Real-Time Fuel Cell Charge Analysis using in-situ NMR Technology

OVERVIEW

Georgetown University researchers have developed an innovative NMR configuration for analyzing anodic/cathodic reactions and charge/discharge statuses in fuel cells and rechargeable batteries. This in-situ/operando stripline NMR detector, placed directly within the cell, allows for real-time monitoring and detailed analysis of fuel cell and battery chemistry. This method represents a significant shift, enabling quicker, more streamlined chemical analysis without disrupting the system. The resulting NMR data offers valuable insights into the local environment and chemical interactions. This technology has broad potential across various fields, particularly in advancing more efficient and durable fuel cells and batteries in the aeronautical and automotive industries.

BACKGROUND

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) is a vital tool in physical and material sciences for providing quantitative and dynamic information about chemical species and their reactions. Traditional NMR methods, however, are incompatible with electrochemical processes, limiting their use in analyzing fuel cells and rechargeable batteries. This new technology overcomes these limitations by introducing a stripline detector and RF electromagnetic-field confining plates, addressing challenges in NMR-electrochemistry compatibility while enhancing signal-to-noise ratios and reducing magnetic susceptibility effects. The compact design generates a homogeneous magnetic field essential for precise NMR measurements and seamlessly integrates electrochemical operations. This innovation has the potential to set a new standard for evaluating the optimal performance of fuel cells and rechargeable batteries.

Benefit

Real-Time Monitoring and Immediate Optimization: The NMR configuration enables real-time monitoring of fuel cell and battery chemistry, providing immediate feedback for adjustments. This capability allows for on-the-spot optimizations, enhancing the efficiency and performance of these energy systems.Enhanced Analysis of Complex Chemistries: This technology offers detailed analysis of previously poorly understood fuel-cell and battery chemistries. By uncovering new insights, it has the potential to significantly improve the performance and lifespan of fuel cells and rechargeable batteries.Non-Disruptive Data Collection: The NMR configuration generates highly informative data without disrupting the system, ensuring accurate analysis of chemical species and local environmental conditions. This non-invasive approach reduces the risk of damaging sensitive components during testing.Improved Sensitivity and Precision in Measurements: The innovative use of a stripline detector and RF-field confining plates enhances signal detection, providing more precise and accurate measurements. This improvement expands the applicability of NMR in fuel cell and battery research, leading to better-informed decisions in development and manufacturing processes.Compact and Efficient Design: The seamless integration of electrochemical operations with NMR detections within a compact design reduces the system's footprint while creating a homogeneous magnetic field. This efficiency not only simplifies the setup but also lowers operational costs, making it an attractive option for various industrial applications.

Market Application

Optimization of Fuel Cell Performance: Used in the real-time analysis and adjustment of fuel cell chemistry to enhance efficiency, durability, and output in automotive and aeronautical applications.Development of Next-Generation Batteries: Applied in the research and development of advanced rechargeable batteries, improving energy density, lifespan, and safety for consumer electronics and electric vehicles.Quality Control in Manufacturing: Employed during the production of fuel cells and batteries to monitor and ensure the consistency and quality of the chemical processes involved.Research in Electrochemical Processes: Utilized in academic and industrial research to gain deeper insights into the fundamental electrochemical processes within various energy storage and conversion systems.Material Testing and Validation: Applied in the testing and validation of new materials for use in fuel cells and batteries, facilitating the discovery and implementation of more efficient and cost-effective materials.

Publications

• Sorte, E. G.; Banek, N. A.; Wagner, M. J.; Alam, T. M.; Tong, Y. J. In Situ Stripline Electrochemical NMR for Batteries. ChemElectroChem
  2018, 5 (17), 2336–2340. https://doi.org/10.1002/celc.201800434.
• Ataee‐Esfahani, H.; Chen, D.; Tong, Y. J. Dual‐IR Window/Electrode Operando Attenuated Total Reflection‐IR Absorption Spectroscopy for Battery Research. Batter Supercaps
  2019, 2 (1), 60–65. https://doi.org/10.1002/batt.201800068.
• Tong, Y. J. In Situ Electrochemical Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy for Electrocatalysis: Challenges and Prospects. Curr Opin Electrochem
  2017, 4 (1), 60–68. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.coelec.2017.09.017.
• US Patent No. 10,892,526; DIV 11,374,269 .