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Power-Enhancing Interface for Bipolar Electrochemical Ultracapacitors
DOE Grant No. DE-FG02-98ER86079
Amount: $450,000
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Small Business |
Research Institution |
A 10 fold improvement in power density for ultracapacitors is required to meet hybrid electric vehicle goals without compromising durability. Because ultracapacitor performance is controlled by the electrochemical interface, this project will develop hyperbiopolar technology to increase the electrode interface by 10 - 20 times. Phase I provided a proof-of-concept demonstration for the hyperbipolar configuration, developed thin film processing and handling techniques, assessed processing options leading to an ultracapacitor component which looks like a thin roll of ribbon, and developed bench-scale manufacturing methods that could be used to further scale-up the ultracapacitor. Phase II will construct a stack of sealed bipolar cells with a hyperbipolar interface which is amenable to the high-powered bipolar design. A 50-volt prototype battery will be tested to verify performance goals. The coiled, reticulated electrochemical interface will increase power density 10 fold without sacrificing energy-obtaining 100 A from a 12 cm dia disk instead of 10A.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The hyperbipolar cell should be a cost-effective manufacturing approach for a 10-fold increase in battery specific power (e.g. 1.5 - 6.0 kW/kg for 18s). The technology should offer a 100% increase in fuel efficiency with reduced air pollution. Other commercial applications include cordless tools, emergency equipment, and medical-assist devices.