, e.g., its housing may be asymmetrical in shape. The Euclidean 3D shape may comprise a cylinder or a prism. The prism may be a Euclidean prism, or an amorphous prism. In some embodiments, the battery is a prismatic battery. In some embodiments, the battery is a cylindrical battery. The battery may have a first FLS such as a height (e.g., Fig. 3, 331) of at least about 1 millimeters (mm), 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, or 10mm. The first FLS of the battery may be of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 1mm to about 10mm. The battery may have a second FLS such as a length (e.g., Fig. 3, 332) of at least about at least about 10 millimeters (mm), 50mm, 100mm, 150mm, or 200mm. The second FLS of the battery may be of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10mm to about 200mm. The battery and / or cell assembly, may have an aspect ratio of the second FLS to the first FLS of at least about 2:1, 3.5:1 5:1, 8:1, 10:1, 15:1, 20:1 , 25:1, 35:1, or 50:1. The battery and / or cell assembly, may have an aspect ratio of the second FLS to the first FLS between any of the aforementioned values, e.g. , from about 5: 1 to about 50: 1 , or from 2:1 to 50: 1. The battery and / or cell assembly, may have a third FLS such as a width (e.g., Fig. 3, 333) of at least about at least about 10 millimeters (mm), 30mm, 50mm, 100mm, 150mm, or 200mm. The third FLS of the battery may be of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10mm to about 200mm. The battery and / or cell assembly, may have an aspect ratio of the third FLS to the first FLS of at least about 2: 1 , 3.5: 1 5: 1 , 8: 1 , 10: 1 , 15: 1 , 20: 1 , 25: 1 , 35: 1 , 50: 1 , 75: 1 , or 100:1. The battery and / or cell assembly, may have an aspect ratio of the third FLS to the first FLS between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5:1 to about 50:1, or from 2:1 to 100:1. The electrode (e.g., portion comprising the active material) may have an aspect ratio of the second FLS to the first FLS of at least about 2:1, 3.5:1 5:1, 8:1, 10:1, 15:1, 20:1, 25:1, 35:1, or 50:1. The electrode (e.g., portion comprising the active material) may have an aspectAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOratio of the second FLS to the first FLS between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5:1 to about 50:1 , or from 2:1 to 50:1. The electrode (e.g., portion comprising the active material) may have an aspect ratio of the third FLS to the first FLS of at least about 2:1, 3.5:1 5:1, 8:1, 10:1, 15:1, 20:1, 25:1, 35:1, 50:1, 75:1, or 100:1. The electrode (e.g., portion comprising the active material) may have an aspect ratio of the third FLS to the first FLS between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5:1 to about 50:1, or from 2:1 to 100:1.

[0102] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) may be light weight. The weight of the battery may be relative to its dimensionality, capacity (Amph), voltage, cycle life, or any combination thereof, e.g., The weight of the battery may be at most about 1.0 grams (gr), 1.5gr, 2gr, 5gr, 8gr, 10gr, 50gr, 100gr, 150 gr, 200gr, 250gr, 500gr, 700gr, or 1000gr. The weight of the battery may be of any value between the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 1 gr to about 1000 gr, from about 1 gr to about 50 gr, from about 10gr to about 100 gr, from about 50gr to about 500 gr, or from about 200gr to about 1000 gr.

[0103] Fig. 3 shows schematic perspective view examples of energy manipulation devices such as batteries and battery cell architectures therein, relative to a Cartesian coordinate system. Example 300 shows a cylindrical battery housing having a length 302 and height 301, which is a diameter. The battery may comprise cell(s) that form a rolled sheet. In example 300, each of the bottom and top faces of the cylinder has a smaller surface area as compared to the side surface of the cylinder - to the curved surface of the cylinder. Example 330 shows a prismatic battery housing that is a rectangular prism, or a cuboid. The battery has length 332, height 331, and width 333. Battery cells 335 are stacked in the battery along height 331, and along the Z direction. In example 330, face XY has a larger surface area than face XZ, and face XY has a larger surface area than face YZ. Example 350 shows a prismatic battery housing that is a rectangular prism, or a cuboid. The battery has length 352, height 351, and width 353. Battery cells 335 are stacked in the battery along length 352, and along the X direction. In example 350, face XY has a larger surface area than face XZ, and face XY has a larger surface area than face YZ.

[0104] In some embodiments, the target device such as battery comprises battery cells. The battery cells may be stacked along an axis. A dividing space may be disposed between every two immediately adjacent cells such that a first cell contacts the first face of the dividing space, and a second cell contacts a second face of the dividing space opposing its first space. The dividing space may comprise an insulator, e.g., any insulator disclosed herein. The insulator may or may not comprise the dynamic insulator. The dividing space may be configured toAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrically separate one cell from another. The stack of cells may follow a pattern, the pattern may comprise a sequence. The sequence may comprise an arrangement of components of the battery cell with respect to each other. The sequence may comprise an anode, a separation space, a cathode, and a dividing space. The sequence may follow a CBAS pattern, or a CBASABCS pattern, with “C” designating a cathode, “B” designating a separation space, “A” designating an anode, “S” designating the dividing space, and “E” designates an end plate, e.g., see Fig. 4. The cells may be stacked in one or more groups. The separation space may comprise two opposing faces. A face of the separation space contacting the anode, and an opposing face contacting the cathode. The cell may comprise components comprising an anode, a cathode, a separation space, and an optional dividing space. The dividing space may comprise the same type of material as the separation space. The dividing space and the separation space may be (e.g., substantially) the same. The components of the cell may be disposed along an axis. The components of the cell may be (e.g., substantially) symmetrically arranged along the axis, e.g., in mirror symmetry, the mirror plane running along the axis, and / or in a rotational symmetry, the rotational axis running along the cell stacking axis (e.g., parallel to axis 490 in Fig. 4). At least two components of the cell may extend in a direction (e.g., substantially) perpendicular to the cell stacking axis at a (e.g., substantially) same distance. At least two components of the cell may extend in a direction (e.g., substantially) perpendicular to the cell stacking axis (e.g., laterally) at a different distance from that axis. The different distance extension of the components can form a corrugated (e.g., misaligned) face of the cell, and of the set of cells, e.g., as depicted in Fig. 1, 120. See also sides (e.g., edges) of cell sets in Fig. 4, 400, and 450. In an example, the cathode extends less than the anode, the extension being in a direction perpendicular to the cell stacking axis. In an example, the separation space extends more than the anode and / or more than the cathode, the extension being in a direction perpendicular to the cell stacking axis. The endplate and the rigid constraint portion may be of the same material type or of different material types. For example, the endplate and the rigid constraint portion may comprise stainless steel. For example, the rigid constraint portion may comprise stainless steel (e.g., SS-301 or SS-316), and the endplates may comprise aluminum. The rigid constraint portion may comprise stainless steel, or Inconel. Any portion of the constraint system (e.g., the rigid constraint portion) may comprise a coating, e.g., a lacquer. The coating may comprise ClearClad, polyimide, or an electrodeposition coating. The electrodeposition coating may comprise Shimizu type coating. The coating may hinder deposition of charge carrier plating such as lithium plating, e.g., during use of the cell assembly.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0105] Fig. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional example 400 of a battery comprising cathode 402, anode 405, separation space 403, and dividing space 407. The battery cells are disposed in volume 404 of the battery that can include an insulator such as a dynamic insulator. The battery cells are stacked along an axis 490, in a repeating CBAS arrangement. Each anode “A” in the battery includes an anode current collector such as 413, the anode current collectors being coupled in parallel to a main anode current collector 414 - an anode busbar, ending with anode contact 411 forming a terminal tab. Each cathode “C” in the battery includes a cathode current collector such as 416, the cathode current collectors being coupled in parallel to a main cathode current collector 417 - cathode busbar, ending with cathode contact 412 - terminal cathode tab.

[0106] Fig. 4 shows a schematic cross-sectional example 450 of a battery comprising cathode 452, anode 455, separation space 453, and dividing space 457. The battery cells are disposed in volume 454 of the battery that can include an insulator such as a dynamic insulator. The battery cells are stacked along an axis 490, in a repeating CBASABCS arrangement. Each anode “A” in the battery includes a current collector such as 463, the anode current collectors being coupled in parallel to a main anode current collector 464 (e.g., busbar), ending with anode contact 461 - terminal anode tab. Each cathode “C” in the battery is operatively coupled (e.g., connected) with a cathode current collector such as 466, the cathode current collectors being coupled in parallel to a main cathode current collector 467 (e.g., busbar), ending with cathode contact 462 - terminal cathode tab. In Fig. 4, the main cathode current collector is disposed on a different face of the set of cells as the main anode current collector, which is the opposing face.

[0107] In some embodiments, the battery comprises one or more main current collectors, e.g., as disclosed herein. The main current collector may include a busbar and / or a busbar extender. The main current collectors may or may not contact the insulator covering the edges of the cells. In the example shown in Fig. 4, 400, the main current collectors 417 and 414, are separated from the insulator 404 by a gap. In the example shown in 400, the main current collectors 417 and 414 contact the insulator 404.

[0108] In some embodiments, an end plate is disposed at a distal end of a cell set, e.g., at opposing distal ends of the set of cells and along the cell’s stacking axis (e.g., Fig. 4, 490). Fig.4, 400 shows an example of two opposing end plates disposed at both distal ends of a set of stacked cells, the end plates designed by “E,” the end plate 420 contacting the insulator at its opposing lateral ends. Fig. 4, 450 shows an example of two opposing end plates disposed atAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOboth distal ends of a set of stacked cells, the end plates designed by “E,” the end plate is devoid of the insulator at its two opposing lateral ends - normal to stacking axis 490.

[0109] In some embodiments, an energy storage device such as a battery, comprises a plurality of cells. The energy manipulation device is of a (e.g., Euclidean) three-dimensional (3D) geometric shape. The energy manipulation device may have an asymmetrical shape, e.g., its housing may be asymmetrical in shape. The Euclidean 3D shape may comprise a cylinder or a prism. The prism may be a Euclidean prism, or an amorphous prism. In some embodiments, the battery is a prismatic battery. In some embodiments, the battery is a cylindrical battery. The battery may have a first FLS such as a height (e.g., Fig. 3, 331) of at least about 1 millimeter (mm), 2mm, 3mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, or 10mm. The first FLS of the battery may be of any value between the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 1mm to about 10mm. The battery may have a second FLS such as a length (e.g., Fig. 3, 332) of at least about at least about 10 millimeters (mm), 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 70mm, 80mm, 100mm, 150mm, or 200mm. The battery may have a third FLS such as a width (e.g., 3, 333) of at least about at least about 5 millimeters (mm), 9mm, 10mm, 20mm, 30mm, 40mm, 50mm, 70mm, 80mm, 100mm, 150mm, or 200mm. The third FLS of the battery may be of any value between the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5 mm to about 200mm. The battery may have an aspect ratio of the second FLS to the first FLS of at least about 1:1, 1.5:1, 2:1, 4:1, 5: 1 , 8: 1 , 10:1 , 15: 1 , 20: 1 , 25: 1 , 30: 1 , 35: 1 , 50: 1 , or 100: 1. The battery may have an aspect ratio of the second FLS to the first FLS between the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 1 : 1 to about 10:1, from about 1 : 1 to about 50: 1 , from about 1 : 1 to about 100: 1 , or from about 2:1 to about 50:1. The FLS (e.g., from the first FLS and second FLS) may comprise a length, a width, a height, a diameter, or any other FLS such as disclosed herein.

[0110] In some embodiments, an energy manipulation (e.g., storage) device such as a battery, comprises a plurality of cells. Each of the cells comprises an anode separated by a gap from a cathode. The gap may comprise a separator. The cell may comprise one or more electrolyte types. Each of the electrodes (e.g., anode and cathode) comprises a current collector, e.g., a strip, a foil, or a film, of conductive material on which the active electrode material is disposed of. The conductive material may comprise an elemental metal, a metal alloy, or an allotrope of elemental carbon. In an example, the elemental metal comprises aluminum or copper. In an example, the metal alloy may comprise stainless steel. In an example, the allotrope of elemental carbon may comprise carbon nanotubes, or carbon fibers. The tubular structures (e.g., nanotubes) may comprise nestled tubes, e.g., at least about 2, 3, 4, or more nestled tubes. The carbon fibers may be weaved, randomly dispersed, or any combination thereof. The strip ofAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOconductive material may or may not comprise a composite material. At least two cells in the energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) may be stacked in a direction (e.g., substantially) normal to their face having the largest surface area. The electrode has an electrode face having the largest surface area, and the counter-electrode has a counter-electrode face having the largest surface area. In some embodiments, there is a difference in a volume of the cell between a state of charge and a state of discharge of an electrode of the cell. The volume of the cell may repeatedly and / or reversibly alter between the state of charge and the state of discharge repeatedly. The reversible discharge may not be completely reversible, e.g., there may be an attrition in the properties of one or more components of the cell during a cycle of charge / discharge. The repeated cycling between the state of charge / discharge may comprise at least about 150 cycles, 200 cycles, 250 cycles, 300 cycles, 400 cycles, 500 cycles, 700 cycles, 800 cycles, 1000 cycles, 1200 cycles, or 1500 cycles. The repeated cycling between the state of charge / discharge may comprise any value of cycle between any of the aforementioned cycles, e.g., from about 150 cycles to about 1500 cycles. In some embodiments, there is a difference in a volume of the cell between a state of charge and a state of discharge of an electrode of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in at most about 20*, 25*, 50*, 100*, 200*, 300*, or 400* of an initial volume of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in at least about 10*, 25*, 50*, 100*, 200*, or 300* of an initial volume of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10* to about 400*, from about 100* to about 400*, or from about 20* to about 200*. The symbol “*” designates the mathematic operation of multiplication.

[0111] The energy manipulation device may comprise at least one constraint (e.g., a brace, or a harness). The constraint may be configured to (e.g., substantially) maintain constant dimensions and / or volume of the target device during the charge / discharge operations. The constraint may be configured to maintain internal pressure in the target device, e.g., during the charge / discharge operations. The internal overpressure in the target device may be at most about 100PSI, 150PSI, 200PSI, 500PSI, 1000 PSI, 2000 PSI, 3000 PSI, 5000PSI, or 10000PSI. The internal overpressure in the target device may be at most about 50 PSI, 100PSI, 150PSI, 200PSI, 500PSI, 1000 PSI, 2000 PSI, 3000 PSI, or 5000PSI. The internal overpressure in the target device may be between the above referenced pressures, e.g., from about 50PSI to about 10000 PSI, from about 50PSI to about 500PSI, or from about 50PSI to about 2000PSI, or from about 100PSI to about 3000PSI. The internal overpressure in the target device may be greater than the ambient pressure external to the target device, e.g., above 14.6 PSI. In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device has a face type having the largest surface areaAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOamong its face types. The face a face type having the largest surface area may deform (e.g., bend) during the, or as a consequence of, the overpressure phase. The face type having the largest surface area may (e.g., substantially) reversibly deform during the life of the target device. Substantial reversal of the face’s deformation may be within the specification and / or intended use of the target device.

[0112] In some embodiments, the battery cell set is disposed in an orthogonal stacked configuration.

[0113] In some embodiments, the target device comprises a constraint system. The constraint system may be applied over one or both of the X-Y surfaces of the target device (e.g., battery). In some embodiments, the constraint system includes a plurality of perforations to facilitate distribution (e.g., by flow of) an electrolyte solution after the cell, or cell set, has been assembled. In some embodiments, the casing comprises stainless steel, aluminum, titanium, beryllium, beryllium copper (hard), copper (O2 free, and / or hard), nickel, other metals or metal alloys, composite, polymer, ceramic, any plurality thereof, any combination thereof, or any other suitable material as applicable.

[0114] Fig. 5 shows in example 500 an exploded view of a pair of constraints 501a and 501b encasing a set (e.g., a population) of stacked battery cells 502, the pair of constraints being part of a constraint system. Example 550 shows an exploded view in which the two constraints 501 a-b are closer to the stacked cell set 502. Fig. 5 is shown with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. Each of the constraints may curb expansion of the battery cells during charge and / or discharge. Curbing the expansion may or may not be anisotropic. In the example shown in Fig. 5, the constraint can deter expansion of the cells anisotropically along the Y axis.

[0115] In some embodiments, the cell comprises an anode separated by a gap from an anode. The cell may comprise a separator disposed in the gap. The cells may be elongated, e.g., an elongated box. The face of the cell opposing the largest surface area face of the electrode (e.g., anode or cathode) may have an aspect ratio of at least about 10:1, 15:1, 20:1, 35:1, or 50:1, the aspect ratio being a length (e.g., Fig. 6, 631) of the face to a height (e.g., Fig. 6, 632) of that face. The cell may have an aspect ratio between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10:1 to about 50:1, the aspect ratio being the length of the cell to the height. The cell may have an aspect ratio of at least about 5: 1 , 8: 1 , 10: 1 , 15: 1 , 20: 1 , 25: 1 35: 1 , or 50: 1 , the aspect ratio being a height (e.g., Fig. 6, 632) of the cell to a width (e.g., Fig. 6, 604, showing a width of three cells). The cell may have an aspect ratio between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 5:1 to about 50:1 , the aspect ratio being the height of the cell to the width.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0116] Fig. 6 shows in example 600 a lateral portion of three cells, each comprising an electrode such as 601, a counter electrode such as 603, and a separator 602 disposed between each immediately adjacent pair of electrode and counter electrode. In example 600, the electrode (e.g., 601) extends less than the counter electrode 603 to the lateral edge 604 of the stacked cells, with the separator extending more towards the edge than the electrode, and then the counter-electrode, e.g., thus forming a corrugated, or wavy, lateral edge 604. Example 630 shows a stack of cells, e.g., in which the cells are horizontally stacked. The stacking axis of the cells may be parallel to a face of the cell having the largest surface area, e.g., of a prismatic battery such as a rectangular box.

[0117] Example 650 shows a set of stacked cells enclosed by two opposing casings 652a and 652b. Current collectors of the stacked cells are coupled with connectors 653a and 653b. 653a connect to the electrodes of the set of cells, and 653b connects to the counter-electrodes of the set of cells. The cells enclosed by the casings (e.g., housing or case), are further secured by a flexible material 655, e.g., a band. The flexible material may comprise a polymer or a resin. The flexible material may be an electrical insulator. The casing may comprise one or more openings. The openings may be perforations such as 651. In the example of Fig. 6, casing 652a includes oblong openings, e.g., that are evenly spaced along the X direction. Fig. 6 is shown with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system.

[0118] Fig. 7 shows in example 700 an exploded view of a pair of constraints 701a and 701b of a constraint system encasing a set (e.g., a population) of stacked battery cells 702. Each of constraints 701 a-b includes oblong openings, e.g., that are evenly spaced along the X direction. Fig. 7 is shown with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. The constraint may form a cage, e.g., having one or more openings such as slits, e.g., oblong silts or holes.

[0119] In some embodiments, the cell is configured with at least one gap portion that can be occupied during expansion of the active material. The gap may be between the electrode and counter electrode, or adjacent to an edge (e.g., side) of the electrode. Some of the cells described herein comprise gaps located adjacent to the electrode(s), e.g., at side(s) of the electrode(s). These gaps may enable electrolyte to flow into the gaps, e.g., during buffering. Accordingly, when the starting material is added to the target device (whether in an active or inactive state), the starting material can occupy these gaps.

[0120] Example 730b is a microscope image of section 730a. The image shows a set of cells comprising (a) anodes including (i) anode active material such as 731 and (ii) anode current collector such as anode current collector 732; (b) anodes including (iii) anode active material such as 733 and (iv) cathode current collector such as cathode current collector 734; (c)Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOseparators such as separators 735 and 736; and (d) insulating material such as 737. The insulating material 737 is disposed in a side gap at the edge of the electrode. Each cathode is separated from its immediately adjacent anode by a gap, the separator disposed in the gap. In the example shown in 730, a pair of immediately adjacent separators are separated from each other. The separators extend more toward an edge of the set of cells, as compared to the cathode, which extends more towards the edge than the anode. The insulator is disposed in the volume between the set of cells and the edge of the set of cells. The ends of the separators along the z direction alternate between a first pair of immediately adjacent separator ends pointing towards each other, and a second pair of immediately adjacent separator ends pointing away from each other, the ends being along the z direction. For example, the ends of separators 735 and 736 point towards each other. Each anode and cathode in the cell interlace each other along the y direction (e.g., are disposed alternatively), which is the stacking direction of the cells. In the example shown in 730b, (a) the active anode material is disposed at both sides of the respective anode current collector and (b) the active cathode material is, disposed at both sides of the respective cathode current collector, the sides being along the z direction. In the example shown in 730b, (a) the active anode material is disposed on both side of the anode current collector such that it (e.g., substantially, schematically and / or generally) forms a mirroring plane for the anode active material, and (b) the active cathode material is disposed on both side of the cathode current collector such that it (e.g., substantially, schematically and / or generally) forms a mirroring plane for the anode active material.

[0121] Example 760b is a microscope image of section 760a. The image shows a set of cells comprising (a) anodes including (i) anode active material such as 761 and (ii) anode current collector such as anode current collector 762; (b) anodes including (iii) anode active material such as 763 and (iv) cathode current collector such as cathode current collector 764; (c) separators such as separator 765. Each cathode is separated from its immediately adjacent anode by a gap, the separator disposed in the gap. In the example shown in 760a and 760b, the cathode active material extends to the edge of the cell in the X direction, and bends towards the Y direction to electrically connect its immediately adjacent cathode current collector along the Y direction. The bend portions (e.g., tabs) of the cathode current collectors are joined by a material operatively (e.g., electrically) coupling the tabs, including a tacky connector 767, to form a busbar. In the example shown in Fig. 7, the cathode contacts the separator that contacts the anode, which contacts any additional separator in the set of cells. Endplates may be disposed at both end of the set of cells along the stacking direction, e.g., along the Y direction. Fig. 7 shows a spacer member 790. The spacer member 790 is disposed along a stacking axisAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOof the cell assembly. The spacer member 790 is positioned on opposing lateral sides of the cathode current collector 764 (along X axis), e.g., to align the cathode lateral length with an anode lateral length, the lateral axis being normal to the stacking axis (along Y axis). The spacer member 790 has a longitudinal dimension along the stacking axis.

