Heated Ionic-Liquid Supercapacitor Assembly for High-Voltage Operation
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Solution Overview
Problem
The performance of supercapacitors employing ionic liquid electrolytes is impaired due to high viscosity, leading to increased resistance and reduced charge-bearing capacity, especially when operating at voltages greater than 3.5V.
Innovation Solution
A supercapacitor assembly comprising carbon-containing anodes and cathodes with a porous membrane and an ionic liquid electrolyte, where an electrical heater maintains the electrolyte temperature within an optimal viscosity range of 1 to 50 centipoise, ensuring efficient operation at higher voltages.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Temperature
If ionic liquid electrolyte is used in supercapacitor, then operating voltage can be increased above 3.5V, but viscosity becomes too high causing increased resistance and reduced charge-bearing capacity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state parameters of the ionic liquid electrolyte by controlling temperature and viscosity within specific ranges. The thermostat maintains temperature such that viscosity stays between 1-50 centipoise, optimizing both voltage capability and resistance characteristics.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts the temperature of the ionic liquid electrolyte using an electric heater controlled by a thermostat. This dynamic control allows the viscosity to be maintained within the optimal range during operation, adapting to changing conditions while preserving high voltage capability.
2Temperature
If ionic liquid electrolyte is used in supercapacitor, then operating voltage can be increased above 3.5V, but charge-bearing capacity diminishes due to high viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent optimizes the charge-bearing capacity by controlling the viscosity parameter of the ionic liquid electrolyte through temperature management. By maintaining viscosity between 1-50 centipoise, the system ensures sufficient ion mobility and charge storage capability while operating at elevated voltages.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic temperature control system adjusts the electrolyte viscosity during operation to maintain optimal charge-bearing capacity. The thermostat and heater combination ensures that viscosity remains within the range that supports both high voltage operation and adequate charge storage.
3Temperature
If ionic liquid electrolyte is used in supercapacitor, then operating voltage can be increased above 3.5V, but resistance increases due to high viscosity
Solution Approach 1:
The patent reduces energy loss from resistance by controlling the viscosity parameter of the ionic liquid electrolyte. By maintaining temperature such that viscosity stays between 1-50 centipoise, the system minimizes resistive losses while preserving the ability to operate at high voltages above 3.5V.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic temperature control system continuously adjusts the electrolyte viscosity to minimize resistance during high voltage operation. The thermostat-monitored heating ensures viscosity remains in the optimal range, reducing energy dissipation while maintaining voltage capability.
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 solution enables supercapacitors to maintain performance and charge-bearing capacity over multiple cycles, allowing operation at voltages up to 6V without significant degradation, with improved capacitance and low equivalent series resistance.
Implementation Method 1
an electrical heater for heating the supercapacitor cell
Implementation Method 2
a thermostat for controlling the heater and maintaining the temperature of the ionic liquid
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention provides a supercapacitor assembly which is characterised by comprising: a supercapacitor comprised of carbon-containing anode(s) and cathode(s), intermediate porous membrane(s) and an ionic liquid electrolyte; an electrical heater for heating the supercapacitor; and a thermostat for controlling the heater and maintaining the temperature of the ionic liquid at a temperature such that its viscosity is in the range 1 to 50 centipoise. In particular, there are provided supercapacitors which can operate at voltages greater than 3.5v (for example, in the range 3.5 to 6v) without significant long term redox degradation.