The Need

Compared to fossil fuel-powered alternatives, electric vehicles powered by Li‐ion batteries are limited by short driving range, long recharge time, and capacity fade. Alternatives to Li‐ion batteries, such as supercapacitors and redox flow batteries with comparably high specific power and rapid recharge/refill, have poor energy density due to self‐discharge.

The Technology

Researchers at The Ohio State University, led by Dr. Vishnu-Baba Sundaresan, have developed an ionic redox transistor that regulates bidirectional ion transport across the membrane as a function of its redox state. The technology can be used to develop smart membrane separators in supercapacitors and redox flow batteries that would enable the design of a new category of rechargeable/refillable energy storage devices with high energy density and specific power. The membrane separator keeps the polarization of charges in the energy storage device, regulates the flow of ions between the electrodes proportional to an applied input stimulus, and delivers electrical power to an external circuit.

Commercial Applications

• Electric Vehicles
• Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
• Avionics
• Consumer Electronic Gadgets

Benefits/Advantages

• High energy density and specific power
• Refillable, rechargeable, and portable
• Limits self-discharge