Zn Anode Additives Suppress ZnO Shape Change

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Solution Overview

Problem

Zn-based active materials for alkaline storage batteries exhibit low cycle properties due to shape changes caused by localization of ZnO dissolution/deposition sites, which affects the availability and efficiency of the active material.

Innovation Solution

Incorporating additives such as Mg, Sr, and La into the anode active material layer, with a solubility of 120 mg/L or less in a potassium hydrate aqueous solution, at a ratio of 1-60 weight % with respect to the Zn-based active material, to suppress the localization of ZnO dissolution/deposition sites and improve cycle properties.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If Zn based active material is used in alkaline storage battery, then cost and environmental friendliness are improved, but cycle property deteriorates

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecycle propertyVSAvoidshape change of ZnO
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSObject-generated harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a specific additive (Mg, Sr, or La compound) as an intermediary substance that mediates between the Zn-based active material and the electrolyte. This additive prevents the harmful localization of ZnO dissolution/deposition sites by forming a protective interface layer, thereby eliminating shape changes while maintaining the environmental and cost advantages of Zn-based materials

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent changes the chemical composition parameters of the anode active material layer by incorporating specific amounts (1-60 wt%) of Mg, Sr, or La compounds with controlled solubility (120 mg/L or less in 6M KOH). This parameter change modifies the electrochemical behavior to prevent ZnO shape changes while improving cycle stability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If additive with low solubility is used, then cycle stability is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvecycle stabilityVSAvoidadditive ratio control
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSManufacturing precision

Solution Approach 1:

The patent establishes specific parameter ranges for the additive (1-60 wt% ratio, 120 mg/L or less solubility in 6M KOH) that optimize cycle stability while providing clear manufacturing guidelines. These parameter specifications balance performance improvement with manufacturability by defining achievable targets

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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 use of these additives enhances the cycle stability of alkaline storage batteries by preventing shape changes in ZnO, leading to improved performance and efficiency.

Implementation Method 1

a solubility (25° C.) of the additive with respect to a potassium hydrate aqueous solution of concentration of 6 M is 120 mg/L or less

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSolubility control: Solvation

Data Source

PatentUS20230102630A1Anode active material layer, and alkaline storage battery
Publication Date: 2023.03.30 TOYOTA JIDOSHA KK
  • US20230102630A1 patent drawing
  • US20230102630A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A main object of the present disclosure is to provide an anode active material layer with excellent cycle property. The present disclosure achieves the object by providing an anode active material layer to be used in an alkaline storage battery, the anode active material layer comprising a Zn based active material, and an additive; and the additive includes at least one kind of Mg, Sr and La; a solubility (25° C.) of the additive with respect to a potassium hydrate aqueous solution of concentration of 6 M is 120 mg/L or less; and a ratio of the additive with respect to the Zn based active material is 1 weight % or more and 60 weight % or less.