[0122] In some embodiments, the interior of the casing is separated from an exterior of the casing, e.g., to hinder reactive specie(s) in the external environment to traverse to the interior environment such as to cause the harm. Terminals configured to conduct the electrical current flow are configured to allow electrical connectivity of the external environment with the cell(s) disposed in the interior of the housing. The housing comprises a seal to separate the interior environment of the housing from its exterior environment. The terminals extend through the seal from the interior of the housing to the external environment. Each of the terminals can be coupled with the housing (e.g., at the seal area) by coupler. The coupler may comprise a compressible material such as a malleable material. The terminal may be secured to the housing by an adhesive, e.g., at the seal. The terminal may be secured to the seal at least in part by the adhesive and / or by the compressible material. The compressible material may be an adhesive. The compressible material and / or the adhesive, may comprise a polymer, a resin, a combination thereof, or a plurality of types thereof. The adhesive may be (e.g., substantially) confined to the seal. The adhesive may comprise polypropylene or epoxy glue. The susceptible material may participate in the chemistry of the target device, e.g., of the cell. The susceptible material(s) may comprise any of the active materials of the cell, any electrolyte, any separator, any insulator, any divider, any current collector, any busbar, any adhesive, any plurality (e.g., of types or otherwise) thereof, or any combination thereof. The compressible material may be disposed in the seal, in an interior of the housing, in the exterior of the housing, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the terminal is compressed by the compressible material, which is compressed by the seal of the housing.

[0123] In some examples, the battery is disposed in a housing comprising a pouch. The pouch may insulate the battery content (e.g., the cell therein) from one or more reactive agent in the ambient environment external to the pouch. The pouch may enclosure the case of the battery, and the cell(s) housed therein. The pouch may comprise one or more layers. The one or more layers may include a material comprising a polymer, a resin, an elemental metal (e.g., strip, film, foil, and / or powder thereof), or a metal alloy (e.g., strip, film, foil, and / or powder thereof). The one or more layers may include one or more of these materials. The pouch may have an external surface having a color comprising black, silver, or white.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0124] Fig. 8 shows an example of vertical cross sections of various batteries with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system, viewed from a side having a length and a height (e.g., Fig. 3, height 351 and length 352), and depicted as a cross section. Example 800 shows battery cells such as cell 802 stacked in a direction normal to the z axis, the battery having housing 801. During a charge and discharge cycle, the battery expands and contracts. The expansion creates a force in the battery in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the cells and toward the edges of the battery (e.g., along arrows 803), and in a direction along the stacking axis such as along 804. Constraints 807a and 807b are coupled with the cell stack to curb such expansion, e.g., anisotropic constraint configured to deter expansion in . The constraints may limit displacement along the direction of arrows 803 and along 804. The constrain may anisotropically constrain expansion of the cell stack. The constraints 807a-807b are disposed (e.g., located) opposing each other and separated by a gap. Endplates 806a and 806b are disposed between the constraint and the cell stack. Each endplate may contact a distal end of the cell stack along the stacking direction. The endplates and the constraints may be arranged in a mirror symmetry about the stacking axis, e.g., in a (e.g., substantially) mirror symmetry plane running along the stacking axis of the cells. The contraction and expansion may cause pressure buildup inside the battery. Heat may be generated during charge and discharge cycles, e.g., in interior of the cell stack such as along 804. The heat may be dissipated from the battery along arrows 803, e.g., thus increasing the safety of the battery such as by curtailing a thermal runaway reaction. Charge carriers generated from a source (e.g., precursor card) may diffuse into the cell stack in the direction of arrow 805 (e.g., from locations corresponding to arrows 803). Diffusion of charge carriers may occur through perforations in the constraint system (e.g., perforation 651 of Fig. 6).

[0125] In some embodiments, the cell(s) are enclosed in a rigid enclosure surrounding the cell(s). The rigid enclosure may comprise the constraint system and / or endplates. The enclosure may comprise an elemental metal, a metal alloy, an allotrope of elemental carbon, a polymer, a resin, a plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The housing may be made of a material with greater, lesser, or (e.g., substantially) equal hardness compared to the enclosure. In an example, the housing may comprise a pouch having a lesser hardness than the enclosure. The pouch may be nested in a harder housing (e.g., a can), as compared to the enclosure and / or as compared to the pouch. The enclosure may be protected by a protective layer that cushions an interaction between the enclosure and the softer housing. The protection layer (also herein the “protective layer”) may comprise an elastic material, a polymer, a resin, a plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The protective layer may be in the form of a band surrounding sides of the enclosure. The sides may be of side types having smallerAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOsurface area. The sides may be other than side types having the largest surface area. The protection layer may have a thickness, elasticity, and / or durability that enable cushioning of an interaction between the enclosure and the softer housing immediately adjacent thereto. The protection layer may assume a shape of a sponge. The protection layer may or may not be porous. The protection layer may include polyurethane, polypropylene, polyethylene, and / or rubber. The protection layer may be attached to the enclosure by adhesion and / or by being compressed thereto, e.g., similar to a band’s compression. The protective layer may be a pouch protective layer (PPL).

[0126] In an example, a starting material (e.g., for the charge carriers) is supplemented to the cell(s) from outside of the cell(s) and in the housing. The starting material may enter from outside of a constraint system, outside of the endplates, from within the housing (e.g., pouch and / or can), from an interior surface of the housing, from a seal, from a cell protection layer, or any combination thereof. The starting material may enter into the cell (e.g., or cell stack) by diffusion such as along a concentration gradient of the starting material. When the starting material enters the cell stack from a side of the target device having the larges surface area (e.g., top and bottom of device in example 650 of Fig. 6) towards an interior of the cells stack, e.g., Fig. 8, in direction 804 and opposing directions 803. Its entry may be quicker in a configuration where the cell components (e.g., and the cells) are elongated by having a high aspect ratio of height (351) to width (353) and are disposed along an axis parallel to the face of the battery having the largest surface area among face types of the battery, as compared to another cell architecture, e.g., 330 or 300. In an example, when the starting material enters from a side of constraints (Fig. 8, 807a-b), entry into the center of the cell stack (e.g., 804) may be quicker as compared to the starting material entering from a direction normal to 804, e.g., in a direction facing the largest surface area of the electrode such as along the cell stack.

[0127] Example 850 shows battery cell 852 rolled upon itself about an axis normal to the drawing page, e.g., in a wound cell (e.g., jelly roll) type configuration. Battery cell 852 is disposed (e.g. located) in battery housing 851. During a charge and discharge cycle, the battery expands and contracts. The expansion creates a force in the battery in a direction perpendicular to the stacking direction of the cells and towards the edges of the battery, e.g., along arrows 853. One or more constraints may be added to the battery to curb such expansion, e.g., anisotropic constraint configured to deter expansion in the direction of the arrows 853. The contraction and expansion may cause pressure buildup on the battery. Heat may be exerted during the charge and discharge cycles, e.g., in interior of stack 854. The heat may be dissipated from the battery along arrows 853, e.g., thus increasing the safety of the battery suchAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOas by curtailing a runaway reaction. The stacked cell arrangement shown in example 800 may have a better thermal conductivity as compared to the rolled battery configuration shown in 850.

[0128] Fig. 9 schematically shows a cause for the expansion and contraction of a cell during charge and discharge states. Example 900 shows an anode discharge state. Anode active material such as 901 is separated from cathode active material such as 902 by a gap in which separator 903 is disposed. The separator has a perforation (e.g., conduit such as a pinhole) through which charge carriers can transverse from one electrode to its counter electrode.Example 930 shows an anode charged state. Anode active material such as 931 is separated from cathode active material such as 932 by a gap in which separator 933 is disposed. As compared to the anode discharged state shown in example 900, the anode active material is inflated, e.g., expanded. The cathode active material is depicted as occupying (e.g., substantially) the same volume between the charged and discharged state.

[0129] Example 960 shows an anode in which charge carriers are provided. The charge carriers such as 961 (e.g., lithium cation) become surrounded by a mobile electrolyte 962 such as a fluid or semi-fluid electrolyte, e.g., solvent or gel. The charge carriers propagate through solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) 935. Deposition 963 of a reduced from of the charge carriers 966 may occur on at least one edge type of the set of cells (e.g., anode) - at its interface; followed by diffusion of the charge carriers into the electrode active material portion 964, e.g., comprising an allotrope of elemental carbon such as graphite. The deposition may comprise accumulation of the reduced form of the charge carriers at the interface.

[0130] Fig. 10 shows an example of charge carrier (e.g., Lithium) source 1001 located immediately adjacent to an edge of a set of cells in battery 1002. Due to the cell’s arrangement having their stacking direction along the Y axis, and their edges pointing towards opposing sides along the X direction, it may be impractical to diffuse the charge carriers along the stacking axis, e.g., due to longer and / or inhomogeneous diffusion. In this cell set configuration, it may be more beneficial to allow the charge carriers to diffuse from one or both opposing side, e.g., along the X axis and / or along the stacking axis. The example in Fig. 10 is depicted with respect to a Cartesian coordinate system. The stacked cells may span tenths of millimeters in the stacking direction, e.g., at least about 10, 50, or 100 millimeters. The cells may span a length along the stacking axis of at least about 1, 2, 3, 5, 6, or 8 millimeters. The cells may span a length along the stacking axis of at most about 2, 3, 5, 6, 8, or 10 millimeters. The cells of battery 1002 may be held by a constraint system (e.g., Fig. 6, 650). The constraint system may comprise perforations (e.g., holes) that facilitate penetration of the charge carriers from source 1001 through the constraint, to the cells of battery 1002, e.g., the holes in constraint system 501a andAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO501b. The source 1001 may contact one or both opposing sides of the battery. Fig. 10 shows source 1001 contacting one side of battery 1002.

[0131] FIG. 10 illustrates, in example 1000, an electrochemical cell assembly comprising a set of stacked electrodes 1002 disposed between constraint portions, adjacent to which are charge carrier sources (e.g., charge carrier precursor cards) 1001a and 1001b. The constraint portions are positioned on opposite sides of the electrode stack along the X direction and are connected at their distal ends to maintain structural alignment and mechanical stability. End plates such as endplate 1004, and unit cells such as unit cell 1006, are disposed as part of the cell assembly 1002. A stacking axis parallel to axis 1008 is defined along the Y-axis stacking direction of the cell assembly 1002. The stacked electrodes 1002 are oriented along a Y-axis stacking direction, with active material edges directed toward the X axis. Charge carrier sources 1001a and 1001b are positioned adjacent to the edge of the electrode stack. Diffusion of charge carriers may occur from source 1001a and 1001b through perforations in constraint portions. The perforations may correspond to holes in constraint system, e.g., Fig. 5, 501a and 501b. The diffusion may proceed along the X direction to enter the stacked cells 1002. The configuration may reduce inhomogeneous charge distribution and support direct interfacial delivery. The stacked cells 1002 may be held by a constraint system such as that shown in Fig. 6, example 650. The stacked cells may span at least about 10 mm, 50 mm, 100 mm, or 200 mm along the Y direction. The stacked cells may span at most about 200 mm, 300 mm, 400 mm, or 500 mm along the Y direction. The stacked cells may span any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10 mm to about 500 mm along the Y direction. The stacked cells may span at least about 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, or 5 mm along the X direction. The stacked cells may span at most about 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm, or 10 mm along the X direction. The stacked cells may span any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 1 mm to about 10 mm along the X direction. The set of cells in the cell arrangement may comprise at least 2, 10, 20, 50, 100, 150, 200, 250, or 500 cells. The set of cells may comprise any number of cells between the aforementioned number of cells, e.g., from 2 to 500 cells, or from 50 to 500 cells. The face of the cell opposing the largest surface area face of the electrode (e.g., anode or cathode) may have an aspect ratio of at least about 2:1, 5:1, 10:1, 15:1, 20:1, 35:1, or 50:1, the aspect ratio being a length (e.g. ,6, 631) of the face to a height (e.g., Fig. 6, 632) of that face. The cell may have an aspect ratio of at most about 5:1, 8:1, 10:1, 15:1, 25:1 20:1, 35:1, or 50:1, the aspect ratio being a height (e g., 6, 632) of the cell to a width (e.g., Fig. 6, 604, showing a width of three cells). The end plates such as 1004 are at distal ends of cell assembly 1002. The endplates are each disposed at terminal ends of the stack of unit cells, and along the stacking axis of the unit cells. The unit cell 1006 comprises anAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOanode, a cathode, and a separator arranged to define an electrochemical structure. The unit cells are arranged in series along the stacking axis to form the cell assembly 1002. The stacking axis parallel to 1008 is a longitudinal distance defining the overall length of the cell assembly 1002 along the Y-axis stacking direction.

[0132] In some embodiments, the battery is a rechargeable battery. The battery may undergo cycles of charge and discharge, with one cycle including one change and one discharge operation. The capacity of the battery to store and / or release electrical charge may diminish over the number of cycles it undergoes, e.g., at least in part due to various chemical reactions occurring in the battery during cycling. The reactions may comprise depletion of essential components such as essential chemical(s) for the function of the battery, e.g., depletion of the charge carriers. At least one essential component may be depleted during the first electrolytic cycle of the battery - during buffering, the essential component(s) may comprise starting material for passivation layer of the active material, e.g., SEI layer on an anode active material.

[0133] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) contains critical component(s) required for operation of the cell. The component may comprise a chemical. The critical components may initially be in optimized relative amounts in the battery. Some of the component(s) may enhance some performance attribute(s) while diminishing other attribute(s), e.g., making other attributes worse. A goal for cell performance could be to use an optimized amount of (e.g., critical) components to maximize the benefits while minimizing the drawbacks for best performance of the cell and / or device such as battery. Such optimization may differ in the buffering stage to the optimization in the performance stage - including at least two charging cycles.

[0134] For example, during charging of a cell, charge carriers move from the cathode to the anode. When charge carriers (e.g., lithium cations) come into contact with a starting material (e.g., FEC) they undergo a reduction reaction and form a stable solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) layer on the anode’s surface. The SEI layer (e.g., significantly) improves the cycling stability of the batteries such as by preventing electrolyte decomposition, e.g., on the anode surface. Although formation of the SEI layer is requested for the stability of the battery, some of the starting materials (e.g., FEC) and the charge carriers become irreversibly bound, and thus removed from the cyclic operation of the battery, e.g., the rechargeable battery. Problems can arise due to the expanding and contracting of the electrode active material such as of the anode. In an example, the SEI layer is formed during charging, when the anode is expanded to a first size. As the battery discharges, the anode contracts to a second smaller size. In some examples, the SEI layer is not sufficiently elastic and as the anode contracts, the SEI layerAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcracks and / or breaks, thus exposing portions of the anode active material. Such problem may be exacerbated in batteries with electrodes comprising materials (e.g., Si, SiOx, Si-C, etc.) that have large volume differences between their charged and discharged states. The silicon content in the electrode may be at least about 20%, 40%, 50%, 80%, 90%, 95%, 97%, 98%, or 99% wt / wt. The silicon content in the electrode may be between any of the aforementioned percentages, e.g., from about 20% to about 99%, or from about 80% to about 99% wt / wt. In the next charging cycle, the SEI layer may become mended (e.g., clogged) to fix the cracks in the SEI layer caused in the previous cycle. Mending the SEI layer may require additional starting material amount (e.g., FEC), e.g., and charge carriers. In such scenario, the cycle of charging and discharging the battery may result in continual consumption of the starting materials, e.g., and of charge carriers. Buffering may be used to replenish the consumed charge carriers in such case. However, there are currently inadequate solutions to replenish the starting materials required, e.g., the FEC. When the FEC concentration decreases in the electrolyte (e.g., to allow for more cycles of mending the SEI layer), the higher FEC concentration may decrease the efficiency of the battery and / or cause safety concerns for the battery. Higher concentration of FEC may result in generating gas, e.g., the higher the temperature experienced by the battery. Concentrations of FEC above 40% could form solids that decrease the efficiency of the battery. Higher concentration of FEC may increase the impedance of the battery and / or increase the viscosity of the electrolyte. Increasing the viscosity of the electrolyte can reduce the travel rate of the charge carriers in the battery. The gas generated may comprise hydrogen (H2), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), short aliphatic (e.g., CxH2x+2 such as ethane), or any combination thereof. The active FEC concentration can be most about 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 30% v / v. The active FEC concentration can be between any of the aforementioned percentage values, e.g., from about 1% to about 20%, from about 0.25% to about 30%, from about 0.25% to about 5%, from about 5% to about 15%, or from about 15% to about 30%. In an example, the cell has at most about 15% active FEC available in the electrolyte mixture.

[0135] The passivation layer may result from an electrochemical reduction of electrolyte component(s) (e.g., FEC) at the electrode interface. The passivation layer may allow charge carriers (Li+) transport through the passivation layer while hindering (e.g., blocking) electron flow, e.g., to hinder (e.g., prevent) decomposition of other electrolyte components. The passivation layer may stabilize the active material (e.g., of the anode) at least in part by hindering (e.g., impeding or substantially preventing) direct contact between the electrons and the other electrolyte components, thus reducing degradation of the electrolyte and improvingAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcycle life. The passivation layer may comprises inorganic salts, e.g., LiF, IJ2CO3, organic compounds (e.g., lithium alkyl carbonates, Fluoroethylene Carbonate (FEC) and vinylene carbonate (VC) polymerization products). Generation of the passivation layer may consume the charge carriers, e.g., irreversibly. Lithium may be converted into Lithium carbonate and lithium fluoride in the reduction reaction to form the passivation layer, which reaction may be irreversible.

[0136] In some embodiments, charge carriers (e.g., Li ions) reside in a cathode when the battery is in a discharged state, and reside in the anode when the battery is in a charged state. For example, when a battery charges, charge carriers (e.g., carrier ions) migrate into one or more electrode active materials. As the charge carriers traverse (e.g., move) in and out of the active material of the electrodes, the active material undergoes a volume change. The movement in an out of the active material may be referred to as ingress and egress of the charge carriers relative to the active material. The amount of expansion may differ depending on the active materials used for the electrode. For example, a graphite electrode may expand by about 6% to 10% when the graphite electrode is charged. In another example, a silicon electrode may expand up to 300% when the silicon electrode is charged. In another example, a silicon oxide electrode may expand up to 210% when the silicon oxide electrode is charged. In another example, an electrode comprising silicon may expand up to about 20%, 50%, 75%, 100%, 200%, 300%, or 350% when the silicon electrode is charged, the percentage being volume per volume. In some embodiments, graphite electrodes require less starting material (e.g., fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC)) than silicon electrodes because the graphite electrodes expand less. The silicon anode material may have a capacity of at least about 1800 milliampere-hours per centimeter cubed (mAh / CC), 2000mAh / CC, or2500mAh / CC. The graphite anode material may have a capacity of at most about 800 Amh / CC, 830mAh / CC, or 850mAh / CC.

[0137] In some embodiments, an energy manipulation device such as a battery, comprises a plurality of cells. Each of the cells comprises an anode separated by a gap from a cathode. The gap may comprise a separator. The cell may comprise one or more electrolyte types. Each of the electrodes (e.g., anode and cathode) comprises a current collector, e.g., a strip, a foil, or a film, of conductive material on which the active electrode material is disposed of. The conductive material may comprise an elemental metal, a metal alloy, or an allotrope of elemental carbon. In an example, the elemental metal comprises aluminum or copper. In an example, the metal alloy may comprise stainless steel. In an example, the allotrope of elemental carbon may comprise carbon nanotubes, or carbon fibers. The tubular structures (e.g.,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOnanotubes) may comprise nestled tubes, e.g., at least about 2, 3, 4, or more nestled tubes. The carbon fibers may be weaved, randomly dispersed, or any combination thereof. The strip of conductive material may or may not comprise a composite material. At least two cells in the energy manipulation device (e.g., battery) may be stacked in a direction (e.g., substantially) normal to their face having the largest surface area. The electrode has an electrode face having the largest surface area, and the counter-electrode has a counter-electrode face having the largest surface area. In some embodiments, there is a difference in a volume of the cell between a state of charge and a state of discharge of an electrode of the cell. The volume of the cell may repeatedly and / or reversibly alter between the state of charge and the state of discharge repeatedly. The reversible discharge may not be completely reversible, e.g., there may be an attrition in the properties of one or more components of the cell during a cycle of charge / discharge. The repeated cycling between the state of charge / discharge may comprise at least about 200 cycles, 500 cycles, 800 cycles, 900 cycles, 1000 cycles, 1200 cycles, or 1500 cycles. In some embodiments, there is a difference in a volume of the cell between a state of charge and a state of discharge of an electrode of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in at most about 20%, 25%, 50%, 100%, 200%, 300%, or 400% of an initial volume of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in at least about 10%, 25%, 50%, 100%, 200%, or 300% of an initial volume of the cell. The change in volume may comprise a change in any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 10% to about 400%, from about 100% to about 400%, or from about 20% to about 200%. The charge carriers may interact with the active material (e.g., comprising silicon) such as in an intercalation and / or alloying process (e.g., Li-Si alloying). The Li-Si alloying may form alloys comprising LiisSi4 or Li22Sis. The lithium alloying of silicon may allow silicon to store at least 5*, 10*, or 15* more lithium as compared to graphite, with the operation “*” designating the mathematical operation of “times.”

[0138] In an example, a passivation layer is formed during operation of the device (e.g., during buffering) that consumes charge carriers and soluble passivating material in the cell. Portions of the passivation layer may be (e.g., additionally) formed during regular operation of the device, e.g., during charging and discharging cycles.

[0139] In some embodiments, electrons are formed in an operation of the cell, which electrons can further react with cell component(s). As the charge carriers move in the battery (e.g., in the cell), electrons are also moving. The electrons may travel from the current collector to the active material coupled with the current collector. When the active material contacts the current collector, such movement of electrons may be direct. When the active material does not contact the current collector, the movement may be indirect. The indirect movement may be throughAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOanother active material (e.g., particle), through a conductor, or through a semiconductor. In an example, an allotrope of elemental carbon facilitates the movement of electrons from the current collector to the active material and / or from an active material mass of an electrode to another active material mass of the electrode. The allotrope of elemental carbon may comprise carbon nanotube, carbon fiber, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The electrons may react with one or more chemicals in the target device such as in the cell, e.g., some of which reactions may be detrimental to the battery’s chemistry such that they diminish (e.g., harm) the target device’s requested performance. For example, the electrons may destabilize metal oxides during the charge / discharge cycles, e.g., due to slippage of transition metal layers, phase transitions and / or electrochemical strain. Mitigation (e.g., reduction) of the reactivity of the electrons in the battery cell may include causing confinement of the electrons to retard (e.g., reduce, deter and / or substantially prevent) reaction of the electrons with the material(s) in the target device, e.g., during the prescribe operation conditions of the battery and / or during the prescribed lifetime of the battery. Generation of a passivation layer that helps confine the electrons in the active material mass and / or impede their reaction with components of the target device (e.g., of the cell) external to the passivation layer, may mitigate the harmful reactivity of the electrons.

