Device for Housing an Electrochemical Cell for Magnetic Resonance Investigations and Method for Manufacturing a Current Collector

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This invention is a device that allows electrochemical cells—such as batteries or fuel cells—to be examined with magnetic resonance techniques during charging or discharging, without the common interference caused by metal contacts or the risk of contamination from faulty seals. It features a special current collector made from a non-conductive carrier with a thin conductive layer, and a robust sealing system that maintains the cell integrity even under pressure.

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• Analyzing the internal processes of batteries or fuel cells during operation using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or spectroscopy.
• Developing and testing new battery chemistries by observing in-operando behavior.
• Diagnosing failure or degradation mechanisms inside electrochemical cells without disassembly.
• Quality control in battery manufacturing.
• Academic research in electrochemistry and materials science.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables non-invasive, real-time observation of electrochemical cells during charge or discharge cycles.
• Reduces signal disturbances during magnetic resonance measurements by minimizing metallic contacts.
• Prevents contamination of the cell due to improved sealing and the use of chemically resistant materials.
• Improves safety by allowing the housing to withstand internal pressures without leakage.
• Supports advanced research and product development in energy storage technologies.

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Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a device in which electrochemical cells, in particular batteries or fuel cells, can be examined using magnetic resonance methods, including during a charging or discharging process (in-operando), without the disturbances previously occurring from massive contact elements and without contamination of the cell due to leakage or sealing material. The device according to the invention comprises a housing for accommodating an electrochemical cell as well as at least one current collector, which is provided for contacting at least one region of the electrochemical cell to be examined, wherein the current collector comprises an electrically non-conductive carrier on which at least one region comprising an electrically conductive material is arranged. Preferably, at least one conductor track or a coating made of an electrically conductive material for contacting is arranged on an electrically non-conductive carrier made of plastic. The layer thicknesses for a conductor track or a coating are between 10 and 5000 nm. Preferably, the current collector and housing are sealed via a clamping ring seal, which can also withstand overpressure inside the cell.