This invention is a novel solid-state Zinc-air battery (ZAB) employing a multifunctional cobalt-based molecular catalyst immobilized on a silica support via a robust pyridine-containing amine linker. The technology overcomes the traditional limitations of sluggish oxygen reduction (ORR) and oxygen evolution (OER) reactions in ZABs, offering a high-performance, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solution for energy storage. The catalyst shows excellent trifunctional electrocatalytic activity (ORR, OER, and HER), making it uniquely versatile and valuable for emerging power systems.
Figure 1. Illustrates Electrochemically Active Surface Area (ECSA) calculation for electrocatalyst (4) and (1) in 0.1 M KOH
Zinc-air batteries (ZABs) offer high energy density and eco-friendliness but remain impractical due to sluggish oxygen reduction (ORR) and oxygen evolution (OER) reaction kinetics at the air cathode. Existing Pt/C and IrO₂ catalysts are costly, short-lived, and scarce. A single, stable, and earth-abundant catalyst is essential to unlock their commercial potential.
- Multifunctional Catalyst Design: A uniquely engineered cobalt molecular complex, tethered to silica via a pyridine-based linker, delivers robust bifunctional activity for both ORR and OER—streamlining the air cathode like never before.
- Covalent Immobilization on Silica: Permanent covalent bonding to the silica matrix ensures exceptional catalyst stability, resisting degradation and enabling long-term reusability.
- High Performance: Outperforming conventional Pt/C systems, the battery achieves a striking open circuit voltage of 1.51 V and a peak power density of 60 mW/cm²—raising the bar for next-gen Zinc-air batteries.
- Scalable & Sustainable: By eliminating the need for rare-earth metals, costly MOFs, or complex carbon frameworks, the technology offers a low-cost, high-impact path to sustainable, scalable energy storage.
A sandwich-type solid-state ZAB was assembled using a zinc metal anode, a KOH-soaked membrane separator, and a cathode made from commercial carbon paper coated with the synthesized catalyst. The catalyst ink was prepared using a water/IPA/Nafion mixture and applied via sonication for uniform coating. This prototype successfully powered a red LED for over 10 minutes, confirming its real-world application potential.
The technology is prototype-ready and has been validated under laboratory conditions. It is now poised for scale-up, field testing, and potential commercial partnerships.
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This innovation addresses the global demand for sustainable and affordable energy storage. It provides a low-cost alternative to lithium-ion batteries and precious metal-based systems, with safer chemistry and greater environmental compatibility. Its solid-state design and long operational life make it especially suitable for off-grid energy access, rural electrification, wearable electronics, and emergency backup power in healthcare or disaster-relief scenarios.
- Next-Gen Energy Storage: Redefining Zinc-air batteries for grid-free, high-capacity applications
- Clean Energy Backbone: Unlocking seamless integration with intermittent renewables like solar and wind
- Electronics Unplugged: Powering the future of portable, wearable, and always-on smart devices
- Electric Mobility Reinvented: Enabling lighter, safer, and longer-range alternatives to lithium-ion
- Defense-Grade Innovation: Fueling high-endurance, low-signature power systems for aerospace and military ops
Geography of IP
Type of IP
PCT/IB2024/056023
539526