[0140] In some embodiments, the target device has prescribed use conditions and / or a prescribed lifetime. Operation of the target device (e.g., battery) may be during its prescribed lifetime, during its prescribed use, and / or according to jurisdictional standards relating to the target device related standards. The prescribed lifetime may depend at least in part on the number of charge and discharge cycles, e.g., as disclosed herein. The number of cycles may be to full charge before the capacity of the target device (e.g., battery) drops below 80%. The prescribed lifetime may be of at most about 3 years, 5 years, 6 years, 7 years, or 10 years, e.g., from the date of its manufacture. The target device may have a shelf life of at least about 6 months, 12months, 15months, or 24 months. The standards may include, MIL-STD-810G (516.6), UL (e.g., UL1642 and / or UL 2054), SAE (e.g., SAE J2380), GB (e.g., GB31241 and / or GB31242), MSDS, UL (UL1642 and / or UL2054), CE, CB, UN (e.g., UN38.3 and / or UN38.4), RoHS, REACH, IEC (e.g., IEC 60068-2-6, IEC 60068-2, and / or IEC62133), DOT, IATA, GB, CTIA, PSE, SICIT, IEEE (e.g., IEEE 1726), CCC certification , CN (e.g., CNS15265), BSMI, or any combination thereof. The prescribed operating conditions comprise temperatures between a lower temperature (e.g., -20°C) and a higher temperature (e.g., 80°C). The higher temperature may be of at most about 60°C, 70°C, 80°C, 85°C, or 90°C. The higher temperature may be of at least about 40°C, 50°C, 55°C, 60°C, 70°C, or 80°C. The lower temperature may be of at mostAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOabout -10°C, -20°C, -30°C, 40°C, or -50°C. The lower temperature may be of at least about -20°C, -10°C, or 0°C. The temperature may be between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 60°C to about -20°C, or from about 90°C to about -40°C. The target device may retain at least about 70%, 80%, or 85% of its capacity the lower temperature as compared to its capacity at ambient temperatures, e.g., at room temperature such as 20°C or 25°C.

[0141] In some embodiments, the energy manipulation device is rechargeable. The target device may be configured to allow fast charging (e.g., allowing the cell(s) to fully charge in five minutes). The target device may have a C-rate of at least about 0.2C, 0.5C, 1 C, 2C, 3C, 5C, 7C, 10C, 12C, or 15C, 30C, or 40C. The C-rate may be charging the target device to 80% capacity, or to 90% capacity. The target device may have a C-rate of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 0.2C to about 40C, from about 02C to about 5C, from about 3C to about 30C, from about 10C to about 40C or from about 2C to about 7C. The target device may be charged to at most about 30sec, 3 min. 6min. 10min, 12min, 15 min, 30min, the charging being to 80% or to 90% capacity. The target device may allow to choose the mode of discharge and / or of charge. The discharge and / or of charge, may be in a continuous mode, in a pulsed mode, or in a combination of a continuous mode and pulsed mode. In some embodiments, the battery has a N / P ratio greater than one. The N / P ratio may be at least about 1.05, 1.1, or 1.15. The cell configuration, cell set architecture, and / or chemical makeup (e.g., of the electrode active material(s)), may allow for buffering such as pre-lithiation. The cell, cell set, and / or battery disclosed herein, may facilitate maintenance of cyclable charge carriers (e.g., lithium) in the anode, e.g., also at beginning of charge (BOC). The cell, cell set, and / or battery disclosed herein may provide for better conductivity and / or for lower overpotential in anode deposited material (e.g., cake comprising the active material). The cell, cell set, and / or battery disclosed herein may provide for reduced (a) cycling window and / or (b) damage due at least in part to expansion and contraction during the charge and discharged states of the cell. The cell, cell set, and / or battery disclosed herein may provide for high voltage at BOC, e.g., without buffering, e.g., without pre-loading of the charge carrier into the active material of the electrode such as in a pre-lithiation process. The nominal voltage of the target device may be at least about 3.6 Volts (V), 3.7V, 3.8V. The working voltage of the target device may be at least about 3V, 3.7V, 3.8V, 4.0V, 4.2V, 4.35V, 4.5V, 4.75V, 4.9V, or 5.0V. The working voltage of the target device may be between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 3V to about 5V, from about 3V to about 4V, or from about 4V to about 5V. The weight of the target device may be at most about 1 gram(gr), 1.5gr, 1.8gr, 2gr, 3.5gr., 6gr, 46gr, 47gr, 50gr, 69gr, 70gr, 71 gr., or 100gr. The weight of the target device may be at any value between any of the aforementionedAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOvalues, e.g., from about 1.8gr to about 100 gr. The volumetric energy density of the device may be at least about 500 Watt hour per liter (Wh / liter), 600Wh / liter, 800Wh / liter, 805 Wh / liter, 820 Wh / liter, 900 Wh / liter, 1300 Wh / liter, or 1500 Wh / liter. The gravimetric density of the device may be of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 500 Wh / liter to about 1500 Wh / liter. The gravimetric energy density of the target device may be at least about 150 Watt hours per kilogram (Wh / Kg), 200 Wh / Kg, 250 Wh / Kg, 300 Wh / Kg, 320 Wh / Kg, 350 Wh / Kg, 395 Wh / Kg, 400 Wh / Kg, 500Wh / Kg, 1000 Wh / Kg, 2000 Wh / Kg or 3000 Wh / Kg. The gravimetric density of the device may be of any value between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 150 Wh / Kg to about 3000 Wh / Kg, from about 200 Wh / Kg to about 400 Wh / Kg, or from about 400 to about 3000 Wh / Kg. The energy density (e.g., whether volumetric or gravimetric) may be measured at about 50%, 40%, 30% or 20% state of charge. The electrical charge capacity of the cell may be of at least about 200 milliampere hours (mAmph), 240 mAmph, 280 mAmph, 600 mAmph, 900 mAmph, 1 Amper hour (Amph), 5Amph, 7Amph, 7.35Amph, 10Amph, 30 Amph, 50 Amph, or 70 Amph. The electrical charge capacity of the cell may be between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 200 mAmph to about 800 mAmph, from about 200 mAmph to about 1 Amph, from about 1 Amph to about 30 Amph, from about 1 Amph to about 10 Amph, or from about 30 Amph to about 80 Amph.

[0142] In some embodiments, the anode comprising silicon is thinner than an anode comprising graphite, e.g., has a smaller height - Fig. 2, 205. The anode height may be at most about 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, 65%, 75%, or 80%, height (i.e. , thickness) of a graphite anode for a for a given loading of anode active material. The anode height may be at least about 10%, 20%, 30%, 35%, 40%, 50%, 65%, or 70%, height (i.e., thickness) of a graphite anode for a for a given loading of anode active material. As compared to a graphite anode for a for a given loading of anode active material, the anode height may be between any of the aforementioned percentages, e.g., from about 10%, to about 70%, or from about 30% to about 70%. In an example, the height difference in graphite anode vs. silicon anode when discharged is 35%. In an example, the height difference in graphite anode vs. silicon anode is anode is 65% of the size of the graphite anode for a given loading, when each of the anodes is fully formed. A thinner anode may allow for better current distribution through the electrode and / or lower likelihood of charge carrier plating (e.g., reduction to its elemental state) such as lithium plating.

[0143] In some embodiments, the cell is pre-loaded with charge carriers, e.g., to form an initial passivation layer. During the initial charge process (e.g., buffering such as pre-lithiation), certain starting materials (e.g., FEC) are consumed to contribute to the formation of a passivation layer, e.g., an SEI layer. The passivation layer may be the result of the electrons and / or chargeAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcarriers reacting with the electrolyte in a reduction reaction. In some embodiments, the electrolyte(s) is / are chosen such that the reduction reaction results in the passivation layer having certain properties. For example, the passivation layer may comprise a solid or semisolid (e.g., gel). The passivation layer may be porous, e.g., to allow the charge carriers to migrate into and out of the electrode active material, e.g., silicon and / or graphite. The passivation layer may allow charge carriers (e.g., Li+) to pass through it while hindering (e.g., blocking) electron flow, to reduce (e.g., prevent) decomposition of electrolyte(s). The passivation layer may stabilize the active material, e.g., at least in part by hindering (e.g., preventing) direct contact of the electrode active material with any active components (e.g., of the electrolyte mixture), such that degradation of critical cell component(s) is reduced and / or the cycle life of the battery (e.g., the cell) is improved, in comparison to a situation in which no passivation layer is formed. The passivation layer may comprise a (e.g., inorganic) salt, an organic compound, a polymer, a resin, a composite, any plurality thereof, or any combination thereof. The salt may be the salt of the charge carrier. The organic compound may be made from a carbonate precursor. The organic compounds may comprise, or may be made of a precursor comprising, lithium alkyl carbonates, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC), vinylene carbonate (VC), polymerization products thereof, a plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the passivation layer comprises a different chemical form of the charge carriers such as lithium. The passivation layer may (e.g., readily) form (e.g., deposit) on one or more surfaces of the active material of the cell, e.g., of the electrode and / or of the counter-electrode. The passivation layer may be a decomposition product comprising the charge carriers and / or electrolyte mixture components. Although formation of the passivation layer may be requested for the stability of the battery and / or cell thereof, some of the starting materials (e.g., FEC) and / or the electrons, may be irreversibly bound to the passivation layer, and thus are removed from regular operation of the cell, e.g., during its charge and discharge cycles.

[0144] In some embodiments, the cell comprises an electrolyte mixture. The electrolyte mixture may comprise salt, solvent, additive, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The electrolyte mixture may be non-aqueous. The electrolyte mixture may comprise an organic mixture. The electrolyte may comprise polar molecule. The electrolyte may be sufficiently polar to dissolve the charge carriers such that they are readily available to participate in the charge and / or discharge cycles. The electrolyte may be such that side reaction with any other device components are minimized, e.g., during the prescribed lifetime of the target device and / or in the prescribed use conditions of the target device. The salt may comprise a halogen salt, a borate salt, an imide salt, a sulfonyl salt, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. In theAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcase of Lithium charge carrier, the salt may comprise Lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPFe), Lithium tetrafluoro borate (LiBF4), Lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI), any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. The solvent may comprise a carbonate, a propionate, an ethyl acetate, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. The solvent may compromise Ethylene carbonate (EC), Propylene carbonate (PC), Ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), Diethyl carbonate (DEC), Propyl Propionate (PP), Ethyl Propionate (EP), Difluoro ethyl acetate (DFEA), or Methyl (2,2,2-trifluoroethyl) carbonate (FEMC), any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. The additive may comprise a carbonate, a nitrile (e.g., mono, bi, and / or thri- nitrile), a cyanide, an ethoxy, an ethylene, a sultone, any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof. The additive may comprise fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC), Vinylene carbonate (VC), Vinyl ethylene carbonate (VEC), Succinonitrile (SN), adiponitrile (AN), 1,3,6-hexanetricarbonitrile (HTCN), 1,2-Bis(2-cyanoethoxy) ethane (DENE), propane sultone (PS), 1,3-propene sultone (PRS), any derivatives thereof, or any combination thereof.

[0145] In some embodiments, the active material comprises a passivation layer. The passivation layer may range in thickness of at least about 30 nanometers (nm), 50nm, 100nm, 150 nm or 200nm. The passivation layer may range in thickness of at most about 50 nm, 100nm, 150nm, 200nm, or 250nm. The passivation layer may range in thickness between any of the aforementioned values, e.g., from about 50 nanometers (nm) to about 150 nm, or from about 30nm to about 250nm. The passivation layer may be configured to allow charge carriers to pass through, and hinder (e.g., prevent) electrons in passing through.

[0146] In some embodiments, the passivation layer comprises an SEI layer. The SEI layer may comprise the charge carrier such as lithium, e.g., in the form of salt(s) such as lithium fluoride (LiF) and / or U2CO3. In some embodiments, the SEI layer comprises inorganic salts, and / or organic compounds. The organic compounds may comprise lithium alkyl carbonates, fluoroethylene carbonate (FEC), vinylene carbonate (VC), polymerization products thereof, a plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the SEI layer comprises lithium. The SEI layer may (e.g., readily) form (e.g., deposit) on one or more surfaces of the electrode active material. The SEI layer may be a decomposition product comprising lithium (or other carrier ions) and / or electrolyte mixture components. Although formation of the SEI layer is requested for the stability of the battery, some of the starting materials of the passivation layer (e.g., FEC) and / or the electrons, may be irreversibly bound to the SEI, and thus are removed from the regular operation of the cell, e.g., during its charge and discharge cycles.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0147] In some embodiments, a passivation layer is formed, the passivation layer contacting an external surface of the active material, e.g., cathode and / or anode active material. The concentration of the starting material in the electrolyte (e.g., FEC) in the electrolyte may be between about 15% to about 30% volume of active FEC per volume of electrolyte. The concentration of the starting material may be at most about 0.25%, 0.5%, 1%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 30% volume of starting material per volume of electrolyte. For example, the concentration of starting material may be at most about 15% volume of starting material per volume of electrolyte. The concentration of starting material may be of any percentage value between any of the aforementioned percentage values, e.g., from about 0.25% to about 30%, from about 0.25% to about 5%, or from about 5% to about 15%, volume of starting material per volume of electrolyte.

[0148] In some embodiments, the cell comprises an anode separated by a gap from an anode. The cell may comprise a separator disposed in the gap. The cells may be elongated, e.g., may assume a shape of an elongated box. The face of the cell opposing the largest surface area face of the electrode (e.g., anode or cathode) may have an aspect ratio of at least about 10:1, 15:1, 20:1, 35:1, or 50:1, the aspect ratio being a length (e.g., Fig. 6, 631) of the face to a height (e.g., Fig. 6, 632) of that face. The cell may have an aspect ratio of at least about 5:1, 8:1, 10:1, 15:1, 25:1 20:1, 35:1, or 50:1, the aspect ratio being a height (e.g., Fig. 6, 632) of the cell to a width.

[0149] In some embodiments, the architecture of the target device comprising the stacked electrodes described herein (e.g., Figs. 3, 5-8,10) allow for better (e.g., faster and / or homogenous) distribution of starting materials (e.g., FEC) into the cell, as compared to other cell arrangements. The other cell arrangements may include a folded (e.g., jelly roll) cell configuration, or cell having a smaller aspect ratio, e.g., and having vertically stacked electrodes. In an example, when the electrodes have a large aspect ratio - are elongated, (e.g., and are stacked such along a horizontal axis such as in Fig. 3, 350), starting materials introduced at the long edges of the electrodes (e.g., top and / or bottom of the target device), may quickly reach the middle of the electrode height (e.g., 351), e.g., since the distance to the interior of the cell structure is shorter, e.g., relative to a situation in which the starting material(s) is / are introduced (A) at the side edges of an elongated cylinder (e.g., 300), or (B) at edges of electrodes having a smaller aspect ratio (e.g., and that are stacked along a vertical axis Fig. 3, 330).

[0150] In some embodiments, methodologies disclosed herein comprise a wet conditioning system for electrodes. The conditioning may comprise buffering, cleaning, and / or otherwiseAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOpreparing, the electrodes to their next stage. The next stage may comprise a different operational stage. The next stage may comprise a different electrochemical stage. The next stage may comprise assembly of the electrodes in a battery. The next stage may comprise a change in an electrolytic mixture. The next stage may comprise cycling electrolytic cell(s) in which the electrode(s) are / is part of, between charged and discharged states. The wet conditioning system may be structured to pre-condition electrodes prior to their assembly in a target device, e.g., by maintaining a regulated internal environment, buffering medium, and / or other conditioning medium such as a cleaning medium, or another buffer medium. The wet processing system may comprise an enclosure designed to separate (e.g., isolate) an internal environment from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure. The enclosure may be configured to maintain chemical stability at least in part by (a) hindering (e.g., measurably and / or substantially preventing) external contamination and / or (b) regulating conditions internal to the enclosure. A bath may be positioned within the enclosure, or as part of the enclosure. The bath may be designed to receive a liquid medium such that the electrodes become at least partially suspended in the liquid medium, e.g., during a conditioning process. The buffering process may be referred to as an activation process. The buffering process may comprise pre-loading of the electrodes with charge carriers such as pre-lithiation. The buffering process may comprise formation of a passivation layer, e.g., an SEI layer. The bath may minimize electrolyte evaporation and / or sustain a chemical composition that is consistent and / or prescribed. The bath, environmental conditions, and / or solution (e.g., comprising electrolyte mixture), may be optimal for the buffering process, e.g., and may, or may not, be different from a requested use of the electrodes such as in energy storage and / or release. The bath may comprise: (i) a liquid reservoir, (ii) charge carrier source, (iii) a fluid (e.g., liquid) circulation mechanism for the liquid in the bath, and / or (iv) integrated processing controls. The liquid reservoir may contain one or more electrolytes, one or more solvents, one or more additives, or any combination thereof. The liquid in the path may comprise an electrolyte mixture and / or another solvent. The other solvent may comprise a rinsing solvent. The other solvent may comprise an altered electrolyte mixture, e.g., the other electrolyte mixture utilized for regular use of the target device such as cycling between charged and discharged state of the electrolytic cell. The other solvent may comprise a transition electrolyte mixture, e.g., to transition the electrodes to the regular use of the target device. The electrolyte circulation mechanism may comprise an electrolyte purging system. The electrolyte circulation mechanism may comprise a liquid system, e.g., comprising a circulation system. The liquid system is also referred to herein as the “liquid conveyance system.” The liquid system may control one or more characteristics of the liquid of the bath. The bath may beAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOstructured to accommodate electrodes - a plurality of electrodes, e.g., at least tenths, hundreds, or thousands of electrodes. The bath may accommodate electrodes of a battery and / or of several batteries. The bath may be configured to accommodate electrodes of one or more types. The electrode types may be different by at least one electrode characteristics. The at least one electrode characteristics may comprise (a) at least one fundamental length scale (e.g., length, width, and / or height) of the electrodes, (b) a thickness of active material (coupled with a current collector), (c) a thickness of the current collector (coupled with an active material), (d) a type of a current collector, (e) a type of an active material, or any combination thereof. In an example, the electrodes in a bath have (e.g., substantially) the same (i) current collector and / or (ii) active material. The bath may comprise fluidic (e.g., liquid) management components configured to regulate liquid (e.g., electrolyte) flow and / or gas exchange. The bath may be configured to allow generation of gas during the buffering process, and removal of the gas from the bath. The bath configuration may be structured for scalability in high-throughput electrode manufacturing. Operation of the wet conditioning system may comprise manual and / or automatic control, e.g., using a control system such as disclosed herein. The gas system and / or the liquid system, include one or more of: a pump, a filter, a sensor, a piston, and a valve.

[0151] In some embodiments, the wet conditioning system is operatively coupled to a gas system. The gas system includes a gas purging system and / or a gas recycling system. The gas system may regulate at least one characteristic of the gas within the internal environment. The at least one characteristic of the gas may comprise the gas composition, pressure, flow rate, flow direction, gas temperature, gas turbulence, gas flow-linearity, or any combination thereof. The gas system may comprise a pump, e.g., for delivering gas(es) into the enclosure. The gas may comprise an inert gas. The gas may be depleted by one or more reactive agents present in the ambient environment external to the gas system, e.g., including humidity, oxygen, other oxidative species, or any combination thereof. The gas system may comprise filter(s), e.g., to remove unwanted reactive agents (e.g., gases), debris, and / or byproducts. The debris may comprise particulate materials that are gas borne. The debris may comprise dust, active material dislodged from the electrode, or any other debris that is, or can become, gas borne. A gas reservoir may be operatively coupled with the gas system, and / or with the bath. The gas reservoir may allow control (e.g., maintenance) of pressure in an enclosure in which the bath is disposed and / or replenish gas content as required.

[0152] In some embodiments, the wet conditioning system is operatively coupled to a liquid system. The liquid system includes a liquid purging system and / or a liquid recycling system. The liquid system may regulate at least one characteristic of the liquid within the bath. The at leastAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOone characteristic of the liquid may comprise the liquid composition, pressure, flow rate, flow direction, liquid temperature, liquid turbulence, liquid circulation, or any combination thereof. The liquid system may comprise a pump, e.g., for delivering liquid(es) into the enclosure. The liquid may comprise an inert liquid. The liquid may be depleted by one or more reactive agents present in the ambient environment external to the liquid system, e.g., including humidity, oxygen, other oxidative species, or any combination thereof. The liquid system may comprise filter(s), e.g., to remove unwanted byproducts (e.g., liquids and / or solids), reactants exceeding their requested concentration in the bath at a given time and / or debris. In this way, the electrodes may be conditioned with a changing electrolyte mixture overtime, e.g., an electrolytic gradient. The debris may comprise dust, active material dislodged from the electrode, solid byproducts, or any other debris that is, or can become, liquid borne. At least one liquid reservoir may be operatively coupled with the liquid system, and / or with the bath. The liquid reservoir(s) may be controlled to replenish and / or remove liquid content of the bath, e.g., as required. The liquid system may regulate at least one characteristic of the liquid within the bath. The at least one characteristic of the liquid may comprise the liquid composition (e.g., electrolyte mixture composition, or solvent composition), flow rate into the bath, flow rate out of the bath, flow rate within the bath, ingress flow direction to the bath, egress flow direction from the bath, flow circulation direction within the bath, liquid temperature in the bath, or any combination thereof.

[0153] In some embodiments, the bath is enclosed in an enclosure. The bath may form a portion of the enclosure. The enclosure may be integrated with the bath. In an example, the enclosure is formed with the bath being a first portion of the enclosure, and a lid of the path being a second portion of the enclosure. The lid can reversibly engage and reversibly disengage with the enclosure, e.g., to open and close the enclosure. Engaging the lid with the bath may form a sealed enclosure, e.g., using a seal. The seal can be gas tight, liquid tight, debris tight, or any combination thereof. The enclosure may be separate from the bath, with the bath disposed in the enclosure. The enclosure may include a door or a window, through which the bath may be reversibly taken in and out of the enclosure. In an example, the bath has wheels, and is rolled in and out of the enclosure. In an example, a floor of the enclosure has railings, and the bath is engaged with the railings. In an example, the bath is reversibly placed in the enclosure and reversibly taken out of the enclosure. Fig. 11 shows an example of a bath integrated in the enclosure.

