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.
Figure 1. Schematic giving overview of the working mechanism of the spectroelectrochemical cell holding setup while attached to different components of the beamline at the synchrotron-based experimental station
Traditionally, studying the behavior of materials within a battery relies on taking them out of the cell and analyzing them separately. This disrupts the original chemical and physical environment the material experiences during operation. Also by studying the material in isolation, researchers miss out on crucial insights into how it interacts with other components inside the battery under real operating conditions (like charging and discharging).
- 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.
The invention describes a cell holder design with a stand for vertical and horizontal adjustments. The holder itself consists of two main parts: a metallic base plate to hold and connect to one electrode (positive or negative) and an insulating top cap to hold and connect to the other electrode. The coin cell battery is placed between these two parts. A hole is drilled in the cell case (with a specific diameter) and covered with Kapton tape to allow X-rays to pass through for measurements. The design allows for adjustments to accommodate different measurement modes (transmission or fluorescence).
Design and initial testing of the cell holder setup has been 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.
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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.
- Battery Manufacturing
- Battery Research & 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
- Materials Science: Researchers in materials 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
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