Graphene Emissivity Control via Ion Intercalation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies lack the ability to effectively control infrared emissivity of surfaces, which is crucial for managing heat emission and has applications in wearable technologies and thermal camouflage.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising graphene layers with intercalated ions and a fibre substrate, where the emissivity can be controlled by varying the electrical potential applied between a conductor and the graphene layers, allowing for high or low infrared emissivity states.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If graphene layers are used to control infrared emissivity, then the ability to control heat emission is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The fibre substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical support, acts as an electrical separator, and functions as an ionic medium for ion transport. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate components, thereby controlling device complexity while maintaining the ability to control infrared emissivity through graphene layer ion intercalation
Solution Approach 2:
The ionic liquid intercalated between graphene layers acts as an intermediary that enables voltage-controlled modulation of infrared emissivity. The ionic liquid facilitates the transition between high and low emissivity states by mediating the electrical potential's effect on graphene's optical properties
2Adaptability or versatility
If ions are intercalated into graphene layers to suppress emissivity, then the infrared emissivity control is improved, but the energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system operates by applying electrical potential in periodic cycles to intercalate ions into graphene layers for emissivity suppression, and removing the potential to de-intercalate ions for emissivity restoration. This periodic action enables dynamic thermal management while allowing energy recovery during the de-intercalation phase
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the physical and chemical state of the ionic liquid within the graphene structure by applying electrical potential. The ionic liquid transitions from a non-intercalated state to an intercalated state, fundamentally altering the graphene's optical properties and enabling reversible emissivity control
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
Enables real-time electrical control of infrared radiation emission, allowing for adaptive thermal management and camouflage by modulating the emissivity of the surface, suitable for various textile materials and applications.
Implementation Method 1
When a sufficient voltage difference is applied (>2.5 V), the intercalation of the ions from the ionic liquid into the graphene layers enhances the optical conductivity of the graphene and suppresses the emissivity
Implementation Method 2
the emissivity of the first surface of the active layer can be varied by varying the electrical potential that is applied between the conductive layer and the active layer
Implementation Method 3
a substrate that comprises fibres and, absorbed into the fibres of the substrate, an ionic liquid or liquid electrolyte
Data Source
AI summary
This invention relates to devices integrally comprising fibres that have emissivities, particularly of infrared radiation, that can be controllably varied. The active emissive surface comprises graphene layers with intercalated ions.