[0154] Fig. 11 shows a wet conditioning system for electrodes, which can be used for electrode buffering. The wet processing system comprises bath 1112 covered by lid 1102 to form an enclosure. The wet processing system comprises cover 1102 enclosing an internal environment 1104 isolated from an external environment 1106, e.g., using a seal such as disclosed herein.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOThe lid can be reversibly opened and reversibly closed. Electrodes such as 1118(A) and 1118(B) are suspended in a liquid 1120 held by the bath, e.g., an electrolyte mixture. Gas purging system 1108 and a gas recycling system 1110 are operatively coupled to the lid of the enclosure, as part of a gas system. The gas system is coupled (e.g., wired and / or wirelessly) with a control system that is not shown in Fig. 11. A gas reservoir 1130 is coupled with the gas system. The gas reservoir 1130 maintains the internal environment 1104 of the enclosure at predefined parameters and / or replenishes gas content as required, e.g., at least in part by using the control system. The bath comprises conditioning liquid 1120, e.g., an electrolyte mixture. Bath 1112 is coupled with (i) liquid (e.g., electrolyte) reservoir 1116, (ii) charge carrier source 1122, and (iii) a liquid circulation mechanism 1132. Flow of charge carriers may be generated using electronically engaging voltage differential 1140 with the electrodes and charge carrier source 1122. The control system may be operatively coupled with the electrical source, e.g., to control flow of the charge carriers into the electrolyte in the bath and be attracted by the electrodes. The bath and / or liquid system can be operatively coupled with integrated processing controls (not shown). Liquid reservoir 1116 houses liquid 1120, e.g. for conditioning the electrodes such as for buffering the electrodes. The liquid circulation mechanism 1132 comprises a liquid purging system 1128. The liquid circulation mechanism 1132 comprises a liquid recycling mechanism 1126. The bath comprises an agitation system 1150, e.g., comprising an agitator (e.g., a stirrer) such as including a mechanical agitator and / or magnetic agitator. The agitation system may be operatively coupled to the control system. Bath 1112 is structured to accommodate electrodes, such as 1118(A) and / or 1118(B). The electrodes are supported by an electrode holder 1124, e.g., a busbar. The electrodes in the bath may be electrically coupled in parallel. The electrodes in the bath may be electrically coupled in series. The electrodes comprise an electrode active material 1114. The active material couples with a current collector of the electrode on opposing sides of the current collector. In other embodiments, the active material couples with one side of the current collector, and not with its opposing side. Bath 1112 comprises fluidic management components configured to regulate electrolyte flow and / or gas exchange. Bath 1112 is coupled with a charge carrier source 1122, e.g., a lithium source. The bath configuration is structured for scalability in high-throughput electrode manufacturing. The conditioning system can be structured to regulate the temperature, humidity, pressure, liquid composition, and / or gas composition in the internal environment to support a controlled buffering process for pre-loading the electrodes. The example shown in Fig.11 may allow fabrication of electrodes utilized for the electrochemical cell architecture described in any of Figs. 1-10. The example 1100 incorporates operational characteristics and charge carrier dynamics configured for pre-loading electrodes, e.g., in a buffering process. The example shownAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOin Fig. 11, is structured to prepare electrodes (e.g., buffering the electrodes) prior to assembly within a target device such as a battery, e.g., a secondary battery. The example shown in Fig. 11 , is configured for compatibility with charging mechanisms, electrolyte interactions, and / or structural configurations. The example shown in Fig. 11, is configured for compatibility with: (i) charging mechanisms (e.g., constant current charging), (ii) electrolyte interactions (e.g., controlled ion exchange), and / or (iii) structural configurations (e.g., prismatic cells).

[0155] In some embodiments, the bath comprises the electrolyte medium (also herein, the “electrolytic medium”). The electrolyte medium may be configured to immerse with an electrode active material - coupled with a current collector of the electrode. The electrode active material may be an anode active material or a cathode active material. The electrolyte medium may be a mobile electrolyte, e.g., a liquid-phase lithium salt solution. The bath may be configured to (i) maintain electrochemical stability, (ii) regulate charge carrier diffusion, and / or (iii) sustain uniform electrolyte composition during conditioning such as buffering. The bath may be constructed from, or may be coated by, a chemically inert materials configured to resist electrolyte-induced degradation. In an example, the bath is coated by, and / or may be made of, an insulator such as comprising a polymer and / or a resin. The bath may be inert to the chemical processes occurring during the conditioning. The bath may comprise (i) an internal compartment, (ii) a fluid circulation pathway, (iii) valves, (iv) sensors, (v) electrode positioning mechanisms (e.g., to promote (e.g., ensure) optimized charge carrier uptake), (vi) charge carrier source positioning mechanism, (vii) liquid circulation system, and / or (viii) temperature conditioning system.

[0156] In some embodiments, the conditioning system may comprise, or may be operatively coupled to, a temperature conditioning system. The temperature conditioning system may comprise a heating and air conditioning system (HVAC). The temperature conditioning system may include a cooler and / or a heater. The temperature conditioning system may comprise one or more channels. The channel(s) may comprise a temperature conditioning agent, e.g., a liquid or a gel. The channels may be configured for flow of the temperature conditioning agent therein. The channels may be part of, or may be operatively coupled with, the walls of the enclosure, the bath, or any combination thereof. The channels (e.g., conduits) may be hollow. The temperature conditioning system may comprise a solid configured for efficient heat conduction, e.g., comprising an elemental metal or metal alloy. The metal may comprise copper, silver, gold, aluminum, tungsten, bronze, or brass. The channels may be filled with the solid. The temperature conditioning system may be configured to passively and / or actively, conduct heat. The temperature conditioning system may comprise at least one heat sink.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0157] In some embodiments, the bath comprises (i) at least one liquid reservoir, (ii) a liquid circulation mechanism, (iii) at least one additive reservoir, and / or (iv) integrated processing controls. The additives may be in a solid, liquid, and / or gas form. In an example, the additive is a salt. In an example, the liquid is a solvent. In an example, the liquid is an electrolyte. In an example, the electrolyte reservoir is structured to contain a predefined electrolyte volume formulated for charge carrier pre-loading. The charge carrier source may be configured for controlled diffusion into the electrode active material. The liquid circulation mechanism may comprise a liquid purging system. The liquid circulation mechanism may comprise a liquid recycling mechanism. The liquid system may comprise the liquid circulation system. In an example, the liquid purging system and the liquid recycling mechanism are configured to sustain uniform charge carrier distribution and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) localized charge carrier depletion zones in the bath. In an example, the liquid purging system comprises a pump. In an example, the liquid recycling mechanism comprises a filter. The integrated processing controls may control (e.g., regulate) temperature, electrolyte flow, and / or charge carrier replenishment. The control system may control the one or more characteristics of the liquid in the liquid system and / or in the bath. The control system may control the one or more characteristics of the gas in of the environment of the enclosure and / or in the gas system.

[0158] In some embodiments, the conditioning system is structured for liquid conditioning. The conditioning system (e.g., the bath) may be configured for selective liquid replacement and / or substitution through a liquid replacement mechanism using a liquid reservoir. The liquid replacement mechanism may enable direct exchange of spent liquid with an operational liquid suitable for device integration. The liquid may be utilized for buffering, for exchange into another liquid system such as a liquid system formulated for long-term stability in rechargeable batteries and / or other electrochemical cells such as high-performance electrochemical cells. The liquid substitution process may be structured to hinder (e.g., prevent) interference with final electrochemical system stability, e.g., by ensuring that ionic conductivity, pH balance, and / or chemical composition remain within predefined operational thresholds. The conditioning system may comprise mechanisms configured for controlled liquid drainage and replenishment, e.g., automated valve-controlled drainage systems, flow-regulated liquid infusion channels, and / or real-time monitoring sensors to maintain liquid composition during replacement.

[0159] In some embodiments, the conditioning system is structured for electrolyte conditioning. The conditioning system (e.g., the bath) may be configured for selective electrolyte replacement and / or substitution through an electrolyte replacement mechanism using an electrolyte reservoir. The electrolyte replacement mechanism may enable direct exchange of spent electrolyte with anAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOoperational electrolyte suitable for device integration (e.g., an electrolyte formulated for long-term stability in rechargeable batteries and / or high-performance electrochemical cells). The electrolyte substitution process may be structured to hinder (e.g., prevent) interference with final electrochemical system stability (e.g., by ensuring that ionic conductivity, pH balance, and / or chemical composition remain within predefined operational thresholds). The bath may comprise mechanisms configured for controlled electrolyte drainage and replenishment (e.g., automated valve-controlled drainage systems, flow-regulated electrolyte infusion channels, and / or real-time monitoring sensors to maintain electrolyte composition during replacement).

[0160] In some embodiments, the conditioning system (e.g., the bath) is structured to accommodate electrodes. The electrodes may correspond to anodes, e.g., silicon-based anodes and / or graphite-based anodes. The electrodes may be positioned within the bath using: (i) electrode holders, (ii) guiding slots, and / or (iii) controlled insertion and extraction mechanisms. The electron holder may serve as a busbar for electrical current relative to the electrodes. The electrode holders may be configured to maintain spatial alignment and / or promote (e.g., ensure) consistent electrolyte exposure, e.g., by securing electrodes at a fixed distance to hinder (e.g., prevent) variation in charge carrier diffusion. The guiding slots may be configured to hinder (e.g., prevent) electrode displacement, e.g., by mechanically stabilizing electrodes to avoid misalignment during electrolyte circulation. The controlled insertion mechanisms may be structured to regulate immersion duration and / or optimize charge carrier uptake. The controlled extraction mechanisms may be structured to regulate immersion duration and / or optimize charge carrier uptake. In an example, the regulation is achieved through programmable robotic arms and / or automated immersion cycles based at least in part on electrolyte interaction times. The electrolyte interaction time may be pre-set. The electrolyte interaction time may be controlled, e.g., using a control scheme such as disclosed herein, e.g., feed forward and / or feedback control.

[0161] In some embodiments, the bath comprises fluidic management components. The fluidic management components may regulate liquid flow and / or gas exchange. The fluidic management components may comprise: (i) liquid circulation channels, (ii) gas flow pathways, and / or (iii) filtration and recycling systems. The liquid circulation channels may be configured to sustain uniform charge carrier concentration, e.g., by maintaining consistent electrolyte velocity, current flow, and / or ion distribution across all electrode surfaces to hinder (e.g., prevent) localized charge depletion). The gas flow pathways may be structured to regulate atmospheric composition and hinder (e.g., prevent) reactive species from interfering with the requested charge carrier uptake, e.g., by purging oxygen or moisture. The enclosure may be configured to hold overpressure relative to the ambient environment external to the enclosure. The overpressure may allowAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOhindering of the reactive species from entering into the internal environment of the enclosure, e.g. , during electrode conditioning. In an example, the reactive species cause unwanted side reactions, e.g., electrolyte and / or electrode active material degradation. The liquid filtration and / or recycling systems may be configured to purify and / or replenish liquid composition, e.g., by removing accumulated byproducts. In an example, the accumulated byproducts comprise metallurgical plating, metallurgical dendrite formation, electrolyte decomposition residues, and / or insoluble contaminants that affect electrochemical stability.

[0162] In some embodiments, the bath comprises a charge carrier source (e.g., solid metal) configured to function as an electrode. The charge carrier source may be configured to generate any charge carrier disclosed herein. The charge carrier may include the charge carrier in its nonionic state, e.g., a lithium source. The (e.g., solid) charge carrier source may form a cathode, e.g., comprising an elemental metal or a metal alloy. The charge carrier source may function as the counter electrode to the electrodes in the bath, e.g., and electrically coupled with them through circuitry. The circuitry can be controlled, e.g., manually and / or by a control system such as disclosed herein. The charge carrier source may be configured to maintain a controlled charge carrier supply for buffering operations, e.g., by providing a stable charge carrier-ion source to replenish charge carriers lost due to electrode reactions. The charge carrier source may be configured for continuous and / or intermittent, charge carrier diffusion into the electrolyte, e.g., through direct electrochemical dissolution and / or ion transport mechanisms that promote (e.g., ensure) uniform charge availability. The bath may be structured to accommodate multiple counterelectrodes, e.g., an array of charge carrier-ion intercalation electrodes, e.g., for simultaneous processing. The supply of charge carriers from the source may be dynamically adjustable. The adjustment may be based at least in part on charge carrier depletion rates and / or electrochemical equilibrium conditions. The equilibrium conditions may comprise monitoring: electrolyte composition, charge carrier concentration in the electrolyte, electrode active material composition, electrode active material volume, electrode volume, SEI layer monitoring, or any combination thereof. The equilibrium conditions may comprise charge carrier source replenishment. The composition of the electrolyte medium may be dynamically adjustable based at least in part on charge carrier depletion rates and / or electrochemical equilibrium conditions, e.g., through automated electrolyte composition monitoring. The monitoring may comprise using one or more sensors, e.g., optical sensors.

[0163] In some embodiments, the conditioning system may comprise, or may be operatively coupled with, one or more sensors. The sensors may be at least 5, 10, 50, or 100 sensors. The sensor(s) may comprise temperature sensor, pressure sensor, proximity sensor, chemical sensor,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOgas sensor, liquid sensor, electrical sensor, ionic sensor, flow sensor, sound sensor, optical sensor, any plurality thereof, any plurality of types thereof, or any combination thereof. The sensor(s) may measure optical density, infrared absorption, ultraviolet spectrum, infrared spectrum, nuclear magnetic resonance, X-ray diffraction, mass spectroscopy, atomic absorption, or any combination thereof.

[0164] In some embodiments, the bath is structured for compatibility with automation systems. The automation systems may regulate: (i) electrolyte replenishment (e.g., automated pumps); (ii) electrode insertion and / or extraction; (iii) charge carrier source extraction and / or insertion; and / or (iv) process monitoring (e.g., real-time sensors). Any of the insertion and / or extraction relative to the bath, may be reversible. Any of the insertion and / or extraction relative to the bath, may be carried out manually and / or automatically, e.g., using a robotic arm. The automatic extraction and / or insertion may be controlled by a control system such as disclosed herein. The electrolyte replenishment mechanisms may sustain charge carrier availability. The charge carrier availability can be continuous and / or intermittent during the conditioning operation. The concentration of the charge carriers in the bath during the conditioning operation may be (e.g., substantially) constant, or varied. The variation may be linear, non-linear, intermittent, or according to another scheme. The variation scheme may be dynamically altered, e.g., during the conditioning operation. The variation scheme may be based at least in part on feedback and / or feed forward control scheme. The variation scheme may be based on a table and / or historical measurements. The feedback may be based at least in part on (e.g., real time) sensor data, e.g., using any of the sensors disclosed herein - as applicable. The electrode insertion and / or extraction systems may be structured to enable (e.g., precise) positioning and / or withdrawal under controlled conditions. The process monitoring components may track: (i) charge carrier uptake (e.g., electrochemical sensors); (ii) electrolyte stability (e.g., conductivity meters); and / or (iii) electrode structural integrity (e.g., non-contact imaging).

[0165] In some embodiments, the bath is structured to support multiple operational modes. The operational modes may comprise: (i) batch processing such as fixed-cycle electrode immersion; (ii) continuous flow buffering such as dynamic electrolyte circulation; and / or (iii) segmented electrolyte treatment such as zone-specific charge carrier regulation. The batch processing mode may be configured for controlled pre-loading of a predefined set of electrodes. The continuous flow buffering mode may be structured to sustain electrolyte replenishment and / or facilitate processed electrode extraction. The segmented electrolyte treatment mode may be structured to regulate charge carrier distribution based on electrode properties.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0166] In some embodiments, the electrodes are positioned in the bath to allow for homogenous availability of the charge carriers to the active material of the electrodes in the bath. The positioning may rely at least in part on fluid dynamic and / or turbulence calculations. The positioning may relay at least in part on the parameters of the steering system, the ingress of liquid, the egress of liquid, relative to the bath, the number of electrodes in the batch, the position of the charge carrier source, and the voltage applied between the electrodes (e.g., electrode batch) and the charge carrier source.

[0167] In some embodiments, the bath is structured for integration with external control systems. The conditioning system may comprise monitoring and / or control systems configured to manage (e.g., electrochemical) parameters during the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process. The control system may track: (i) electrolyte composition; (ii) charge carrier diffusion rates; (iii) electrode surface interactions; (iv) gas exchange dynamics; (v) active material swelling; (vi) SEI layer formation; (v) liquid type exchange; or (vi) any combination thereof. The liquid composition may be monitored using ion chromatography, e.g., real-time tracking of lithium-ion concentration. The charge carrier diffusion rates may be assessed using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, e.g., to measure ionic mobility across electrode interfaces. The electrode surface interactions may be evaluated using surface potential mapping, e.g., to detect charge distribution irregularities. The gas exchange dynamics may be monitored using gas sensors, e.g., oxygen and / or moisture detectors positioned within the enclosure. The control system may regulate: (i) electrolyte delivery, (ii) gas purging operations, (iii) circulation speed, and / or (iv) thermal management. The electrolyte delivery may be adjusted to sustain predefined ionic concentration, e.g., using metered dosing pumps. The gas purging operations may be regulated to maintain an inert internal environment, e.g., gas flow controlled via precision valves. The gas may comprise clean dry air, nitrogen, Argon, or any combination thereof. The liquid circulation speed and / or acceleration in the bath, may be configured to promote (e.g., ensure) uniform distribution of charge carriers, e.g., via flow-controlled pumps and / or the agitation system. The thermal management may control temperature conditions to sustain electrochemical stability such as using the temperature conditioning system, e.g., integrated heating and / or cooling modules with feedback sensors. The electrolyte composition monitoring may be structured to sustain ionic concentration within predefined operational thresholds. The threshold may comprise a value or a function. The charge carrier diffusion rate tracking may be configured to optimize buffering time and hinder (e.g., prevent) unintended charge gradients. The electrode surface interaction monitoring may be structured to sustain uniform charge carrier uptake. The gas exchange dynamics tracking may be configured to maintain atmospheric stability within the conditioning system.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0168] In some embodiments, the bath configuration is structured for scalability in high-throughput electrode manufacturing. The bath may be structured for modular integration with adjacent processing units and / or for transition from buffering to assembly. The bath parameters may be dynamically adjustable to accommodate: (i) electrode chemistries such as for lithium-ion electrodes; (ii) charge carrier types such as lithium ions; and / or (iii) liquid formulations such as solvent formulations e.g., including electrolytes. The bath may be configured to sustain uniform charge carrier loading across diverse electrode dimensions, compositions, target architectures, or any combination thereof, e.g., as disclosed herein. The bath may be configured to sustain uniform charge carrier loading to optimize electrochemical integrity and / or process efficiency. The bath may be configured to sustain uniform liquid formulation exchange across diverse electrode dimensions, compositions, target architectures, or any combination thereof, e.g., as disclosed herein. The bath may be configured to sustain uniform liquid formulation exchange to optimize electrochemical integrity and / or process efficiency. The bath may be configured to sustain uniform liquid formulation exchange to optimize integration of the conditioned electrodes in their next processing operation. The next processing operation may include integrating the electrodes into a battery, for shipping, storing, testing, using for their intended purpose, or any combination thereof. The intended purpose may comprise charging and / or discharging the battery, e.g., as a secondary battery.

[0169] In some embodiments, an electrode conditioning system (also here a “conditioning system”) is structured to facilitate controlled charge carrier pre-loading of electrodes within an enclosed environment. The conditioning system may comprise an enclosure defining an internal environment isolated from the external environment to hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination and maintain electrochemical stability. The bath may be housed within the enclosure, or maybe a portion of the enclosure. The bath may be configured to immerse multiple electrodes in a liquid such as an electrolyte medium sourced from at least one electrolyte reservoir. The liquid conveyance system may be configured to mix mixture components to form a mixture, e.g., before the mixture is introduced into the bath. The mixture may comprise an electrolytic mixture. At least one of the components may be non-liquid, e.g., comprising a gas ora solid. The liquid conveyance system may be part of a fluid conveyance system, e.g., comprising a gas conveyance system. The charge carrier source may function as a charge carrier reservoir and / or counter-electrode. The charge carrier source may promote (e.g., ensure) the requested (e.g., consistent) charge carrier diffusion rate and / or concentration. The electrodes are positioned using electrode holder(s), preventing displacement during conditioning. The conditioning system may be operatively coupled with integrated fluidic managementAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcomponents. The fluidic management components may comprise (i) liquid circulation pathways, (ii) gas flow regulation mechanisms, (iii) filtration system, and / or (iv) recycling subsystems. The fluid system may be structured to sustain liquid (e.g., electrolyte and / or other solvent) composition, charge carrier availability, or any combination thereof. The gas system may maintain an inert atmosphere within the enclosure. The inert atmosphere may reduce (e.g., prevent) concentration of the reactive species of the enclosure. The inert atmosphere may reduce (e.g., prevent) unwanted side reaction with the reactive species (also herein “reactive agents”), e.g., may reduce oxidation and / or moisture in the enclosure. The system may operate in a controlled processing sequence of operations. The system may operate to allow optimized charge carrier uptake while maintaining electrolyte stability for high-throughput electrode buffering. The system may operate to allow optimized liquid exchange while maintaining electrolyte stability for high-throughput electrode buffering. The liquid exchange may be from one electrolyte mixture, optimized for buffering, to another electrolyte mixture such as optimized for intended use of the electrode in a battery.

[0170] In some embodiments, an enclosure is configured to regulate the conditioning process. The conditioning process may include buffering, electrolytic mixture exchange, electrode cleaning, or any combination thereof. The regulation may be implemented through an opencycle liquid circulation system. The enclosure may be configured to maintain an internal environment isolated from an external atmosphere, e.g., during the conditioning process. In an example, the enclosure is configured to ensuring (e.g., substantially) stable electrochemical conditions for charge carrier pre-loading. The internal environment of the enclosure may be structured to allow continuous liquid exchange between the bath and / or external reservoir(s), e.g., while sustaining uniform charge carrier diffusion. The enclosure may comprise: (i) an electrolyte intake system, (ii) a charge carrier replenishment mechanism, (iii) an electrolyte filtration unit, and / or (iv) a controlled gas purging system. The electrolyte intake system may regulate flow rate and / or electrolyte composition to promote (e.g., ensure) even charge carrier distribution. The charge carrier replenishment mechanism may comprise an ion-selective structure that prevents localized depletion zones. The electrolyte filtration unit may eliminate reaction byproducts and preserve ionic balance. The gas purging system may sustain an inert atmosphere for electrochemical stability.

