This invention discloses a new design for an in-situ electrochemical cell holder. This holder allows researchers to study the changes in a material's crystal structure and elemental properties during electrochemical reactions using Synchrotron radiation techniques. These techniques include X-ray diffraction (XRD) and X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES and EXAFS). The holder can be used in both transmission and fluorescence modes.
Type of IP
Faculty
Category of Patent
Department
This invention could help accelerate the development of new and improved battery technologies with better performance and efficiency. This could lead to advancements in electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and portable electronics.
- Real-Time Material Analysis: The cell allows for in-situ measurements, enabling researchers to directly observe and analyze the behavior of battery materials while the battery is operational.
- Synchrotron X-ray Versatility: The cell is compatible with a wide range of Synchrotron X-ray techniques, including X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Absorption Near Edge Structure (XANES), and Extended X-ray Absorption Fine Structure (EXAFS). This versatility allows researchers to probe various aspects of battery materials, such as crystal structure, oxidation state, and local atomic environment.
- Standard Cell Format Compatibility: The design accommodates standard coin cell formats (2032 and 2016 type), making it readily integratable with existing battery research infrastructure.
- Flexible Measurement Modes: The cell offers flexibility for both transmission and fluorescence measurement modes.
- Cost-Effective Design: The in-situ cell has a relatively simple and cost-effective design compared to some alternative solutions. This makes it a more accessible and practical tool for researchers in the field of battery material development
Design and initial testing of the cell holder setup done, demonstrating its capability to perform in-situ electrochemical measurements with Synchrotron-based techniques. Further refinement and optimization are ongoing to enhance performance and usability based on feedback and experimental results.
Battery Manufacturing
- Battery Research and Development: By enabling in-situ analysis of electrode materials during operation, scientists can,
- Observe material degradation mechanisms and identify factors that limit battery lifespan
- Develop strategies to improve the stability and cyclability (charging/discharging cycles) of electrode materials
- Material Science: Researchers in material science can utilize this technology to:-
- Investigate the behavior of catalysts used in fuel cells and other electrochemical devices during operation
- Analyze the performance of materials for supercapacitors and other energy storage applications