Double-Cell Metal-Aqueous Battery Layout for Higher Current Output
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional metal-aqueous batteries have limited current generation due to their single cell configuration, which restricts the obtainable current and does not effectively prevent anode passivation.
Innovation Solution
A double cell configuration is introduced, where a current collector is interposed between a pair of single cells, each comprising an anode, a cathode, and a separator. A cathode spacer forms a gap between the separator and the cathode, enhancing electrolyte flow and preventing anode passivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a single cell configuration is used, then the device complexity is low, but the current generation amount is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The battery system is divided into multiple single cells (first single cell and second single cell) that are connected in parallel through a current collector. Each single cell functions as an independent electrochemical unit with its own anode, cathode, and electrolyte, allowing simultaneous current generation from multiple cells to increase total current output while maintaining manageable individual cell complexity
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple single cells are combined in parallel configuration sharing a common current collector and electrolyte system. The current collector integrates the electrical output from multiple cells, while the shared electrolyte reservoir reduces overall system complexity compared to completely separate cell designs, achieving increased current generation with controlled complexity
2Reliability
If a conventional single cell configuration is used, then the structure is simple, but the anode passivation cannot be prevented
Solution Approach 1:
A cathode spacer is introduced to create a three-dimensional gap between the cathode and separator, transforming the traditional two-dimensional flat electrode arrangement into a structured configuration with vertical spacing. This dimensional change enables electrolyte circulation paths that prevent anode passivation by facilitating continuous ion transport and reactant supply
Solution Approach 2:
The cathode spacer acts as an intermediary component between the cathode and separator, physically maintaining a gap that allows electrolyte flow. This intermediary structure enables the electrolyte to circulate and reach the anode surface, preventing passivation without requiring complex active control systems or additional moving parts
3Reliability
If no cathode spacer is used, then the device complexity is low, but the electrolyte flow is insufficient causing anode passivation
Solution Approach 1:
The cathode spacer structure itself generates the necessary electrolyte flow paths through its geometric configuration. The gap created by the spacer enables natural convection and diffusion of electrolyte from the reservoir to the electrode surfaces, allowing the system to maintain reliable electrolyte circulation through passive structural design rather than active pumping mechanisms
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The double cell configuration significantly improves current generation amount and rate, while preventing anode passivation, thereby enhancing the overall performance of the metal-aqueous battery.
Implementation Method 1
a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode
Implementation Method 2
a cathode spacer interposed between the separator and the cathode and configured to form a gap between the separator and the cathode
Implementation Method 3
a metal-aqueous battery... each of the single cells comprising: an anode, and a cathode
Data Source
AI summary
Provided are a metal-aqueous battery and a hydrogen generation and carbon dioxide storage system including the same. The metal-aqueous battery may include a double cell. The double cell may include a pair of single cells. Each of the single cells include an anode, a cathode, a separator interposed between the anode and the cathode, and a cathode spacer interposed between the separator and the cathode and configured to form a gap between the separator and the cathode. The double cell may also include a current collector interposed between the pair of single cells such that cathodes of the single cells face each other across the current collector.