[0171] In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to house multiple electrodes. The electrodes (e.g., a plurality of electrodes) may be immersed in the liquid of the bath for conditioning, e.g., for charge carrier pre-loading. The conditioning may be carried out under controlled conditions. The enclosure may comprise electrode positioning mechanisms such asAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrode holders, guiding slots, and / or automated insertion and extraction systems. The electrode positioning mechanisms may control (e.g., regulate) electrode alignment, immersion duration, and / or extraction. The positioning mechanisms may be optimized for the conditioning, e.g., for the charge carrier uptake. The positioning mechanisms may be optimized for the conditioning operations and / or their timing. The enclosure may be operatively coupled with a fluid circulation system that directs fluid flow through structured conduits. At least a portion of the fluid circulation system may be external to the enclosure. At least a portion of the fluid circulation system may be internal to the enclosure. At least a portion of the fluid circulation system may be embedded in at least a wall of the enclosure. The circulation system may support (e.g., continuous) liquid replenishment during the conditioning process. The enclosure may comprise control (e.g., monitoring) system, e.g., an external system. The control system may track electrolyte composition, charge carrier diffusion rates, and / or process stability, e.g., using real-time sensing and control scheme such as disclosed herein, e.g., feedback control schemes.

[0172] In some embodiments, the enclosure facilitates electrode conditioning under controlled environmental and / or electrochemical conditions. The enclosure may sustain an internal environment that is isolated from the ambient environment, enabling uninterrupted liquid (e.g., electrolyte) exchange, and / or regulated charge carrier diffusion. The enclosure may comprise: (i) a liquid intake system such as using a calibrated flow valve, (ii) a charge carrier replenishment mechanism such as including an ion-selective membrane, (iii) a filtration unit, and / or (iv) a gas purging system. The intake system may regulate liquid composition and flow rate, e.g., to control uniform carrier ion distribution. The conditioning system (e.g., using a charge carrier replenishment mechanism) may sustain electrochemical balance, e.g., by hindering (e.g., preventing) localized concentration variations (e.g., charge carrier depletion), e.g., within a threshold tolerance. The threshold may include a window, a value, and / or a function. The fluid system may comprise a filtration unit. The filtration unit may remove accumulated byproducts, e.g., while maintaining ionic consistency. The gas system may stabilize the enclosure atmosphere, e.g., by reducing reactive species, and / or by applying a positive internal pressure in the enclosure relative to the ambient pressure in the ambient environment. The fluid system may comprise the gas system and the liquid system.

[0173] In some embodiments, the electrode(s) are immersed within the bath under defined (e.g., buffering) conditions. The positioning may be regulated using: (i) holders such as comprising spring-loaded clamps, (ii) guiding slots such as channel-based grooves, and / or (iii) automated insertion and extraction mechanisms such as programmable robotic actuators. TheAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOpositioning may be of the electrodes and / or of the carrier ion source. The immersion may be timed, e.g., to maximize charge carrier uptake across the active material surface and / or of liquid exchange such as from one electrolyte mixture to another. The enclosure may be operatively coupled to a circulation system that maintains pre-determined electrolyte renewal pace through: (i) conduits such as tubing, (ii) flow regulation channels, and / or (iii) integrated replenishment reservoirs. The conditioning system may be coupled with external control (e.g., monitoring) components configured to track: (i) electrolyte composition such as by ion concentration sensors, (ii) charge carrier diffusion rates such as by impedance analyzers, (ii) liquid composition such as by mass spectrum analyzers, and / or (iii) system stability such as using closed-loop control logic or any other control scheme such as disclosed herein. The liquid composition analyzers may comprise optical analyzers. The liquid composition analyzers may comprise UV, I R, NMR, X-ray, elemental analysis, mass spectrum, or any other material analyzers, as applicable.

[0174] In some embodiments, an enclosure system facilitates the electrode conditioning using a closed-loop liquid circulation architecture. The enclosure may maintain an isolated internal environment, wherein the liquid (e.g., electrolyte mixture) is retained and recirculated, e.g., without continuous exchange with external reservoirs. The internal environment may be stabilized to minimize material loss and / or support controlled conditioning operations such as charge carrier diffusion and / or exchange of the type of liquid in the bath. The enclosure may comprise: (i) a liquid retention compartment such as a sealed chamber, (ii) a formulation compartment configured to prepare the liquid mixture used in the bath, (iii) a gas stabilization unit such as pressure-regulated gas chamber, and / or (iv) an integrated recycling mechanism. The formulation compartment and / or the liquid retention compartment may comprise a seal such as any seal disclosed herein. The formulation compartment and / or the liquid retention compartment may be configured to minimize presence of the reactive species present in the ambient environment, into the respective compartment. Minimizing the presence of the reactive species may be using the seal and / or overpressure in the respective compartment, relative to the ambient pressure. The enclosure may comprise: (i) an electrolyte retention compartment such as a sealed buffering chamber, (ii) a charge carrier diffusion system such as iondistribution control module, (iii) a gas stabilization unit such as pressure-regulated gas chamber, (iv) a fluid mixture compartment, and / or (v) an integrated recycling mechanism. In some embodiments, the fluid mixture compartment may be the fluid conduit. The mixing may take place in the conduit(s) of the fluid system. The electrolyte retention compartment may sustain a predefined charge carrier concentration. The diffusion system may regulate charge carrierAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOinteraction with the electrode active material, e.g., surface thereof. The gas system (e.g., the gas stabilization unit thereof) may be configure to (e.g., actively and / or passively) remove reactive gases and sustain an inert atmosphere. The recycling mechanism may purify and / or reintroduce, pre-conditioned liquid component (e.g., electrolyte), such as to maintain ionic consistency and / or liquid composition. The enclosure may be configured to hold multiple electrodes during conditioning. The electrodes and / or charge carrier source are positioned relative to the bath. The positioning may be achieved using: (i) guiding slots such as micromachined tracks, (ii) adjustable electrode holders, and / or (iii) immersion control mechanisms such as programmable lift actuators. These structural components of the conditioning system may promote (e.g., ensure) optimal immersion depth, relative positioning of the electrodes relative to each other, relative positioning of the electrodes relative to the bath, relative positioning of the electrodes relative to the charge carrier source, relative positioning of the charge carrier source relative to the bath, and / or duration of the conditioning process. The enclosure may comprise, or be operatively coupled with a fluid system such as disclosed herein. The fluid system may comprise the gas system. The gas system may be structured to regulate the internal atmosphere through: (i) infusion of gas depleted by the reactive species, (ii) reactive species gas extraction, and / or (iii) pressure balancing. The atmosphere within the enclosure may be controlled (e.g., monitored and stabilized) to optimize the conditioning operation, e.g., buffering. Optimization may be with respect to time and / or homogeneity of the affected conditioning on the electrodes. The atmosphere within the enclosure may be controlled (e.g., monitored and stabilized) to optimize homogeneity of the charge carrier interaction with the electrode active material, e.g., at minimal time. The atmosphere within the enclosure may be controlled (e.g., monitored and stabilized) to hinder (e.g., prevent) electrode degradation.

[0175] In some embodiments, the closed-loop liquid circulation is optimized through a set of control systems that regulate: (i) liquid flow such as flow-controlled micro-pumps, (ii) charge carrier replenishment such as from lithium-ion source, (iii) passivation layer (e.g., SEI) buildup on the electrode, and / or (iv) electrochemical monitoring such as feedback-controlled impedance sensors. The system may maintain consistent conditioning efficiency, minimize waste, and enable high-throughput electrode conditioning prior to final assembly. The liquid may comprise the electrolyte.

[0176] Fig. 12 shows in examples 1200 and 1250 two examples of bath configuration relative to the enclosure. In Fig. 1200, bath 1201 is disposed in enclosure 1202, the bath being devoid of a lid. In example 1250, bath 1251 forms a portion of the enclosure, with the second portion being lid 1252. Fig. 12 illustrates in examples 1200 and 1250 structures enabling the methodologiesAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOdisclosed herein. Examples 1200 and 1250 represent structural configurations of the electrolyte buffering enclosure system disclosed herein. The structural configuration(s) shown are designed in alignment with the electrochemical cell architecture described in any of Figs. 1-7 and 17. The structural configuration(s) in examples 1200 and 1250 promote (e.g., ensure) compatibility with the methodologies disclosed herein. The structural configuration(s) in examples 1200 and 1250 enable controlled conditioning such as electrochemical conditioning, before integration into a functional device such as batteries. The structural example 1200 comprises enclosure 1202 in which bath 1201 is disposed. Enclosure 1202 may be configured to regulate the electrode conditioning process, e.g., through an open-cycle liquid system. Bath 1201 includes liquid 1203 that is open to the internal environment 1206 of enclosure 1202. A fluid system can be part of, or operatively coupled with, enclosure 1202, which fluid system is not shown in Fig. 12. Steering system 1204 includes an agitator (e.g., stirrer) disposed in bath 1201. Bath 1201 includes electrodes such as electrode 1205, the electrodes being electrically coupled with busbar 1207. Current collector source 1208 is electrically coupled to the electrodes by electrical source 1209 disposed externally to enclosure 1202. The structural example 1250 comprises an enclosure formed by engaging bath 1251 with lid 1252 to generate the enclosure. The enclosure may be configured to regulate the electrode conditioning process, e.g., through an open-cycle liquid system. Bath 1251 includes liquid 1253 that is open to the internal environment 1256 of enclosure 1252. A fluid system can be part of, or operatively coupled with, enclosure 1252, which fluid system is not shown in Fig. 12. Steering system 1254 includes an agitator (e.g., stirrer) disposed in bath 1251. Bath 1251 includes electrodes such as electrode 1255, the electrodes being electrically coupled with busbar 1257. Current collector source 1258 is electrically coupled to the electrodes by electricity source 1259 disposed externally to the enclosure. The electricity source can be the power grid, or another electrical source, e.g., a generator. The electrical source may or may not comprise renewable electrical sources. A control system can be coupled to any of the conditioning systems in examples 1200 and 1250, the control system not shown on Fig. 12.

[0177] In some embodiments, the enclosure comprises: (i) at least one fluid intake system; (iii) at least one fluid filtration unit; (iv) at least one fluid recycling filtration unit; (v) at least one mixing unit to form a fluid mixture; and / or (v) at least one controlled fluid purging system. The fluid may include liquid and / or gas. The fluid mixture may be generated by mixing fluid, gas, and / or solid. The fluid system may allow regulation of flow rate and / or composition. The regulation may be carried by the fluid system and / or by a control system operatively coupled with the fluid system. The fluid system may include the gas system and / or the liquid system.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOThe fluid intake and / or bath circulation may contribute to uniform charge carrier distribution within the electrolyte medium, e.g., may be configured for such contribution. The charge carrier replenishment mechanism may reduce (e.g., measurably and / or substantially prevent) inhomogeneous distribution of conditioning of the electrodes. The inhomogeneous conditioning may include localized depletion zones and / or localized access zones. The fluid system may sustain a uniform electrochemical environment for the electrodes. The filtration unit may remove reaction byproducts, e.g., while maintaining ionic balance.

[0178] In some embodiments, the electrodes are immersed within the bath in an internal environment different from the ambient environment, e.g., the internal environment being defined by the enclosure. The electrodes may undergo charge carrier pre-loading, e.g., under controlled conditions. The enclosure may comprise electrode positioning mechanisms, such as: (i) electrode holders such as precision-aligned clamps or brackets; (ii) guiding slots such as precision-aligned grooves; and / or (iii) automated insertion and extraction systems such as robotic actuators. These, or similar, mechanisms may regulate immersion duration and / or optimize charge carrier uptake. The enclosure may be operatively coupled with an external fluid circulation system that directs fluid flow through fluidic channels and / or tubing such as conduits. The conduits may be lined, e.g., by a polymer and / or a resin. The circulation system may sustain (e.g., continuous) liquid replenishment, optimizing efficiency of the conditioning process. In an example, the circulation system sustains (e.g., continuous) electrolyte replenishment, optimizing charge carrier pre-loading efficiency. In an example, the circulation system sustains (e.g., continuous) liquid exchange, e.g., to change from one buffer to another, or to clean the electrodes such as from the buffer. The enclosure may be integrated with a control system such as disclosed herein. The control system may be operatively coupled with the conditioning system, or may be part of the conditioning system. The control system may track: (i) bath liquid composition such as by using material sensors; (ii) charge carrier diffusion rates such as by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy; and / or (iii) process stability such as by using real-time feedback control during the conditioning. The charge carrier diffusion ratees may utilize one or more ionic sensors, e.g., charge sensors.

[0179] In some embodiments, the enclosure incorporates a controlled liquid retention mechanism. The liquid may comprise the electrolyte. The liquid retention mechanism may facilitate (e.g., configured to allow) charge carrier diffusion, e.g., without requiring electrolyte replacement. The electrolyte replacement may be continuous or intermittent. The electrolyte replacement may be according to any replacement scheme disclosed herein. The replacement may be abrupt or gradual. The gradual replacement may or may not be continuous. The gradualAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOreplacement may be based at least in part on a liner function, a non-linear function, or any combination thereof. The function may be based at least in part on a concentration gradient vs. time. The enclosure may comprise: (i) a liquid retention compartment such as a sealed reservoir for material storage; (ii) a gas retention compartment such as a sealed reservoir for gas storage; (iii) a gas stabilization unit such as a reactive gas scrubber; and / or (iv) an integrated fluid circulation mechanism. The fluid (e.g., comprising an electrolyte) retention compartment may sustain a predefined charge carrier concentration. The fluid retention compartment may reduce (e.g., measurably and / or substantially prevent) fluctuations during conditioning such as buffering. The charge carrier diffusion system may optimize electrode interaction with the electrolyte medium, e.g., to reduce inhomogeneity in charge carrier uptake. The conditioning system may comprise the charge carrier diffusion system. The charge carrier diffusion system may comprise a control system, e.g., controlling (i) the voltage differential between the electrodes and the charge carrier source and / or (ii) the amount of current provided to the charge carrier source.

[0180] In some embodiments, the enclosure is designed to accommodate electrodes, to sustain (e.g., substantially) uniform charge carrier distribution across the electrode active material. The electrodes may be positioned using: (i) guiding slots such as alignment grooves for controlled placement; (ii) adjustable electrode holders such as support structures for secure mounting; and / or (iii) a precision-controlled immersion mechanism such as a programmable insertion platform. The structural components disclosed herein may maintain electrode alignment, optimizing charge carrier diffusion and distribution across the electrode active material. The enclosure may integrate a fluid system (e.g., a closed-loop fluid circulation unit), e.g., a gas system to regulate the enclosure atmosphere. The gas system may sustain an environment having a reduced concentration of reactive species present in the ambient environment, reducing occurrence of undesired electrochemical reactions and charge carrier degradation. The gas system (e.g., using a gas stabilization unit) may remove reactive byproducts, ensuring prolonged electrolyte stability. The gas system (e.g., using a gas stabilization unit) may control the pressure of the internal enclosure environment to be in an overpressure.

[0181] In some embodiments, a closed-loop fluid circulation system within the enclosure is designed to optimize charge carrier utilization. The recycling mechanism may filter and / or reintroduce pre-conditioned fluid, minimizing waste, e.g., while sustaining ionic consistency. The enclosure may be integrated with (e.g., automated and / or manual) control system. The control system may regulate: (i) fluid flow such as by pumping modules; (ii) charge carrierAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOreplenishment; and / or (iii) process tracking for electrochemical stability such as using real-time conductivity monitoring).

[0182] In some embodiments, the methodologies disclosed herein comprise an electrode conditioning process (also referred to as the “conditioning process”). The conditioning process may include (i) an immersion process, (ii) a circulation process, (iii) a liquid substitution process, (iv) an extraction process, (v) an integration process, (vi) a liquid component controlling process, (vii) a liquid recycling process, (vi) a passivation layer forming process, and / or (vi) a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the conditioning process may include (i) an immersion process, (ii) a circulation process, (iii) a liquid substitution process, (iv) an extraction process, (v) an integration process, (vi) a liquid component control process, (vii) a liquid recycling process, (viii) a passivation layer forming process, and / or (ix) any combination thereof. The immersion process may comprise immersing one or more electrodes containing electrode active material in a bath. The liquid may be added to the bath before, during, and / or after placement of the electrodes in the bath. The immersion process may comprise immersing one or more electrodes containing electrode active material in a bath. The liquid may be added to the bath before, during, and / or after placement of the charge carrier source in the bath. In an example, the liquid is in the bath before the electrodes and / or the charge carrier source, are added to the bath. The circulation process may comprise facilitating movement of liquid and / or charge carriers for a duration sufficient to achieve the requested (e.g., homogenous) conditioning of the electrodes. The liquid substitution process may comprise replacing the liquid (e.g., mixture) in the bath, e.g., to replace the liquid with which the active material is immersed in. In an example, the liquid substitution process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. The conditioning process may comprise removing the conditioned electrodes from the bath under controlled conditions. The integration process may comprise assembling the conditioned electrodes into a cell according to the described architecture. The control process may be performed to regulate (i) the liquid (e.g., fluid mixture), (ii) the charge carriers, and / or (iii) the atmosphere of the enclosure. The passivation layer forming process may comprise introducing charge carriers that at least partially react with the electrolyte mixture to generate a passivation layer on the electrode active material, e.g., SEI layer. The passivation layer may comprise a solid electrolyte. The control process may promote (e.g., ensure) (e.g., measurable and / or substantial) consistency in chemical composition, e.g., of the electrode active material. The control process may maintain optimal electrochemical conditions throughout the conditioning cycle. In an example, the control process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. The fluid recycling process may be performed to reclaim and / or reintroduce (i)Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOthe liquid, (ii) the charge carriers, and / or (iii) the gas (e.g., the atmosphere). The recycling process may maintain resource efficiency. The recycling may sustain electrode stability across multiple conditioning cycles. In an example, the recycling process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. At least two operations of the methodologies disclosed herein may be implemented in a sequentially, and / or simultaneously.

[0183] In some embodiments, the methodologies disclosed herein comprise a buffering process (also referred to as the “pre-loading process”). The buffering process may include (i) an immersion process, (ii) a circulation process, (iii) an electrolyte substitution process, (iv) an extraction process, (v) an integration process, (vi) an electrolyte controlling process, (vii) an electrolyte recycling process, (vi) a passivation layer forming process, and / or (vi) a combination thereof. In some embodiments, the buffering process may include (i) an immersion process, (ii) a circulation process, (iii) an electrolyte substitution process, (iv) an extraction process, (v) an integration process, (vi) an electrolyte control process, (vii) an electrolyte recycling process, (viii) a passivation layer forming process, and / or (ix) any combination thereof. The immersion process may comprise immersing one or more electrodes containing electrode active material in a bath. The bath comprises an electrolyte and / or charge carriers (e.g., lithium ions). The circulation process may comprise facilitating the movement of charge carriers for a duration sufficient to achieve saturation of the active material with charge carriers and / or formation of a passivation layer (e.g., solid electrolyte interphase). The electrolyte substitution process may comprise replacing the electrolyte optimal for buffering, where applicable, with another electrolyte optimal for the prescribed cell performance such as cycling between charged and discharged states in a secondary battery. In an example, the electrolyte substitution process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. The extraction process may comprise removing the buffered electrodes from the bath under controlled conditions. The integration process may comprise assembling the buffered electrodes into a cell according to the described architecture. The electrolyte control process may be performed to regulate (i) the electrolyte mixture, (ii) the charge carriers, and / or (iii) the buffering atmosphere. The passivation layer forming process may comprise introducing charge carriers that at least partially react with the electrolyte mixture to generate a passivation layer on the electrode active material, e.g., SEI layer. The passivation layer may comprise a solid electrolyte. The electrolyte control process may promote (e.g., measurable and / or substantial) consistency in chemical composition. The electrolyte control process may maintain optimal electrochemical conditions throughout the buffering cycle. In an example, the electrolyte control process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. The electrolyte recycling process may be performed to reclaimAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOand / or reintroduce (i) the electrolyte mixture, (ii) charge carriers, and / or (iii) the buffering atmosphere. The recycling process may maintain resource efficiency and may sustain ionic stability across multiple buffering cycles. In an example, the electrolyte recycling process is optional for implementing the methodologies disclosed herein. The methodologies disclosed herein may be implemented in a specified sequence and / or simultaneously, based on the application requirements.

[0184] In some embodiments, the electrodes undergo a conditioning process. The process may include (I) immersing at least one electrode containing an electrode active material in a bath configured to contain conditioning liquid; (II) circulating the liquid for a time duration sufficient to achieve the requested conditioning; (III) optionally substituting the conditioning liquid to another liquid; removing (e.g., extracting) the electrode(s) from the bath such as under controlled conditions such as controlled atmosphere; (IV) integrating the removed electrode(s) into a cell in accordance with a prescribed cell architecture; and (V) optionally controlling (a) the liquid mixture, (b) any charge carriers and / or (c) conditioning atmosphere in the enclosure of the conditioning system. When the liquid, charge carriers and / or atmosphere, requires change, operations (II) - (V) may start anew. The methodology may comprise recycling (a) the liquid, (b) charge carriers and / or (c) atmosphere. The recycling may be on or after extracting the pre-loaded electrode(s) from the bath such as under controlled conditions, e.g., to reduce side reactions, and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination. The recycling may be ongoing during operation of the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process.

[0185] Fig. 13 shows an example conditioning process. In block 1302, immersing at least one electrode containing an electrode active material in a bath containing a first liquid configured for conditioning of the electrodes, e.g., conditioning the active martial of the electrodes; in block 1304, agitating the first liquid to achieve the requested conditioning of the electrodes; in block 1306, optionally substituting the first liquid with a second liquid; in block 1308, removing the conditioned electrode(s) from the bath, e.g., under controlled conditions such as to maintain integrity of the electrodes and / or prevent contamination; in block 1310, integrating the removed electrode(s) into a target device in accordance with a prescribed target device architecture. In block 1312, optionally controlling (a) the first liquid, (b) conditioning parameters and / or (c) internal atmosphere of the conditioning system. When the first liquid, conditioning parameters and / or internal atmosphere require change, operations 1304, 1306, 1308, and 1310 may start anew, as illustrated by arrow 1322. In block 1314, optionally recycling (a) the first liquid, (b) the second liquid and / or (c) the internal atmosphere, e.g., on or after extracting the conditioned electrode(s) were removed from the bath such as under controlled conditions, e.g., to maintainAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrode integrity and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination - in block 1308. The recycling may be ongoing during operation of the conditioning process.

