Heated Airtight ATR-FTIR Cell for Battery Electrode Analysis
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing ATR-FTIR spectroscopic cells lack the capability for precise temperature control and are limited in their ability to investigate a wide range of electrode materials, particularly those relevant to battery applications, while being cost-effective and airtight.
Innovation Solution
A cell design incorporating a heating sleeve with an electric heating element for temperature control, allowing for uniform temperature adjustment and investigation of various electrode materials, including battery-relevant electrodes, with a 3D printable structure for adaptability and reduced costs.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If a conventional ATR-FTIR spectroscopic cell is used, then the cell structure is simple and cost-effective, but the cell lacks the capability for precise temperature control
Solution Approach 1:
The heating sleeve is nested within the cell structure, specifically positioned around the receiving space for the electrode assembly. This nested configuration allows the heating element to be integrated into the cell without significantly increasing external dimensions or overall complexity, while providing the required temperature control functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The heating sleeve serves multiple functions: it provides thermal heating through the electric heating element, acts as a structural component of the cell, and enables temperature control for investigating various electrode materials. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate dedicated heating apparatus, thereby limiting the increase in device complexity
2Adaptability or versatility
If the cell is designed to accommodate various electrode materials, then the adaptability is improved, but the cell design becomes more complex and costly
Solution Approach 1:
The cell is designed with a modular receiving space that can accommodate different electrode assemblies. The working electrode current collector, counter-electrode current collector, and electrode assembly are segmented components that can be independently configured and replaced based on the specific electrode materials being investigated, allowing versatility without requiring complete cell redesign
Solution Approach 2:
The cell structure is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate various electrode materials including battery-relevant electrodes, solid electrolytes, polymer electrolytes, and liquid electrolytes. The standardized receiving space and current collector design allow different electrode configurations to be used within the same cell, achieving high adaptability without proportionally increasing complexity
3Temperature
If heating elements are integrated into the cell, then temperature control accuracy is improved, but the device cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The electric heating element integrated into the heating sleeve is designed as a cost-effective, replaceable component. Rather than using expensive precision temperature control systems, a simpler heating element is used that can be easily replaced if needed, reducing the overall manufacturing cost while maintaining adequate temperature control accuracy for the application
Solution Approach 2:
The heating element is merged with the heating sleeve structure to form an integrated temperature control unit. This combination eliminates the need for separate heating apparatus and reduces the overall system cost, while the direct thermal contact between the heating element and the receiving space ensures adequate temperature control accuracy
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 cost-effective, reliable, and accurate temperature control of electrodes and electrolytes, expanding the cell's applicability and allowing investigation under varying temperature conditions, including battery-relevant electrodes, with simultaneous electrolyte interface study and compatibility with diverse electrolyte types.
Implementation Method 1
a heating sleeve (8) having an electric heating element (13) that contacts at least a partial surface area of the first counter-electrode current collector (11) in a thermally conductive connection
Implementation Method 2
the first counter-electrode current collector (11) mechanically and electrically contacts a second counter-electrode current collector (18) via a spring element (16)
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
An airtight cell for ATR-FTIR spectroscopic investigation of electrochemical electrode and electrolyte processes, wherein the cell (100) comprises, from a lower support surface to an FTIR spectrometer up to an upper termination of the cell (100): a working electrode current collector (4) configured for electrical contacting a working electrode (3); a receiving chamber suitable for receiving an electrode assembly comprising a working electrode (3), an electrolyte (6), and a counter electrode (7); and, above the receiving chamber, a first counter electrode current collector (11) configured for electrical contacting the counter electrode (7) of the electrode assembly. The first counter electrode current collector (11) contacts a second counter electrode current collector (18) mechanically and electrically via a spring element (16).A heating sleeve (8) having an electrical heating element (13) contacts at least a partial surface area of the first counter electrode current collector (11) in a thermally conductive connection.