Novel and/or Miniature Power Sources

The Chemical Sensors group is exploring chemistries that use water-induced electrochemical reactions in packaged materials to produce energy. This approach is environmentally sound, as electrochemical cells do not produce green-house emissions.

These chemistries are first being studied in a flow-through configuration, so water replenishment and sustained energy production can be accomplished in a continuous or semi-continuous fashion, with added control provided by monitoring water intake. 

Various combinations of chemicals are being considered, and are expected to be used simultaneously in a power system providing number of advantages:

• Elimination of potentially adverse chemicals that could be leaked into the environment
• Production of energy densities ~200 Wh/kg
• Production of subproducts that can feed hydrogen-anode fuel cells, potentially enabling a high intrinsic specific energy system for use in underwater applications
• Allowing cells to be designed in various sizes to provide specific power (current/voltage) requirements
• Allowing a mechanically rechargeable power system by incorporating an easily exchangeable package

List of Publications