[0186] Fig. 14 shows an example conditioning process, e.g., a buffering and / or initial passivation layer formation process. In block 1402, immersing at least one electrode containing an electrode active material in a bath containing charge carriers in a first liquid comprising an electrolyte, the first liquid being in the bath; in block 1403, generating charge carriers released to the first liquid in the bath; in block 1404, agitating (e.g., circulating) the first liquid to distribute the charge carriers within the first liquid for a time duration sufficient to achieve saturation of the electrode active material and optional formation of a SEI layer, to generate formed electrodes; in block 1406, optionally substituting the first liquid with a second liquid, such as when electrolyte replacement is required based on process conditions; in block 1408, removing (e.g., extracting) the formed electrode(s) from the bath, which removal may be under controlled conditions, e.g., to maintain charge carrier distribution maintain integrity of the electrodes, and / or reduce (e.g., prevent) contamination; in block 1410, integrating the extracted electrode(s) into a cell in accordance with a prescribed cell architecture of the target device. In block 1412, optionally controlling (a) the first liquid, (b) charge carriers and / or (c) internal atmosphere of the conditioning system in which the buffering is performed. When the first liquid, charge carriers and / or internal atmosphere requires change, operations 1404, 1406, 1408, and 1410 may start anew, as illustrated by arrow 1422. In block 1414, optionally recycling (a) the first liquid, (b) second liquid, (c) charge carriers and / or (d) internal atmosphere, e.g., on or after extracting the pre-loaded electrode(s) from the bath under controlled conditions such as to maintain charge carrier distribution and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination - in block 1408. The recycling may be ongoing during operation of the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process. Agitating (e.g., circulating) the first liquid may be to distribute the charge carriers within the first liquid (e.g., substantially) homogenously and / or evenly across the first liquid in the bath. The second liquid may be a second buffering liquid. The second liquid may be a rinsing (e.g., cleaning) liquid. The second liquid may comprise electrolyte formulated for operation of the target device (e.g., cell performance).

[0187] In some embodiments, the electrolyte control process is implemented as part of the conditioning methodology. The electrolyte control process may regulate (i) the composition of the electrolyte mixture, (ii) the concentration of charge carrier(s), and / or (iii) the atmosphere within the enclosure. The composition of the electrolyte mixture may be adjusted to sustain ionic balance and chemical compatibility, e.g., regulation of lithium salt concentration in organic solvent mixtures. The concentration of charge carrier(s) may be monitored to hinder (e.g.,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOprevent) localized depletion and / or saturation, e.g., tracking lithium-ion concentration via conductivity sensors. The atmosphere may be controlled using environmental control components such as gas purging systems and / or reactive species regulators, e.g., introduction of argon, nitrogen, and / or clean dry air, to maintain inert conditions.

[0188] In some embodiments, the control process comprises real-time control of physicochemical properties, e.g., pH, conductivity, viscosity, chemical makeup, and / or temperature. In an example, sensor feedback is used to activate compensatory mechanisms. The compensatory mechanism may (i) infuse additives, (ii) adjust ratios of components in the mixture, and / or (iii) modify environmental parameters - on or more characteristics of the environment such as disclosed herein. The additive infusion may sustain electrolyte stability and / or inhibit degradation pathways, e.g., incorporation of stabilizers to hinder (e.g., prevent) solvent decomposition. In an example, the electrolyte control process is integrated with a programmable control system configured to autonomously maintain predefined electrochemical conditions across multiple cycles. The electrolyte control process may be selectively applied depending at least in part on the type of electrode material, charge carrier(s), liquid utilized, temperature, voltage differential applied, pressure, fluid flow rate, fluid circulation rate, and / or conditioning duration. The control process may be bypassed, e.g., when the electrolyte exhibits self-stabilizing behavior under buffered conditions. The electrolyte control process may be bypassed when (e.g., manual) calibration of the electrolyte is sufficient. In applications requiring high reproducibility and / or throughput, the electrolyte control process may improve uniformity across batches, enabling consistent charge carrier uptake prior to integration.

[0189] In some embodiments, the fluid recycling process is implemented, e.g., to maintain chemical consistency and / or resource efficiency during the conditioning operation. The electrolyte recycling process may recover (i) the liquid (e.g., any component of the liquid mixture), (ii) charge carrier(s), and / or (iii) the atmosphere. The recovery of any component of the liquid may comprise filtration and / or separation of unwanted byproducts, e.g., removal of lithium dendrites or other debris. The charge carrier(s) may be replenished based at least in part on depletion rate measurements to sustain target ionic concentrations, e.g., dosing lithium salts based on conductivity sensor feedback. The recycling process may reintroduce (i) the liquid, (ii) charge carrier(s), and / or (iii) the atmosphere. The recycling process may incorporate purification mechanisms such as chemical filtration, ion exchange, and / or solvent fractionation, e.g., to restore conditioning performance metrics. The internal atmosphere of the enclosure may be recycled, e.g., using gas filters and / or condensers to capture and reintroduce the gases, e.g., different from the ambient atmosphere. The recycling process may be configured for continuousAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOand / or batch operation. The configuration for the recycling process may depend at least in part on system scale, the conditioning type utilized, and / or any electrolyte demand.

[0190] In some embodiments, the electrolyte recycling process reduces material waste. The electrolyte recycling process may reduce environmental impact. The electrolyte recycling process may enable sustained conditioning (e.g., buffering) performance across multiple electrode batches. The liquid system may comprise automated control systems, e.g., to adjust recycling frequency. The automated control systems may adjust flow rates, e.g., based at least in part on real-time monitoring of electrolyte condition and / or charge carrier availability.

[0191] In some embodiments, the electrode comprising the active material is immersed in the bath. The bath may comprise (i) an electrolyte and / or (ii) charge carrier(s), e.g., mobile ions such as lithium ions. The electrolyte may facilitate controlled pre-loading and / or passivation, of the active material. The electrolyte and / or the charge carrier(s) may synergistically facilitate controlled pre-loading of the active material. The electrolyte and / or the charge carrier(s) may dynamically facilitate controlled pre-loading of the active material. A direct exposure of the active material to charge carrier(s) in a liquid medium (e.g., comprising the electrolyte) may enhance charge carrier(s) interaction with the active material, and / or enhanced formation of the passivation layer such as an SEI layer. As compared to respective processes utilized on constructed cells in a battery, the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process disclosed herein may result in a greater uniformity across the electrodes, the greater uniformity being of charge carrier distribution and / or of passivation. The enhanced interaction may hinder (e.g., prevent) spatial inconsistencies that may arise in conventional pre-loading methods, e.g., when the electrodes are assembled in a battery. The electrolyte may function as a transport medium for the charge carrier(s). The electrolyte may enable charge mobility by providing a medium to facilitate diffusion of the charge carrier(s). The electrolyte may facilitate penetration into the active material of the electrodes, by ensuring efficient ion transport. The electrolyte in the bath may enhance charge carrier(s) uptake and / or promote uniform charge distribution throughout the electrode, as compared to conventional pre-loading schemes.

[0192] In some embodiments, the process control for immersing the electrode in the bath is governed by one or more parameters. The one or more parameters may be configured for efficient charge carrier uptake and / or uniform distribution. The parameter(s) may include (i) bath composition, (ii) charge carrier concentration, and / or (iii) exposure duration. The bath composition may influence the chemical and / or physical properties, of the liquid therein such as viscosity, charge carrier mobility, or any combination thereof. The charge carrier concentration may regulate the availability of charge carriers for interaction with the electrode material such asAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOrelative lithium-ion concentration. The exposure duration may at least in part determine the length of time the electrode remains in contact with the liquid, e g., buffering time. The exposure duration may be monitored to allow sufficient time for charge carrier diffusion into the electrode active material (also referred to as “active material” herein). The process parameters may be adjusted, e.g., to optimize charge carrier loading while hindering (e.g., preventing) conditions that may result in unintended electrochemical reactions, material degradation, and / or other instabilities. The process parameters may be adjusted, e.g., to optimize for liquid (e.g., buffer) exchange, while hindering (e.g., preventing) conditions that may result in unintended electrochemical reactions, material degradation, and / or other instabilities.

[0193] In some embodiments, structural and / or compositional attributes of the electrode active material dictate the efficiency of charge carrier(s) uptake. The structural and / or compositional attributes of the electrode active material may be considered in determining immersion conditions. The structural attributes may comprise (i) porosity, (ii) surface morphology, and / or (iii) conductivity. The compositional attributes may comprise (i) porosity, (ii) surface morphology, and / or (iii) conductivity. The porosity may influence the accessibility of charge carriers to internal regions of the active material, e.g., electrolyte penetration depth. The surface morphology may govern the extent of interfacial interactions between the charge carrier(s) and the electrode material (e.g., surface roughness). The conductivity may affect charge transfer dynamics and / or charge retention capacity such as electrical resistivity. The structural and / or compositional attributes may influence diffusion kinetics of the charge carrier(s). The diffusion kinetics may affect the movement and / or distribution of the charge carrier(s) within the electrode material. A precise control over bath conditions may be required to achieve uniform charge saturation throughout the electrode.

[0194] In some embodiments, multiple parameters are adjusted during the process of immersing the electrode in the bath. The parameters may control charge carrier(s) uptake and / or distribution. The process parameters may be configured to (i) control charge carrier(s) diffusion throughout the electrode material, (ii) hinder (e.g., prevent) localized overloading of the charge carrier(s), (iii) hinder (e.g., prevent) localized depletion of the charge carrier(s) that may result in electrochemical instability, (iv) mitigate degradation effects arising from overexposure, and / or (v) mitigate degradation effects arising from unwanted secondary reactions. A set of conditions comprising (i) temperature, (ii) agitation (e.g., stirring) rate, and / or (iii) electrolyte composition may be controlled to maintain charge carrier(s) stability. The set of conditions may be controlled to hinder (e.g., prevent) adverse effects such as (i) precipitation, (ii) phase separation, and / or (iii) electrolyte decomposition. The control of parameters may promote (e.g.,Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOensure) that the electrolyte remains in a controlled state to facilitate uniform charge distribution. In an example, control of parameters preserves the intended charge carrier(s) saturation throughout the electrode material (e.g., ensuring homogeneity in lithium-ion distribution)

[0195] In some embodiments, the immersion process is carefully executed, e.g., to maintain the uniform distribution of charge carriers. The execution of the immersion process can promote (e.g., ensure) that the electrochemical stability of the electrode is preserved prior to further processing. The immersion process control disclosed herein may hinder (e.g., prevent) the formation of inconsistencies during the conditioning process. The inconsistencies, such as localized charge imbalances and / or non-uniform charge loading, may undermine the overall performance of the electrochemical device. The application of precise bath conditions may contribute to improved efficiency by (i) enhancing charge carrier(s) uptake, (ii) mitigating degradation risks, and / or (iii) ensuring the controlled electrochemical properties of the electrode are maintained throughout its operational life.

[0196] In some embodiments, the circulation process is structured to facilitate charge carrier(s) movement within the bath, e.g., to enhance diffusion kinetics. The circulation process may be implemented through the fluid circulation mechanism. The circulation process may sustain a uniform charge carrier(s) concentration throughout the bath, promote (e.g., ensure) optimized penetration into the electrode active material, and / or promote (e.g., ensure) optimized liquid exchange, as applicable. The circulation process may regulate charge carrier(s) exposure to hinder (e.g., prevent) localized depletion zones and sustain electrochemical uniformity. The circulation process may be implemented to achieve (i) prevention of localized charge carrier(s) depletion zones, (ii) continuous replenishment of charge carriers at the electrode surface, and / or (iii) homogeneous saturation of the active material. The prevention of localized charge carrier(s) depletion zones may promote (e.g., ensure) that the electrode surfaces receive uniform exposure to the electrolyte medium, e.g., consistent ion availability. The continuous replenishment of charge carriers at the electrode surface may sustain charge carrier(s) availability, reducing (e.g., preventing) saturation imbalances that could affect buffering performance such as reducing (e.g., eliminating) charge starvation effects. The homogeneous saturation of the active material may promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier(s) loading occurs evenly across the electrode, e.g., reducing variability in electrochemical behaviour such as by minimizing non-uniform ion uptake.

[0197] In some embodiments, the interaction between the charge carriers and the electrode active material is (e.g., precisely) controlled to sustain uniform charge diffusion. The charge carrier(s) may be introduced at controlled flow rates within the bath to mitigate spatial variationsAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOin charge carrier(s) concentration. The regulation of (i) circulation speed, (ii) temperature, and / or (iii) charge carrier(s) concentration may sustain electrochemical stability. The spatial variations in charge carrier(s) concentration may induce localized overloading or depletion, resulting in non-uniform electrochemical performance, e.g., inconsistent charge distribution leading to voltage fluctuations. The electrochemical instability may reduce charge retention capacity and / or device longevity, e.g., premature capacity fade in rechargeable cells. The precise regulation of circulation parameters may promote (e.g., ensure) consistent charge carrier(s) interaction with the electrode, maintaining electrochemical efficiency across multiple buffering cycles, e.g., promoting uniform ion intercalation.

[0198] In some embodiments, the duration of charge carrier(s) circulation is determined based on a set of diffusion kinetics attributes. The diffusion kinetics attributes may comprise (i) equilibrium between charge carrier(s) diffusion and material absorption properties, (ii) variations in electrode porosity affecting ion transport efficiency, (iii) surface reactivity influencing charge carrier(s) retention, and / or (iv) charge storage capacity governing the saturation threshold of the active material. The equilibrium between charge carrier(s) diffusion and material absorption properties may define the optimal buffering time required for achieving complete charge carrier(s) loading (e.g., balancing ion uptake rates for efficient saturation). The variations in electrode porosity may dictate ion transport efficiency and determine charge carrier(s) distribution within the electrode structure (e.g., high-porosity materials promoting deeper ion penetration). The surface reactivity may regulate charge carrier(s) retention by influencing ionelectrode interactions (e.g., enhanced interfacial adhesion through surface functionalization). The charge storage capacity may set the upper limit for charge carrier(s) loading, preventing oversaturation, and / or maintaining structural integrity (e.g., avoiding lithium plating due to excess ion absorption).

[0199] In some embodiments, the circulation process regulates the formation of a passivation layer during charge carrier(s) interaction with the electrode active material. The formation of the passivation layer may require controlled circulation parameters to regulate (i) charge carrier(s) flow rate, (ii) electrolyte composition, and / or (iii) processing time. The charge carrier(s) flow rate may be adjusted to hinder (e.g., prevent) excessive material deposition on the electrode surface, e.g., preventing uncontrolled passivation layer growth. The electrolyte composition may be monitored to sustain controlled chemical interactions for passivation layer formation, e.g., balancing SEI layer formation rate. The processing time may be calibrated to promote (e.g., ensure) passivation layer stability without compromising charge carrier(s) mobility, e.g., avoiding SEI layer overgrowth that inhibits ion transport. The circulation parameters may be dynamicallyAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOadjusted to regulate (i) charge carrier(s) deposition, (ii) surface conductivity, and / or (iii) structural integrity. The charge carrier(s) deposition regulation may promote (e.g., ensure) uniform passivation without unwanted accumulation (e.g., preventing uneven film deposition on electrode surfaces). The surface conductivity regulation may sustain electrochemical reactivity for charge carrier(s) transport (e.g., ensuring stable ionic pathways). The structural integrity regulation may maintain the electrode’s mechanical stability over extended operational cycles (e.g., preventing material fracturing due to stress-induced passivation layer formation). The interaction between (i) charge carriers, (ii) electrolyte components, and / or (iii) electrode surface chemistry may be structured to sustain controlled electrochemical conditions (e.g., balancing redox reactions at the electrode-electrolyte interface). The control of electrochemical conditions may promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier(s) loading contributes to improved electrode performance, e.g., sustaining high coulombic efficiency in rechargeable cells. The control of electrochemical conditions may mitigate undesired secondary reactions that could degrade long-term electrochemical stability, e.g., minimizing electrolyte decomposition effects.

[0200] In some embodiments, the electrolyte substitution process is performed upon completion of the charge carrier(s) buffering process. The electrolyte utilized for buffering may be replaced with an electrolyte specifically formulated for long-term cell performance. In an example, the electrolyte substitution process is executed to promote (e.g., ensure) (i) compatibility with operational requirements specific to charging and discharging cycles, (ii) elimination of adverse interactions between residual buffering electrolyte components and the functional electrolyte within the target device, and / or (iii) stabilization of electrochemical conditions prior to integration into the prescribed device architecture. The electrolyte substitution process may be controlled to maintain uniform charge carrier(s) distribution within the electrode active material and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) unintended alterations in electrochemical behavior that could compromise device performance. In an example, controlled electrolyte exchange prevents variations in ionic concentration, which could lead to inconsistencies in charge storage efficiency, e.g., uneven lithium-ion distribution in rechargeable cells.

[0201] In some embodiments, the buffering electrolyte composition is analogous to the electrolyte designated for cell performance. A diluted form of the performance electrolyte may be then introduced into the bath to facilitate a controlled transition between pre-loading and operational conditions. The introduction of the diluted electrolyte may ensure a gradual shift in composition, aligning the electrolyte with the specific requirements for long-term electrochemical cycling (e.g., gradual Li-ion concentration adjustment to match cell conditions). The controlled transition may allow seamless integration into the target device’s operational environment byAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOensuring compatibility with long-term performance conditions required during charge and discharge cycles. In an example, the dilution is performed to (i) mitigate concentration gradients, (ii) hinder (e.g., prevent) abrupt compositional shifts, and / or (iii) sustain compatibility between the pre-loading electrolyte and the long-term electrochemical cycling requirements. The mitigation of concentration gradients may reduce the risk of differential ion transport, which could lead to charge carrier(s) accumulation in localized regions of the electrode (e.g., uneven lithiation effects in high-capacity electrodes). Abrupt compositional shifts may lead to (i) phase separation, (ii) precipitation, and / or (iii) chemical instability (e.g., formation of undesired lithium salt precipitates). In an example, the transition from the buffering electrolyte to the operational electrolyte composition is regulated to hinder (e.g., prevent) electrolyte-phase mismatch, which may compromise charge carrier(s) mobility and / or ionic conductivity within the electrode structure. The regulation of the transition may promote (e.g., ensure) preservation of electrochemical performance during the target device’s operational life, e.g., sustaining stable charge / discharge cycling capacity.

[0202] In some embodiments, the electrolyte substitution is conducted under controlled conditions to hinder (e.g., prevent) (i) disruption of the charge carrier(s) distribution established during pre-loading, (ii) unintended leaching of charge carriers from the electrode active material, and / or (iii) electrochemical instability arising from uncontrolled exchange of electrolyte constituents. The control of electrolyte substitution parameters may ensure that the electrode retains its pre-loaded charge carrier(s) state while remaining compatible with the functional electrolyte used in regular charging and discharging cycles (e.g., ensuring stable SEI layer formation in lithium-ion batteries). The electrolyte substitution parameters may comprise (i) exchange rate, (ii) solvent compatibility, and / or (iii) electrolyte additive retention. The exchange rate may regulate the gradual displacement of the buffering electrolyte to maintain electrochemical equilibrium, e.g., progressive mixing to avoid ion concentration fluctuations. The solvent compatibility may promote (e.g., ensure) that electrolyte components do not induce undesired side reactions, e.g., hindering (e.g., preventing) decomposition of lithium salts in organic solvents. The electrolyte additive retention may hinder (e.g., prevent) depletion of stabilizing agents crucial for long-term performance, e.g., preserving electrolyte film-forming additives to maintain interfacial stability. The electrolyte substitution process may contribute to (i) improved long-term electrochemical performance, (ii) enhanced electrochemical stability, and / or (iii) extended cycle life of the assembled electrochemical device. The electrolyte substitution process may ensure enhanced functionality and durability over multiple charge cycles, e.g., sustained capacity retention in secondary batteries.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0203] In some embodiments, conditioned electrodes are extracted from the bath upon completion of the conditioning process such as charge carrier(s) buffering process, or buffer exchange process. The extraction process may be performed under controlled conditions to preserve the distribution of charge carrier(s) within the electrode active material. The extraction process may hinder (e.g., prevent) (i) exposure to ambient conditions, (ii) mechanical disruption, and / or (iii) contamination. The exposure to ambient conditions may induce unwanted reactions, (e.g., oxidation). The unwanted reactions may compromise the electrochemical stability of the electrode material (e.g., oxidation of lithium-based electrodes leading to passivation layers). The mechanical disruption may compromise the structural integrity of the charge-loaded material, e.g., stress-induced cracks in high-capacity anodes. The contamination from external environmental factors may alter the electrochemical properties of the electrode by introducing impurities, e.g., adsorption of moisture affecting lithium-ion mobility.

[0204] In some embodiments, the extraction process is conducted in accordance with predefined material protection protocols. The material protocols may hinder (e.g., prevent) (i) disruption of charge carrier(s) retention, (ii) uncontrolled surface reactions, and / or (iii) mechanical stress. The disruption of charge carrier(s) retention may result in charge redistribution within the electrode, leading to non-uniform electrochemical properties, e.g., loss of lithium from pre-loaded silicon anodes due to prolonged exposure. The uncontrolled surface reactions may be caused by exposure to atmospheric gases, leading to undesirable surface modifications, e.g., reaction of lithium with oxygen forming lithium oxides. The mechanical stress may lead to deformation or cracking of the electrode structure, which may affect its long-term stability, e.g., fracturing of binder-free electrode films during handling.

[0205] In some embodiments, post-extraction processing operation(s) are performed to remove residual liquid (e.g., electrolyte) from the electrode surface. The post-extraction processing operation(s) may comprise (i) controlled drying, (ii) solvent exchange, and / or (iii) surface conditioning. The controlled drying may remove excess liquid without inducing phase separation and / or material degradation, e.g., vacuum-assisted drying to hinder (e.g., prevent) solvent evaporation instability. The solvent exchange may replace unwanted liquid residues with a compatible medium that aligns with the final liquid composition, e.g., replacing carbonate-based electrolytes with fluorinated solvents to enhance cycling stability. The surface conditioning may stabilize interfacial properties before integration into the target device architecture, e.g., passivation treatment of lithium metal electrodes to mitigate dendrite formation.

