An open decoupled cell design achieving electricity generation and amplification through waste-to-energy conversion

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 (ED) incorporating zinc oxidation and oxygen reduction reactions, and low charge voltage (EC) involving zinc-ion reduction and hydrazine (waste) oxidation reactions. Furthermore, we introduce reverse electrodialysis potential (ERED) by decoupling electrolytes. Consequently, the assembled battery demonstrates stability for 1000 cycles at the fast-charging current density of 300 mA cm−2. Moreover, a scaled 20-Ah-capacity battery was performed achieving a high electrical energy efficiency of 375% at 10 mA cm−2. 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. Conventional closed batteries are constrained by the electrical energy efficiency of 100%. Here, authors develop an open decoupled battery with an efficiency of 375% at 10 mA cm−2 through a three electrodynamic-potential design, realizing waste-to-energy conversion and electricity amplification.