Metal-Carbon Dioxide Battery With Electrolyte Regeneration System

Smart overview of the Invention

The patent describes a metal-carbon dioxide battery enhanced with an electrolyte regeneration system. This system is strategically positioned on the anode side, aiming to boost both battery performance and durability. This innovation targets the limitations of conventional aqueous battery systems, where bicarbonate or carbonate ions persist in the anode electrolyte after CO2 capture, affecting efficiency and long-term operation.

Technical Background

The development of renewable energy solutions has intensified research into electrochemical water electrolysis, which complements carbon dioxide capture and conversion technologies. Zinc and aluminum-based aqueous battery systems are highlighted as cost-effective and abundant metal anode options. These systems can produce hydrogen while capturing CO2 as carbonate, yet face challenges with ion accumulation in the electrolyte.

Battery Composition

The battery includes a reaction unit with an anode, cathode, and ion exchange membrane. A first electrolyte supply unit provides an alkali metal hydroxide to the anode, which is regenerated by precipitating carbonic anions as carbonate. The system may use alkali metal hydroxides like sodium, potassium, or lithium hydroxide, and metals such as zinc and aluminum for the anode.

Electrolyte Regeneration

A key feature is the oxide precipitation unit, which separates and recovers metal oxides from the anode discharge. This involves a storage tank and feeder system that adjusts pH levels to precipitate metal oxides. Additionally, a second electrolyte supply unit manages the cathode side, forming carbonic anions through CO2 and water reactions, with filtration to separate unwanted compounds.

Additional Features

The system incorporates ion exchange membranes to transfer ions between the anode and cathode, enhancing reaction efficiency. It also includes a separation unit for hydrogen gas recovery and a mechanism to recycle unreacted materials. This comprehensive design aims to optimize battery function by addressing ion accumulation and facilitating continuous electrolyte regeneration.