[0206] In some embodiments, extraction parameters are controlled to promote (e.g., ensure) process uniformity. The extraction parameters may comprise (i) handling methods, (ii)Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOenvironmental conditions, and / or (iii) exposure time limitations. The handling methods may minimize mechanical disturbance, hindering (e.g., preventing) structural deformation of the charge-loaded electrodes, e.g., robotic handling to hinder (e.g., prevent) pressure-induced microfractures. The environmental conditions such as humidity control, pressure control, and / or temperature control, may hinder (e.g., prevent) chemical alterations that may affect charge carrier(s) retention, e.g., maintaining an inert atmosphere to suppress moisture ingress. The exposure time limitations may reduce the risk of electrochemical instability by hindering (e.g., preventing) prolonged contact with reactive environmental factors, e.g., limiting air exposure duration of moisture-sensitive electrodes to at most about 240 seconds (sec), 180sec, 120 sec, 60 sec, 30sec or 10sec. In some embodiments, the extraction process is optimized to promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier-loaded electrodes (i) retain their pre-loaded state, (ii) sustain their electrochemical stability, and / or (iii) remain structurally intact for subsequent assembly into the prescribed cell configuration.

[0207] In some embodiments, electrodes are integrated into a cell in accordance with the prescribed architecture. The integration process may be implemented under controlled conditions to preserve the charge carrier(s) distribution achieved during pre-loading. The integration process may be configured to promote (e.g., ensure) (i) precise alignment of electrodes, (ii) enhancement of ion transport pathways, and / or (iii) preservation of electrochemical efficiency. The electrodes may be aligned relative to, and with, corresponding cell components. The cell components may comprise (i) separators, (ii) dividers, (iii) electrolyte mixture, (iv) constraint system, (v) endplates, (vi) busbars, (vii) cell housing, (viii) fuses, or (ix) any combination thereof. The enhancement of ion transport pathways may facilitate efficient charge transfer between electrode and counter electrode, e.g., at least in part by promoting (e.g., ensuring) consistent ion diffusion between the electrodes and electrolyte medium, e.g., uniform ionic conductivity across porous separators. The electrochemical efficiency may be preserved throughout the operational lifespan of the target device under normal operating conditions, e.g., by maintaining optimal electrode spacing. The structural integrity of the assembled configuration may be maintained at least in part by implementing assembly techniques that hinder (e.g., prevent) displacement or misalignment of individual cell components.

[0208] In some embodiments, structural considerations during the integration process comprise (i) electrode stacking configuration, (ii) interfacial contact quality, and / or (iii) mechanical compression parameters. The electrode stacking configuration may promote (e.g., ensure) uniform contact between active material layers to facilitate charge transfer. The interfacialAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcontact quality may enhance charge transfer efficiency and / or minimize resistance. The interfacial contact may hinder (e.g., prevent) energy loss during operation of the cell, e.g., reducing contact resistance between electrode and / or current collector. The mechanical compression parameters may maintain consistent electrode spacing and / or hinder (e.g., prevent) unwanted structural shifts that could affect electrochemical performance, e.g., applying uniform pressure during stacking to avoid electrode delamination. Such parameters may be controlled to sustain uniform charge distribution across active material regions and hinder (e.g., prevent) localized depletion or overloading that may compromise device functionality.

[0209] In some embodiments, the buffered electrodes require stabilization prior to integration. A set of post-processing operation(s) may be implemented to enhance interfacial compatibility. The post-processing operation(s) may comprise (i) thermal conditioning, (ii) pressure application, and / or (iii) secondary electrolyte infusion. The thermal conditioning may stabilize charge carrier(s) retention and / or improve electrode-electrolyte interaction (e.g., preheating electrodes to enhance electrolyte infiltration). The pressure application may enhance interfacial adhesion and / or minimize resistance at contact points by compressing active material layers (e.g., applying mechanical pressure to optimize adhesion between the electrode and separator). The secondary electrolyte infusion may promote (e.g., ensure) effective wetting of the active material surfaces and / or facilitate ionic conductivity within the assembled cell (e.g., introducing a controlled volume of electrolyte to hinder (e.g., prevent) dry spots in the electrode matrix).

[0210] In some embodiments, an assembly procedure is executed to hinder (e.g., prevent) integration process disturbances. The assembly procedure may be implemented to hinder (e.g., prevent) (i) mechanical disturbances, (ii) chemical interactions, and / or (iii) electrostatic effects. The mechanical disturbances may induce misalignment or deformation of electrode structures, reducing cell efficiency (e.g., misaligned electrodes causing uneven current distribution). The chemical interactions may alter charge carrier(s) stability and / or lead to unwanted side reactions that degrade electrochemical performance (e.g., reaction of residual buffering electrolyte with performance electrolyte leading to phase separation). The electrostatic effects may cause charge redistribution, leading to localized variations in ion concentration (e.g., static charge accumulation affecting uniform ion transport). The integration process disturbances may result in performance inconsistencies and operational inefficiencies. In some embodiments, parameters for the integration process are maintained within predefined tolerances to promote (e.g., ensure) that the charge carrier(s) distribution achieved during pre-loading is retained throughout the operational lifespan of the target device. The parameters for the integration process may be configured to preserve (i) electrochemical performance and / or (ii) structuralAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOstability under varying operating conditions (e.g., controlled drying conditions to eliminate residual moisture affecting long-term cycling stability).

[0211] In some embodiments, the buffering process is conducted within an enclosure. The enclosure may isolate the internal environment from the ambient environment external to the enclosure. The enclosure may be structured to establish controlled environmental conditions, preventing exposure to atmospheric constituents. The atmospheric constituents may interfere with charge carrier(s) pre-loading and / or alter the electrochemical stability of the electrodes. In an example, the internal environment is maintained within predefined operational parameters. The predefined operational parameters may comprise regulating (i) gas composition (e.g., maintaining an inert environment using argon or nitrogen), (ii) humidity levels (e.g., for controlling moisture content to hinder (e.g., prevent) electrolyte degradation), and / or (iii) temperature (e.g., for sustaining an optimal range for electrolyte viscosity). The predefined operational parameters may directly influence (i) charge carrier(s) diffusion, (ii) electrolyte stability, and / or (iii) interaction with the electrode active material. The enclosure may be structured to create environmental isolation to mitigate external contamination. In an example, environmental isolation ensures that electrolyte composition and / or charge carrier(s) mobility remain unaffected by uncontrolled ambient fluctuations.

[0212] In some embodiments, implementation of an enclosed buffering process is advantageous where reactive charge carriers or chemically sensitive electrode materials are utilized. Isolation from ambient air prevents undesired chemical interactions. The undesired chemical reactions comprise (i) oxidation (e.g., reaction of lithium charge carriers with oxygen forming lithium oxide), (ii) moisture absorption (e.g., leading to electrolyte instability and electrode swelling), and / or (iii) parasitic side reactions (e.g., unintended reactions between charge carriers and atmospheric gases leading to loss of charge capacity). The oxidation may degrade electrochemical performance. The moisture absorption may induce electrolyte instability and / or structural swelling within the electrode matrix. The parasitic side reactions may alter charge retention characteristics. The enclosure may be constructed with material and structural properties configured to hinder (e.g., prevent) gas permeation. In an example, prevention of gas permeation ensures sustained stability of the internal environment for the duration of the buffering process.

[0213] In some embodiments, the enclosure is constructed to enable precise modulation of the internal environment based on the requirements of the buffering process. The environmental control mechanisms include (i) gas purging system such as to maintain an inert atmosphere, (ii) reactive species regulation such as to reduce liquid evaporation and phase transitions, and / orAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO(iii) temperature regulation such as to control electrolyte viscosity and charge carrier mobility. The gas purging system may sustain an inert and / or controlled atmosphere. The inert atmosphere may be inert to degradation of the electrode. The reactive species regulation may reduce electrolyte evaporation or unintended phase transitions. The temperature regulation may enhance charge carrier(s) mobility and / or maintain electrolyte viscosity within the predefined operational range. In some embodiments, the implementation of a controlled enclosure for buffering facilitates (i) process standardization (e.g., ensuring consistent charge carrier saturation across multiple electrodes), (ii) enhanced charge carrier(s) uptake efficiency such as to optimize ion penetration within electrode pores, and / or (iii) mitigation of degradation risks such as preventing structural breakdown due to environmental fluctuations. A control of the enclosure may contribute to improved electrochemical stability and / or extended operational longevity of the integrated electrodes.

[0214] In some embodiments, an alternative buffering process is performed within an enclosure configured to isolate the internal environment from the ambient environment external to the enclosure. The enclosure may comprise (i) a bath, comprising at least one cover, and / or (ii) an enclosure configured to enclose the bath. The internal environment of the enclosure may be maintained with reduced reactive species relative to the ambient environment. The internal environment may comprise an inert atmosphere (e.g., nitrogen and / or argon) to reduce (e.g., prevent) unwanted reactions with the electrode materials. The inert atmosphere may be inert to the materials utilized in the buffering process. The inert atmosphere may be inert to the electrode. In an example, the inert atmosphere comprises a reduced concentration of reactive species (e.g., hydrogen and / or oxygen), relative to their concentration in the ambient environment.

[0215] In some embodiments, the bath is configured to accommodate one or more electrodes simultaneously. The electrodes may be (i) inserted into slots in the bath and / or (ii) held outside the bath and subsequently inserted in the bath. In an example, at least one property of the electrolyte within the bath is controlled to enhance the buffering process. The properties of the electrolyte that may be controlled comprise (i) temperature, (ii) pressure such as promoting (e.g., ensuring) optimal diffusion conditions, (iii) chemical composition such as selecting electrolyte formulations tailored for charge carrier buffering, (iv) electrolyte concentration such as adjusting ion density for uniform charge loading, (v) circulation direction such as unidirectional flow for homogenous conditioning, (vi) circulation speed such as modulating flow rates to balance charge penetration, (vii) applied current such as controlled buffering with electrochemical activation, and / or (viii) any combination thereof. The temperature can beAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOmaintained at about 45°C for about 40 hours for gradual buffering or increasing to about 85°C to reduce buffering time to at most about 6 hours. The circulation of the electrolyte in the bath may be regulated using a control system. Controlling the applied current may dictate the amount of charge carrier(s) interaction with the active material and / or buffer exchange, as appropriate. One or more sensors may be incorporated within the bath to facilitate feedback-based control, optimizing real-time adjustments during buffering. The conditioning temperature in situ within the assembled device containing the electrode (e.g., assembled battery), may be constrained due to the presence of additional components in the assembled device. In an example, separating the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process from the integrate electrodes in the target device (e.g., battery) allows for greater flexibility in selecting the effective buffering system and / or conditions such as temperature. In an example, separating the forming process of the electrodes from the integrates electrodes in the battery, allows for greater flexibility in selecting the effective buffering system.

[0216] In some embodiments, the liquid utilized in the bath is (i) recycled, (ii) purified, and / or (iii) supplemented at a specified time. The specified time may occur before, after, and / or during the buffering process. The recycling of the electrolyte may enable the removal of undesired byproducts. The purification of the electrolyte may sustain its chemical stability such as removing residual organic contaminants. The supplementation of the electrolyte may maintain a controlled ionic concentration such as adding lithium salt solution to replenish charge carriers. In some embodiments, the atmosphere within the enclosure is (i) recycled, (ii) purified, and / or (iii) supplemented at a specified time. The specified time may occur before, after, and / or during the buffering process. The recycling of the atmosphere may remove unwanted reactive species such as extracting oxygen to limit (e.g., prevent) charge carrier oxidation. The purification of the atmosphere may promote (e.g., ensure) a controlled inert environment such as removal of moisture to hinder (e.g., prevent) electrolyte decomposition. The supplementation of the atmosphere may sustain gas composition stability such as introducing argon to maintain an inert enclosure. In an example, the extraction of electrodes from the bath is conducted (i) within the enclosure or (ii) outside of the enclosure, depending on environmental control considerations. The extraction within the enclosure may promote (e.g., ensure) minimal exposure to ambient conditions such as limiting (e.g., preventing) oxidation of lithium-containing electrodes. The extraction outside of the enclosure may be structured to facilitate direct transition into the next processing stage such as electrode drying and / or electrolyte infusion. The extraction outside of the enclosure may or may not be in an atmosphere depleted by the reactive species, e.g., anAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOinert atmosphere to the electrodes. The enclosure and / or the bath may be configured to facilitate removal of the electrodes at the conclusion of the conditioning process.

[0217] In some embodiments, insertion and / or extraction of electrodes from the bath is at least partially automated. The automation may be achieved through robotic means, e.g., robotic arms positioning electrodes in the electrolyte bath. The automation may be executed either (i) within the enclosure or (ii) external to the enclosure. The automation within the enclosure may regulate immersion duration with precision, such as promoting (e.g., ensuring) uniform charge carrier uptake across multiple electrodes. The automation external to the enclosure may enhance throughput efficiency such as enabling high-volume electrode handling for mass production.

[0218] In some embodiments, the methodologies disclosed herein reduce electrolyte contamination within and / or from the target device. The processes disclosed herein may be configured to reduce electrolyte contamination within and / or from packaging such as preventing leakage into external casings. The casings may include a pouch and / or a can. The casings may include a flexible material and / or a rigid material. The process disclosed herein may be configured to reduce electrolyte contamination within and / or from any internal compartment such as a pouch nested within an external housing. The contamination (e.g., an electrolyte leak) may induce (i) corrosion of device components such as chemical degradation of metal contacts, (ii) cosmetic defects of the target device such as visible swelling or discoloration, (iii) harm to an individual handling the target device such as exposure to electrolyte vapours and / or liquid spills, and / or (iv) damage to a facility housing the target device such as contamination of processing environments. The electrode conditioning processes disclosed herein may reduce electrolyte contamination risks, simplify device requirements and / or chemical content, and eliminate the need for a dedicated buffering component within the target device, thereby optimizing manufacturing efficiency and long-term electrochemical performance.

[0219] In some embodiments, the bath comprises a charge carrier source configured to act as an electrode (e.g., a cathode). In an example, the charge carrier source (e.g., lithium reservoir) does not require a precise shape. Multiple electrodes may serve as counter electrodes to facilitate charge carrier buffering. The bath may accommodate multiple electrodes simultaneously, e.g., for parallel buffering. The charge carrier transfer may occur between the charge carrier source and the active material within the bath, optimizing ion diffusion across the electrode interface. The charge carrier source may be used to buffer multiple electrodes simultaneously.

[0220] In some embodiments, the equipment utilized in the electrode conditioning process comprises (i) the bath, (ii) the enclosure, (iii) a recycling system, (iv) a control system such asAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOautomated monitoring of process parameters, (v) an actuator configured for homogenizing the liquid in the bath, (vi) electrical connectivity such as terminals for controlled potential application, (vii) channels or tubing configured for gas flow such as the gas purging system for sustaining an inert environment), (viii) channels or tubing configured for liquid flow (e.g., electrolyte circulation pathways preventing stagnation), and / or (ix) filters configured for recycling operations such as filtration units ensuring contaminant-free electrolyte reuse. The agitation system may be configured for mechanical stirring and / or ultrasonic agitation. The agitation system may be configured for enhanced electrode conditioning such as for enhanced charge carrier diffusion. The integration of these components may enhance charge carrier uptake efficiency while maintaining electrochemical stability throughout the buffering process.

[0221] In some embodiments, the methodologies achieve uniform charge distribution in a reduced time. The charge carrier(s) buffering may be optimized by dynamic flow regulation (e.g., modulating electrolyte movement to sustain charge carrier concentration at the electrode interface). The buffering process disclosed herein may facilitate safer gas release from the electrolyte during operation, preventing unwanted pressure buildup within the enclosed environment. In an example, gas byproducts generated during pre-loading are actively managed by the recycling system to sustain process stability.

[0222] In some embodiments, the electrode conditioning processes enables the selection of electrolytes configured for distinct functions associated with the electrode, e.g., in a battery cell. The electrolyte utilized in the bath for buffering may be different from the electrolyte used within the prescribed utilization of the cell such as a rechargeable battery cell. The buffering electrolyte may be formulated for efficient charge carrier(s) interaction and / or passivation layer formation, e.g., with reduced limitations relating to gas release. The lower sensitivity to gas release may be due at least in part to the open bath in a gas-controlled environment, e.g., comprising a gas pressure conditioning system such as a release valve. Contrasting, the electrolyte used within the battery cell may be optimized for long-term electrochemical cycling in a confined environment, which may be more sensitive to any (e.g., excessive and / or abrupt) gas release. The selection of distinct electrolytes, each optimized to a different function with different gas release characteristics, may allow enhanced pre-loading performance while maintaining stability within the target device architecture of the cells, e.g., a battery.

[0223] In some embodiments, the enclosure utilized for the electrode conditioning process comprises (i) a bath with at least one lid and / or (ii) an enclosure configured to enclose the bath. The bath, when provided with a lid, may be structured to limit exposure of the internal environment to ambient conditions, thereby minimizing contamination from external reactiveAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOspecies, e.g., moisture and / or oxygen. The lid may be configured to provide a sealed and / or semi-sealed environment. In an example, a degree of enclosure is determined based at least in part on the specific conditioning (e.g., buffering) requirements and / or the reactivity of the charge carriers involved. In some embodiments, the enclosure is configured to fully enclose the bath, e.g., thereby establishing a controlled internal atmosphere distinct from the ambient environment external to the enclosure. The enclosure structure may be designed to (i) hinder (e.g., prevent) ingress of reactive species, (ii) regulate internal pressure to maintain stable electrolyte conditions, and / or (iii) facilitate controlled introduction and removal of electrodes without compromising the buffering environment.

[0224] In some embodiments, the enclosure is constructed to accommodate environmental control mechanisms. The environmental control mechanisms comprise (i) gas purging systems, (ii) humidity regulation, (iii) thermal management systems, (iv) pressure control (e.g., preventing pressure fluctuations that could destabilize electrode pre-loading), (v) airflow management, (vi) filtration (e.g., removal of reactive byproducts), and / or (vii) a combination thereof. The environmental control mechanisms may promote (e.g., ensure) that the internal conditions remain precisely controlled for buffering operations.

[0225] In some embodiments, the enclosure configuration is selected based on the sensitivity of the electrode material to ambient contaminants. In an example, reactive charge carrier source (e.g., lithium metal) require atmospheric isolation to hinder (e.g., prevent) unwanted reactions. The enclosure configuration may be selected based at least in part on the requirements for maintaining electrolyte stability. The enclosure configuration may be selected based at least in part on the need for process scalability. An enclosed bath structure may enable conditioning (e.g., buffering) of multiple electrodes under uniform controlled conditions, reducing (e.g., preventing) variations in charge carrier distribution. In some embodiments, the implementation of a sealed bath structure ensures (i) process repeatability, (ii) minimized risk of active material degradation, and / or (iii) enhanced overall electrochemical stability of the buffered electrodes, prior to integration into the target device (e.g., battery) architecture.

[0226] In some embodiments, the internal environment of the enclosure comprises a reduced concentration of reactive species relative to the ambient environment external to the enclosure. The internal environment may be structured to provide an inert environment. The inert environment may comprise (i) nitrogen, (ii) argon, and / or (iii) another gas having a lower concentration of reactive species as compared to the ambient environment external to the enclosure. In an example, the inert environment comprises (i) nitrogen, (ii) argon, and / or (iii) clean dry air. The controlled depleted level of reactive species may mitigate undesirableAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOchemical interactions that may alter (i) charge carrier(s) distribution, (ii) degrade electrode integrity, and / or (iii) induce unwanted side reactions within the electrolyte (e.g., solvent decomposition leading to passivation layer inconsistencies). The depleted level of reactive species may be controlled at least in part by maintaining positive pressure in the enclosure, having the atmosphere depleted in the reactive species as compared to the ambient atmosphere.

[0227] In some embodiments, the inert environment within the enclosure is maintained to (i) reduce (e.g., prevent) oxidation such as of the electrode active material, (ii) reduce (e.g., prevent) moisture absorption that may compromise electrolyte stability, and / or (iii) promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier(s) pre-loading occurs under chemically stable conditions. The concentration of reactive species may be regulated to levels below those present in the ambient atmosphere. The levels of the reactive species may be regulated to sustain electrochemical stability throughout the electrode conditioning process such as buffering. The internal atmosphere may be introduced and maintained using (a) the gas system and / or (b) the control system such as by real-time gas sensors adjusting concentrations dynamically. The gas system may include (i) the gas purging system, and / or (ii) the gas flow mechanisms, e.g., controlling the gas composition through enclosure gas circulation.

[0228] In some embodiments, the selection of the internal gas composition and / or internal gas concentration within the enclosure, is determined based on one or more parameters. The parameters may be based at least in part on (i) the reactivity of the electrode materials such as lithium, silicon-based anodes requiring, (ii) the electrochemical properties of the charge carriers such as ensuring stable solvation in the electrolyte, and / or (iii) the requirements for maintaining electrolyte composition throughout the conditioning (e.g., buffering) process. The implementation of the internal environment within the enclosure may promote (e.g., ensure) maintenance of charge carrier(s) diffusion and / or electrolyte stability, e.g., without interference from uncontrolled environmental factors. The implementation of the internal enclosure environment may improve process reproducibility and / or promote (e.g., ensure) enhanced electrode performance upon integration into the target device architecture.

[0229] In some embodiments, the internal environment within the enclosure comprises a reduced concentration of at least one reactive species relative to its concentration in the ambient environment. The reactive species may comprise (i) hydrogen, (ii) oxygen, and / or (iii) any other chemically reactive gas that may react with the active material, react with the charge carrier source, react with the liquid, or otherwise interfere with the electrode conditioning process. In an example, the reactive species degrade the electrochemical stability of theAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOelectrode. The controlled reduction of reactive species may hinder (e.g., prevent) unwanted chemical interactions and / or chemical byproducts. The chemical interactions may (i) alter the charge carrier(s) distribution within the electrode active material such as uneven lithium plating in lithium-metal anodes, (ii) degrade the electrolyte composition, (iii) induce surface modifications that may compromise charge transfer efficiency, and / or (iv) surface modifications that may induce shorts such as promote dendrite formation such as after assembly of the electrode in the target device architecture such as in a battery.

[0230] In some embodiments, the concentration of the reactive species is reduced through gas displacement using a gas depleted by reactive species such as clean dry air or an inert gas, e.g., nitrogen and / or argon. The concentration of the reactive species may be reduced through controlled evacuation of reactive gas from the enclosure prior to initiating buffering such as vacuum purging before gas refilling. The concentration of the reactive species may be reduced through continuous gas flow regulation to maintain a predefined atmospheric composition, e.g., maintaining at most 10 ppm oxygen and / or water, in a sealed enclosure. The enclosure may comprise monitoring systems to detect and control the concentration of reactive species. The monitoring systems may promote (e.g., ensure) that the external environment exposure levels remain below an electrochemical instability-inducing threshold such as below oxidation potential thresholds for lithium-ion diffusion stability.

