Electrochemical Cell With Liquid Electrodes
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional rechargeable electrochemical cells with solid anodes and cathodes are difficult to assemble, limited in size and form factor, and prone to mechanical fragility, making them costly and inefficient for large-scale energy generation.
Innovation Solution
The use of electrochemically active fluids as electrodes, which can be flowed into pre-assembled compartments, providing electronic conductivity and charge storage capabilities, allowing for scalable and durable energy generation devices with flexible form factors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If solid anodes and cathodes are used in traditional rechargeable electrochemical cells, then the cells can store electrochemical energy, but the assembly process becomes difficult and requires costly precision equipment
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the electrode from solid to liquid, fundamentally altering the manufacturing approach. Liquid electrodes can be directly poured or injected into pre-assembled cells, eliminating complex solid-state assembly steps like coating, drying, compressing, and cutting, thereby simplifying manufacturing while maintaining energy storage functionality
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of assembling solid electrodes through multiple complex steps, the patent inverts the approach by using liquid electrodes that can be easily introduced into pre-prepared cell structures, reversing the traditional manufacturing sequence and reducing complexity
2Reliability
If solid anodes and cathodes are used in traditional rechargeable electrochemical cells, then the cells can store electrochemical energy, but the cells become limited in size and form factor
Solution Approach 1:
Changing the electrode from solid to liquid state enables the electrode to conform to any container shape and size, allowing electrochemical cells to be manufactured in various forms factors and scales without the geometric constraints that limit solid electrode designs
Solution Approach 2:
Liquid electrodes provide universal adaptability across different cell sizes and configurations, enabling the same electrode material to be used in various form factors from small portable devices to large stationary energy storage systems
3Reliability
If solid anodes and cathodes are used in traditional rechargeable electrochemical cells, then the cells can store electrochemical energy, but the cells become fragile during use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the mechanical properties of the electrode by transitioning from solid to liquid state, eliminating the brittleness and fragility inherent in solid electrodes. Liquid electrodes are inherently more resistant to mechanical stress, vibration, and physical degradation during operation
Solution Approach 2:
The liquid electrode approach creates a more durable, replaceable system where the liquid electrode can be easily replenished if depleted, rather than dealing with fragile solid electrodes that may crack or degrade mechanically
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
This approach simplifies the assembly process, enhances durability, and allows for the creation of large-scale, flexible energy storage devices that are resistant to mechanical stress and degradation, improving the efficiency and lifespan of electrochemical energy generation.
Implementation Method 1
A difference in electrochemical potential produces a voltage difference between the positive and negative electrodes, which can be used to produce an electric current if the electrodes are connected by a conductive element
Implementation Method 2
In rechargeable batteries, the electrode active materials generally need to be able to accept and provide ions
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3A~3B
AI summary
The present invention is related to electrochemical energy generation devices including at least one electrode comprising an electrochemically active fluid that is enclosed within the cell, as well as related articles, systems, and methods. In some embodiments, the anode and/or cathode of the electrochemical energy generation devices described herein can be formed of an electrochemically active fluid, such as a semi- solid or a redox active ion- storing liquid. The electrochemical energy generation device can be configured such that the anode and/or cathode can be flowed into their respective electrode compartments, for example, during assembly. During operation, on the other hand, little or none of the electrochemically active fluid(s) are transported into or out of the energy generation device (e.g., out of the electrode compartments of the electrochemical energy generation device).