Method for Operating a Device Comprising at Least One Electric Primary Cell Containing Silicon, an Electrochemical Primary Cell, a System Comprising the Device and a Computer Implemented Method

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This patent describes a method and device for operating primary electrochemical cells (batteries) that use silicon as the anode material, especially in the form of granules or sintered plates. The invention details a unique system for electrolyte management, where the electrolyte (usually a potassium hydroxide solution) can be exchanged with a non-electrolyte protic liquid (such as water or alcohol) during idle periods (open-circuit voltage, no current draw). This approach significantly reduces corrosion of the silicon anode, prolongs cell lifespan, and increases efficiency. The system also provides for computer-controlled management of electrolyte flow, temperature, and cell performance monitoring.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Electric vehicles, such as cars, buses, and e-bikes seeking sustainable, high-performance batteries.
• Stationary energy storage systems for renewable energy (like solar/wind) where battery longevity and recyclability are important.
• Portable devices or backup power supplies where non-toxic, recyclable batteries are required.
• Eco-friendly energy storage solutions in remote or resource-limited locations.
• Disposal or recycling of silicon waste from semiconductor manufacturing, transforming it into battery material.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Substantially prolongs battery lifespan by reducing silicon anode corrosion during idle periods.
• Allows for higher energy/material efficiency compared to traditional silicon batteries.
• Enables the use of widely available, non-toxic, and recyclable silicon instead of critical or hazardous materials like lithium.
• Reduces environmental impact and cost by enabling recycling of silicon manufacturing waste.
• Improves safety and sustainability of batteries by avoiding lithium and using benign electrolytes.
• Provides a computer-controllable system for precise battery management, adaptability, and monitoring.

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Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The subject matter of the invention is a device comprising an electrochemical primary cell with an anode, a cathode, an electrolyte, and preferably at least one separator, wherein the anode comprises silicon as anode material, in particular a granulate of silicon particles, and wherein the device comprises an electrolyte delivery unit and a first and a second reservoir for the exchange of the electrolyte and preferably for the supply of a protic liquid that is not an electrolyte, as well as a method for operating the device.