[0231] In some embodiments, the reduction in reactive species concentration is selected based pre-defined factors. The pre-defined factors may comprise (i) the reactivity of the charge carriers utilized in the buffering process (e.g., lithium cations requiring oxygen-free conditions), (ii) the sensitivity of the electrode active material to electrochemical interactions, and / or (iii) the chemical stability requirements of the electrolyte such as reducing solvent breakdown at high voltage differentials. The implementation of an internal environment with a controlled reduction in reactive species concentration, increases the likelihood that the electrode conditioning process occurs under chemically stable conditions. In an example, the implementation of an internal environment with a controlled reduction in reactive species concentration (i) enhances process reliability, (ii) improves uptake efficiency of the charge carriers, and / or (iii) preserves the electrochemical integrity of the electrode prior to its integration into the target device architecture.

[0232] In some embodiments, one or more electrodes are disposed in the bath simultaneously to facilitate parallel buffering operations under controlled conditions. The bath may be configured to accommodate multiple electrodes while maintaining uniform charge carrier(s) distribution and / or electrolyte interaction across all electrodes. The simultaneous disposition ofAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOmultiple electrodes may enable increased throughput in the conditioning process such as processing multiple silicon based electrodes in a single batch for pre-lithiation. The increased throughput may promote (e.g., ensure) that each electrode undergoes conditioning (e.g., charge carrier(s) pre-loading) under (e.g., substantially) identical electrochemical conditions such as (i) consistent lithium intercalation levels for uniform performance and / or (ii) consistent buffer exchange.

[0233] In some embodiments, the positioning of electrodes within the bath is controlled to (i) maintain uniform spacing between electrodes, (ii) enhance electrolyte circulation, (iii) enhance charge carrier(s) diffusion, (iv) hinder (e.g., prevent) localized depletion, and / or (v) hinder (e.g., prevent) accumulation of charge carriers within specific regions of the bath. In an example, the structural arrangement of electrodes is configured to (i) allow direct immersion in the electrolyte (e.g., full surface exposure for homogeneous charge loading), (ii) provide mechanical support to hinder (e.g., prevent) movement during buffering, and / or (iii) facilitate controlled insertion and removal without disrupting the electrolyte composition or charge carrier(s) dynamics (e.g., automated electrode placement for precision handling).

[0234] In some embodiments, the number of electrodes disposed in the bath simultaneously is determined based on the capacity of the bath to maintain uniform electrochemical conditions. The number of electrodes simultaneously disposed in the bath may be determined based at least in part on the ability to sustain consistent electrolyte properties (e.g., temperature, concentration, and / or ionic conductivity). The number of electrodes disposed in the bath simultaneously may be determined based on the design parameters of the buffering system. The design parameters may comprise fluid dynamics (e.g., ensuring electrolyte flow does not create stagnant zones) and / or charge carrier(s) replenishment mechanisms (e.g., lithium-ion resupply). The implementation of simultaneous electrode buffering may promote (e.g., ensure) (i) process scalability, (ii) enhanced production efficiency, and / or (iii) maintained uniform electrochemical properties across all buffered electrodes prior to integration into the target device architecture.

[0235] In some embodiments, the electrodes are inserted into slots within the bath to facilitate controlled positioning and stabilization during the conditioning process. The slots may be configured to maintain electrode alignment (e.g., ensuring precise spacing between electrodes). The slots may be configured to promote (e.g., ensure) uniform exposure of the electrode active material to the electrolyte (e.g., preventing shadowing effects that may lead to inconsistent charge carrier(s) uptake). The slots may be configured to hinder (e.g., prevent) unintended movement or displacement that may alter charge carrier(s) distribution. In an example, the slotAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOconfiguration is designed to enhance electrolyte contact with the electrode surfaces. An enhanced contact with the electrode surface may promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier(s) diffusion and buffering efficiency remain consistent across all electrodes such as minimizing localized depletion zones. In some embodiments, the electrodes are sufficiently rigid such that the slots are not required, e.g., and are absent from the conditioning system.

[0236] In some embodiments, the slots are structured to accommodate electrodes of varying sizes and geometries. The slot dimensions may be configured based on (i) the thickness and surface area of the electrode, (ii) the required immersion depth within the electrolyte (e.g., ensuring complete submersion for uniform charge loading), (iii) the requirement for electrical connectivity during the conditioning process, and / or (iv) the requirement for controlled current application during the conditioning process (e.g., maintaining charge uniformity across electrode surfaces). The slots may be constructed from materials that are chemically inert to the electrolyte and charge carriers (e.g., fluoropolymer coatings or ceramic linings) to hinder (e.g., prevent) contamination or unwanted side reactions during the conditioning process.

[0237] In some embodiments, the use of slots for electrode insertion enhances process uniformity by ensuring (i) consistent spatial distribution of electrodes within the bath, (ii) controlled electrolyte flow around each electrode (e.g., preventing stagnant electrolyte regions), and / or (iii) minimized risk of inter- el ectrode interference that may disrupt charge carrier(s) loading. In an example, the slot configuration is automated for insertion and / or extraction of the electrodes (e.g., robotic handling to promote (e.g., ensure) precision). The automation may enable integration with high-throughput manufacturing systems. The automation may maintain the electrochemical integrity of the buffered electrodes prior to their incorporation into the target device architecture.

[0238] In some embodiments, the electrodes are held outside of the bath prior to insertion into the electrolyte. The insertion may be conducted in a controlled manner to regulate the exposure of the electrode active material to the charge carrier-rich environment (e.g., ensuring gradual saturation without sudden concentration gradients). The electrode insertion process may be executed to promote (e.g., ensure) uniform electrolyte contact and / or minimize disturbances to the bath composition (e.g., preventing turbulence that may disrupt charge carrier(s) diffusion).

[0239] In some embodiments, the electrodes are supported by a mechanical holding structure (e.g., a guided track system). The mechanical holding structure may be configured to (i) position the electrodes in alignment with the bath structure (e.g., ensuring precise placement for immersion), (ii) hinder (e.g., prevent) unintended contamination (e.g., exposure to reactive species before immersion), (iii) hinder (e.g., prevent) premature charge carrier(s) interactionAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WObefore immersion (e.g., reducing uncontrolled surface reactions), (iv) allow precise control over the rate of electrode insertion (e.g., gradual submersion to hinder (e.g., prevent) abrupt electrochemical shifts), and / or (v) allow precise control over the timing of electrode insertion to enhance charge carrier(s) uptake (e.g., optimizing diffusion dynamics based on bath conditions). The mechanical holding structure may facilitate (i) gradual insertion of the electrodes into the bath to hinder (e.g., prevent) abrupt electrochemical changes, (ii) precise positioning to maintain uniform charge carrier(s) diffusion across all electrode surfaces, and / or (iii) integration with automated systems for high-throughput processing (e.g., robotic actuators for precise electrode handling). The mechanical holding structure may comprise clamps, guided tracks, and / or robotic actuators. The mechanical holding structure may be configured to promote (e.g., ensure) repeatable and / or controlled electrode handling during buffering.

[0240] In some embodiments, the controlled insertion of electrodes into the bath allows for (i) staged buffering operations (e.g., sequential immersion to optimize charge loading), (ii) dynamic control over electrolyte exposure time (e.g., adjusting immersion duration based on charge carrier(s) diffusion rate), and / or (iii) minimization of disturbances (e.g., preventing surface turbulence that may disrupt buffering conditions). The staged buffering operations may facilitate different sets of electrodes to be sequentially introduced to enhance process efficiency. The dynamic control over electrolyte exposure time may promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carrier(s) saturation is achieved under predefined conditions (e.g., preventing overloading and / or underloading). The minimization of electrostatic and / or mechanical disturbances may hinder (e.g., prevent) unintended alterations in charge distribution within the electrode active material. The implementation of controlled electrode insertion may (i) enhance process consistency, (ii) reduce variability in charge carrier(s) uptake, and / or (iii) preserve the electrochemical stability of the buffered electrodes prior to their integration into the target device architecture.

[0241] In some embodiments, one or more control parameters of the electrolyte medium are controlled to enhance the conditioning process. The control parameters may comprise (i) temperature (e.g., maintaining electrolyte stability), (ii) pressure (e.g., sustaining electrolyte saturation), (iii) chemical composition (e.g., adjusting ionic concentration), (iv) electrolyte concentration (e.g., optimizing charge carrier(s) availability), (v) circulation direction (e.g., ensuring uniform distribution), (vi) circulation speed (e.g., preventing stratification), (vii) applied current (e.g., regulating charge carrier(s) diffusion), and / or (viii) any combination thereof. The electrolyte circulation within the bath may be regulated using a control system (e.g., real-time electrolyte monitoring). The control system may facilitate adjusting the control parameters to sustain uniform charge carrier(s) distribution. The control system may facilitate adjusting theAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOcontrol parameters to maintain stable electrochemical conditions (e.g., preventing electrolyte degradation). The regulation of the control parameters may hinder (e.g., prevent) localized variations in charge carrier(s) distribution, ensuring consistent buffering across all electrodes. The electrolyte properties may be continuously monitored to sustain effective ion transport dynamics, thereby enhancing charge carrier(s) penetration and / or retention within the electrode active material.

[0242] In some embodiments, electrolyte circulation is dynamically adjusted to sustain homogeneity within the bath. The circulation control may mitigate the formation of charge carrier(s) depletion zones (e.g., preventing insufficient charge loading). The circulation control may hinder (e.g., prevent) excessive accumulation of charge carriers in specific regions of the bath, thereby preserving a uniform charge transfer environment. The control parameters may be determined based on (i) electrode configuration (e.g., stacked or planar arrangement), (ii) electrolyte viscosity (e.g., fluidity affecting charge mobility), and / or (iii) process-specific buffering duration requirements (e.g., immersion time for complete saturation). In an example, variability in circulation speed and / or direction is controlled to promote (e.g., ensure) that charge carriers remain evenly dispersed throughout the electrolyte, preventing stratification that may compromise electrochemical uniformity.

[0243] In some embodiments, an electrolyte control system is implemented to regulate and / or maintain process conditions within predefined operational thresholds. In an example, the electrolyte control system is operatively coupled to the electrolyte reservoir. The control system may comprise sensors configured to detect variations in electrolyte parameters (e.g., ionic concentration monitoring). The control system may comprise actuators for adjusting flow rates, pressure, and / or circulation dynamics (e.g., modulating electrolyte movement). The control system may comprise a feedback-based monitoring system that dynamically adjusts electrolyte properties in response to real-time data (e.g., compensating for concentration fluctuations). The control system may comprise a programmable controller that integrates multiple process parameters to promote (e.g., ensure) effective performance. The control system may be configured to enable automation of electrolyte regulation (e.g., auto-adjusting electrolyte levels). The automation of electrolyte regulation may facilitate adjustments to temperature, concentration, and / or charge carrier(s) density. In an example, the adjustments are executed in response to sensor-detected fluctuations (e.g., maintaining electrolyte consistency across cycles). The integration of automated control mechanisms may (i) eliminate variability introduced by manual intervention, (ii) enhance process repeatability, and / or (iii) promote (e.g., ensure) that buffering conditions remain consistent across multiple processing cycles.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO

[0244] In some embodiments, the electrolyte control system is designed to interface with external process management systems. The interfacing with the external process management systems may, allow remote monitoring and / or adjustment of the buffering conditions (e.g., centralized data logging for quality control). The electrolyte control system may be configured to (i) log process parameters for quality assurance, (ii) generate alerts in response to deviations from predefined conditions (e.g., electrolyte depletion warnings), and / or (iii) synchronize with electrode handling mechanisms to enhance electrolyte exposure time (e.g., timed immersion cycles). The implementation of a controlled electrolyte environment may contribute to (i) enhanced process reliability, (ii) improved charge transfer kinetics, and / or (iii) enhanced electrochemical performance of the buffered electrodes prior to integration into the target device architecture.

[0245] In some embodiments, controlling the applied current regulates the amount of charge carrier(s) interaction with the electrode active material. The regulation may ensure precise charge carrier(s) uptake during the conditioning process. The applied current may influence (i) the rate of charge carrier(s) migration within the electrolyte (e.g., facilitating uniform diffusion), (ii) the extent of charge carrier(s) diffusion into the electrode active material (e.g., optimizing ion penetration), and / or (iii) the formation of any electrochemical surface modifications (e.g., passivation layers) that may result from charge carrier(s) accumulation. In an example, the magnitude and / or duration of the applied current is adjusted based on electrode composition (e.g., graphite versus lithium metal). In an example, the magnitude and / or duration of the applied current is adjusted based on buffering requirements to enhance charge carrier(s) loading without inducing unwanted electrochemical side reactions (e.g., lithium plating or sideproduct formation).

[0246] In some embodiments, current regulation is integrated into the electrolyte circulation mechanism. The integration may facilitate real-time adjustments to current density in response to detected variations in (i) charge carrier(s) concentration (e.g., preventing depletion-induced performance drop), (ii) electrode potential (e.g., maintaining optimal voltage range), and / or (iii) electrolyte composition (e.g., preserving ionic conductivity). The current density may be configured to hinder (e.g., prevent) overloading of charge carriers in localized regions, which may lead to non-uniform buffering (e.g., uneven charge saturation across the electrode). The current density may be configured to hinder (e.g., prevent) excessive charge carrier(s) depletion that may reduce bu...

Claims

Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOCLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A device for electrode buffering, the device comprising:a bath configured to accommodate (a) electrodes comprising an active material, (b) a liquid comprising an electrolyte, and (c) a charge carrier source;an agitator configured to agitate the liquid to distribute charge carriers in the liquid surrounding the active material of each of the electrodes; andelectrical connections configured to operatively couple with an electrical power source, with the electrodes, and with the charge carrier source, to electrically couple the charge carrier source with the electrodes and with the electrical power source to generate the charge carriers from the charge carrier source during operation of the device.

2. A device for conditioning of electrodes, the device comprising: a bath configured to accommodate electrodes comprising an active material and a liquid configured for the conditioning; and an agitator configured to agitate the liquid to distribute the liquid surrounding the active material of each of the electrodes, the conditioning preparing the electrodes for assembly as part of a target device configure for electrical storage and / or electrical release.

3. The device of claim 2, wherein the conditioning comprises (a) loading the active material with charge carriers and / or (b) forming a passivation layer on the active material, the bath being configured to accommodate at least one charge carrier source, the device further comprising electrical connections configured to operatively couple with an electrical power source, with the electrodes and with the at least one charge carrier source, to electrically couple the at least one charge carrier source with the electrodes and with the electrical power source, to generate the charge carriers from the at least one charge carrier source during operation of the device; and optionally wherein the liquid comprises an electrolytic mixture.

4. The device of claim 3, wherein the device is configured to operatively couple with, or include, an electrode holder configured to connect with the electrodes; optionally wherein the electrode holder is configured to physically and electrically connect with the electrodes; optionally wherein the electrode holder comprises a busbar; optionally wherein the electrode holder is different from a busbar; optionally wherein the electrodes are destined for integration into a target device, and the electrode holder is destined to be excluded from the target device; optionally wherein the electrodes each comprise a tab at a distal end of the electrode, the tab being devoid of an active material; optionally wherein the electrodes are each integrated with sacrificial portions as a strip; optionally wherein the sacrificial portions are configured (a) forAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOutilization in aligning the electrodes in a cell assembly of the target device, (b) to be separated from the electrode prior to integration of the electrodes in the target device, (c) for coupling with the holder, or (d) any combination of (a), (b), (c), and (d); optionally wherein separation from the electrode is at least in part using at least one tear line; and optionally wherein the tear line comprise a broken line.

5. The device of claim 2, wherein the liquid is a first liquid, and wherein the conditioning comprises exchanging the first liquid with a second liquid; optionally wherein (I) the first liquid comprises a first electrolytic mixture and the second liquid comprises a second electrolytic mixture; (II) the first liquid comprises an electrolytic mixture and the second liquid comprises a cleaning solution, and / or (III) the first liquid is optimized for electrode formation, and the second liquid is optimized for electrode operation in a target device; optionally wherein the target device is a battery; and optionally wherein the battery is a secondary battery.

6. The device of claim 2, wherein an electrode of the electrodes has a largest face type having the largest surface area, the face type being rectangular having a height normal to a width; optionally wherein an aspect ratio of a first FLS of the largest face type to a second FLS of the largest face type, is at least about 2:1 ; optionally wherein the first FLS is the width and the second FLS is the height; optionally wherein the electrodes of the device comprise at least 20 electrodes; optionally wherein the electrodes of the device comprise at least 20 electrodes, 40 electrodes, 50 electrodes, 100 electrodes, 150 electrodes, 200 electrodes, or 250 electrodes; optionally wherein the electrodes are of the same polarity; and optionally wherein the electrodes of opposing polarities.

7. The device of claim 2, wherein (I) the bath is configured for disposition in an enclosure, or (II) the bath is configured to engage with a lid to form the enclosure, the enclosure being configured maintain in its interior an atmosphere different from an ambient atmosphere external to the enclosure; optionally wherein at least a portion of the electrical connections are external to the enclosure; optionally wherein the electrical connections are internal to the enclosure; optionally wherein an internal atmosphere is depleted by one or more reactive species configured to react, during operation of the device, with the active material, a charge carrier source disposed in the enclosure, charge carriers disposed in the bath, other conditioning agents disposed in the bath, or any combination thereof; and optionally wherein the one or more reactive species include oxygen and / or water.

8. The device of claim 7, wherein an internal atmosphere is purged relative to an internal environment of the enclosure, and / or the internal atmosphere is held at an overpressure in the internal environment of the enclosure.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO9. The device of claim 7, wherein during operation of the device, the internal atmosphere is held in an internal environment of the enclosure an ambient pressure and / or at ambient temperature, the ambient pressure and the ambient temperature being of an external environment to the enclosure.

10. The device of claim 7, wherein during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath an ambient temperature of an external environment to the enclosure.

11. The device of claim 7, wherein during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath at a temperature above an ambient temperature of an external environment to the enclosure.

12. The device of claim 7, wherein during operation of the device, the liquid is held in the bath a temperature higher than is allowed for normal operation of the target device.

13. The device of claim 7, wherein the enclosure is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the enclosure, the fluids including at least one material in a gas phase and / or material in a liquid phase; and optionally wherein the fluid circulation system comprises, or is operatively coupled with, a recycling system, a mixing system, a control system, a supplementing system, a filtration system, or any combination thereof; and optionally wherein the fluid circulation system is separate for the at least one material in the gas phase and for the at least one material in the liquid phase.

14. The device of claim 2, wherein the bath is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the bath, the fluids including at least one material in a liquid phase; and optionally wherein the fluid circulation system comprises, or is operatively coupled with, a recycling system, a mixing system, a control system, a supplementing system, a filtration system, or any combination thereof.

15. The device of claim 2, wherein the bath is equipped with a fluid circulation system configured to circulate fluids relative to the bath, the fluids including at least one material in a liquid phase.

16. The device of claim 2, wherein a bath configured to accommodate the electrodes arranged in an arrangement based at least in part on (a) the agitation, (b) flow of the liquid into the bath, (c) flow of the liquid out of the bath, or (d) any combination thereof; and optionally wherein the arrangement is based at least in part on a temperature and / or pressure of the liquid in the bath.

17. The device of claim 2, wherein a bath configured to accommodate the electrodes arranged in an arrangement based at least in part on a physics simulation; and optionally wherein the physics simulation comprises fluid mechanics, shape of the electrodes, makeup of the active material, number of electrodes to the bath during an operation cycle, aspect ratio of the electrodes, or any combination thereof.Attorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WO18. The device of claim 2, wherein the liquid comprises conditioning agents, the bath being configured to accommodate the electrodes such that they are arranged in an arrangement configured to distribute the conditioning agents homogenously among the electrodes in the bath.

19. The device of claim 2, wherein the device is configured to operatively couple with, or comprise, a temperature conditioning system; and optionally wherein the temperature conditioning system is configured to condition a temperature of the liquid in the bath during operation of the device.

20. The device of claim 2, wherein the electrodes are cathodes or anodes; optionally wherein the anodes comprise silicon; optionally wherein the cathodes comprise cobalt; and optionally wherein the liquid comprises charge carriers including lithium.

21. A method comprising: (a) providing the device of any of claims 2 to 20; and (b) using the device for conditioning of the electrodes.

22. The method of claim 21 , wherein the conditioning comprises one or more conditioning types; and optionally wherein the one or more conditioning types comprise buffering, liquid exchange, and / or cleaning.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein following the conditioning, assembling the electrodes a target device.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising manufacturing, testing, storing, transporting, and / or using the target device for electricity conductance.

25. An apparatus for using the device of any of claims 2 to 20, the apparatus comprises: at least one controller configured for (a) operatively couple with at least one component and with the device; and (b) executing, or directing the at least one component to execute, one or more operations associated with conditioning of the device; optionally wherein the at least one component comprises at least one sensor; and optionally wherein the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple with a power source and / or with a communication platform.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least one controller is operatively coupled with at least one sensor configured to sense one or more attributes of the conditioning of the electrodes.

27. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least one controller is configured to direct placement of the electrodes in the bath such that their conditioning is homogenous.

28. One or more non-transitory computer readable media comprising program instruction physically inscribed thereon, the program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to (I) execute, or direct execution of, one or more operations associated with useAttorney Docket No. ENX-0161.WOof the device of any of claims 2 to 20, (II) the one or more operations comprising directing at least one component to execute the one or more operations, the one or more processors being configured to operatively couple with the at least one component, or (III) a combination of (I) and (II); and optionally wherein one or more of the at least one component is of the device.

29. A method of fabricating the device of any of claims 2 to 20, the method comprising: executing one or more operations to fabricate the device; and optionally wherein fabrication of the device comprises manufacturing.

30. An apparatus for fabricating the device of any of claims 2 to 20, the apparatus comprising: at least one controller configured for (a) operatively coupling with at least one component; and (b) executing, or directing the at least one component to execute, one or more operations associated with fabrication of the device; and optionally wherein the at least one controller is configured to operatively couple with a power source and / or with a communication platform.

31. One or more non-transitory computer readable media comprising program instruction physically inscribed thereon, the program instructions, when read by one or more processors, are configured to (I) execute, or direct execution of, one or more operations associated with fabrication of the device of any of claims 2 to 20, (II) the one or more operations comprising directing at least one component to execute the one or more operations, the one or more processors being configured to operatively couple with the at least one component, or (III) a combination of (I) and (II).

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