Enhancement of the output voltage of galvanic cell above thermodynamic value: How to get 3 V from 1.5 V accumulator

Challenge

Searching for efficient use of energy resources also contributes to addressing one of the urgent global issues. This includes one-purpose and specialized applications including clinical diagnostics and point-if-care applications.

Technology

The enhancement of the output voltage is usually achieved by serial stacking of primary cells. The output voltage of our improved galvanic cell is enhanced by a simple change in an internal architecture. Whole design is realized in the one volume of an electrolyte, in a single container. The multiplied value of the voltage of the original primary cell is thus obtained for the improved single cell. Our approach simplifies the issues of energy supply potentially leading, for example, to the usage of lower number of accumulators and cells.

Our innovative technology can be used in point-of care testing which uses power supply e.g.

• Glucose testing
• Hemoglobin testing (for anemia)
• Coagulation testing
• Cholesterol/lipid testing
• Lactate testing
• Hemoglobin testing
• Biosensors for e.g. borreliosis It can also be used as a more effective minimalized source of energy for devices that circulate in the human body.

Commercial Opportunity

Technology suitable e.g. for point-of-care diagnostic applications. This concept is generally applicable for all types of chemical energy sources (employing an electrolyte) – galvanic cells (batteries) and for fuel, enzyme and microbial based biofuel cells. It provides the possibility to be used as an energy source for the simple, one-purpose and specialized applications where it will be integrated into the body of the electronics. Moreover, it seems optimal also as a solution for implantable analytical devices powered by biofuel cells using substances available in the living system, e. g. glucose, electrolytes.

Development Status

The principles of the function were described; output characteristics of the developed primary cell are being determined.

Patent Situation

Czech patent application was submitted (08/2017) PV 2017-472.

Further Reading

The solution of the improved galvanic cell brings a longer service life of the cell itself and thus the entire device. It reduces the economic costs and environmental burden. The galvanic cell is not only more efficient than available technologies but it also has almost unlimited storage time.

The new technology has been supported by a proof of concept project.