An open decoupled cell design achieving electricity generation and amplification through waste-to-energy conversion.
basic_science · Level V
Where this comes from
- Record sourced from PubMed, PMID 41580410.
- Also identified by DOI 10.1038/s41467-026-68550-w and PMC identifier 12921227.
- Licence recorded as CC BY-NC-ND.
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Abstract
Conventional closed batteries are constrained by the electrical energy efficiency of 100%, inevitably leading to the reduction of electricity storage. In contrast, open decoupled batteries offer the possibility to break this limitation, but remain unexplored. Here, we develop a highly efficient and sustainable open decoupled battery through a three-electrodynamic-potential (3E) design, simultaneously realizing waste-to-energy conversion, power generation and energy storage. For decoupled electrodes, we engineer high discharge voltage (E<sub>D</sub>) incorporating zinc oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions, and low charge voltage (E<sub>C</sub>) involving zinc-ion reduction and hydrazine (waste) oxidation reactions. Furthermore, we introduce reverse electrodialysis potential (E<sub>RED</sub>) by decoupling electrolytes. Consequently, the assembled battery demonstrates stability for 1000 cycles at the fast-charging current density of 300 mA cm<sup>-2</sup>. Moreover, a scaled 20-Ah-capacity battery was performed achieving a high electrical energy efficiency of 375% at 10 mA cm<sup>-2</sup>. Techno-economic analyses reveal that storing one megawatt-hour of electricity using the open decoupled battery can reduce the cost and carbon emissions of power generation by over 80% compared to conventional batteries. This work establishes a foundation for designing electricity-amplified batteries with economic and environmental benefits.