Symmetric Configuration Research Articles

On the fcc to hcp transformation in a Co-Ru alloy: Variant selection and intervariant boundary character

Ru is a common addition to the Co-binder in WCCo hardmetals for advanced cutting tool applications. Internal Co-Co interfaces control many properties such as hot-hardness, toughness, and creep resistance. Hence, phase transformations determining the internal interface character can be harnessed to achieve superior properties. We investigate the γ (face-centred cubic) to α (hexagonally closed packed) martensitic phase transformation of a model Co-Ru binder alloy. We describe the crystallography of γ to α phase transformations and the resulting α/γ and α/α interface character distributions. The stabilisation of the γ-phase results in the formation of low energy (0 0 0 1) α/γ interphase boundary planes. Preferred formation of α/α intervariant and twin-related boundaries with symmetrical tilt configurations are also observed. We discuss how crystallographic constraints of the transformation promote the formation of grain boundary planes other than those of the lowest energy configurations.

Conformal ultra‐miniaturized frequency selective surface for medical shielding applications

SummaryThis article presents a novel wearable frequency selective surface (FSS) for shielding the communication link of implantable devices with the external environment. The proposed shield blocks a dual‐band frequency operating at 404 MHz and 2.45 GHz in the medical implant communication service (MICS) and industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) bands. The two distinct stop bands provide a high‐frequency band ratio of 6.02 in an ultra‐miniaturized physical form factor of 0.024λo × 0.024λo, with at least 76.96% miniaturization when compared to the existing art. Each of the unit cells is imprinted on a conformal 50 μm polyester substrate in a symmetrical configuration. The polyester adheres with jean to realize its compatibility with wearable applications. The designed shield system offers a low profile of only 0.00146λo. By suppressing the grating lobe, the proposed shield achieves a high angular stability of 80° and polarization insensitivity of 90° in both transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes. The FSS is fabricated and measured results validate its performance. To evaluate the physical insight, an equivalent circuit model (ECM) analysis is done. To ensure durability, the proposed shield system is tested with Amitech SDR04.

BDAPbI4 Dion Jacobson hybrid perovskite-based artificial nociceptors on biodegradable substrate

With the current evolution in artificial intelligence technology, biodegradable biomimetic devices are essential to execute increasingly complicated tasks and respond to challenging work environments. Consequently, the integration of artificial nociceptors holds considerable importance in enhancing the capabilities of humanoid robots. Low-dimensional Hybrid organic–inorganic Perovskites (HOIPs) show promise in emulating biological neurons owing to their inherent ion migration properties. In this work, we present Dion-Jacobson hybrid perovskite (BDAPbI4 (BDA=NH3C4H8NH3)) diffusive memristor on a paper substrate to serve as an artificial nociceptor. The symmetric electrode configuration as Paper/Ag/PCBM/BDAPbI4/PMMA/Ag demonstrates low operating voltage diffusive memristor with an ON/OFF ratio of ∼103. The surface investigation of device before top electrode deposition via X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy XPS and electrical characteristics of the complete device reveal the interplay between Schottky barrier at BDAPbI4/Ag interface and conductive filament formation/rupture within active layer as the origin of the abrupt resistive switching. The characteristics of the diffusive memristor resemble those of biological nociceptors, displaying sensitivity to external stimuli and key attributes such as threshold response, lack of adaptation, and relaxation. These findings underscore the potential application of Dion-Jacobson hybrid perovskites (BDAPbI4) as diffusive memristors in future neuromorphic intelligence systems.

Modeling of self-gravitating compact configurations using radial metric deformation approach

This study analyzes new analytical solution types that explore the influence of complexity on time-independent, spherically symmetric astrophysical configurations, based on a radial metric deformation scheme also known as minimal geometric deformation. We demonstrate that the complexity factor, a scalar function obtained via splitting the Riemann tensor orthogonally, exhibits an additive property. This implies that the overall complexity of a system containing two interacting fluid distributions (represented by Tμν and Φμν) is simply the sum of the individual complexities of each fluid. This work employs the radial metric deformation approach, a powerful tool for constructing astrophysically viable models of anisotropic matter, by building upon the Vaidya–Tikekar and Finch–Skea relativistic spacetimes. We observe that both the metric ansatzes produce qualitatively similar features, though the magnitudes may vary slightly, for any non-zero value of the decoupling parameter (0≤α<1). Interestingly, both models preserve their anisotropic nature despite reaching the zero-complexity limit (α=1). Finally,we delve into the physical implications of these novel solution types, examining their potential to accurately represent real compact configurations.

Practical operating flexibility of a bifunctional freestanding membrane for efficient anion exchange membrane water electrolysis across all current ranges

AbstractThis study explores a symmetric configuration approach in anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis, focusing on overcoming adaptability challenges in dynamic conditions. Here, a rapid and mild synthesis technique for fabricating fibrous membrane‐type catalyst electrodes is developed. Our method leverages the contrasting oxidation states between the sulfur‐doped NiFe(OH)2 shell and the metallic Ni core, as revealed by electron energy loss spectroscopy. Theoretical evaluations confirm that the S–NiFe(OH)2 active sites optimize free energy for alkaline water electrolysis intermediates. This technique bypasses traditional energy‐intensive processes, achieving superior bifunctional activity beyond current benchmarks. The symmetric AEM water electrolyzer demonstrates a current density of 2 A cm−2 at 1.78 V at 60°C in 1 M KOH electrolyte and also sustains ampere‐scale water electrolysis below 2.0 V for 140 h even in ambient conditions. These results highlight the system's operational flexibility and structural stability, marking a significant advancement in AEM water electrolysis technology.

Exploring the Molecular Terrain: A Survey of Analytical Methods for Biological Network Analysis

Biological systems, characterized by their complex interplay of symmetry and asymmetry, operate through intricate networks of interacting molecules, weaving the elaborate tapestry of life. The exploration of these networks, aptly termed the “molecular terrain”, is pivotal for unlocking the mysteries of biological processes and spearheading the development of innovative therapeutic strategies. This review embarks on a comprehensive survey of the analytical methods employed in biological network analysis, focusing on elucidating the roles of symmetry and asymmetry within these networks. By highlighting their strengths, limitations, and potential applications, we delve into methods for network reconstruction, topological analysis with an emphasis on symmetry detection, and the examination of network dynamics, which together reveal the nuanced balance between stable, symmetrical configurations and the dynamic, asymmetrical shifts that underpin biological functionality. This review equips researchers with a multifaceted toolbox designed to navigate and decipher biological networks’ intricate, balanced landscape, thereby advancing our understanding and manipulation of complex biological systems. Through this detailed exploration, we aim to foster significant advancements in biological network analysis, paving the way for novel therapeutic interventions and a deeper comprehension of the molecular underpinnings of life.

Self-gravity and Bekenstein-Hawking entropy

We study the effect of self-gravity on entropy by directly solving the 4D semi-classical Einstein equation. In particular, we focus on whether the Bekenstein-Hawking formula holds when self-gravity is extremely strong. As an example, we consider a simple spherically symmetric static configuration consisting of many quanta and construct a self-consistent non-perturbative solution for ħ in which the entropy exactly follows the area law for many local degrees of freedom of any kind. This can be a candidate for black holes in quantum theory. It represents a compact dense configuration with near-Planckian curvatures, and the interior typically behaves like a local thermal state due to particle creation inside. Here, the information content is stored in the interior bulk, and the self-gravity plays an essential role in changing the entropy from the volume law to the area law. We finally discuss implications to black holes in quantum gravity and a speculative view of entropy as a gravitational charge.

Experimental Demonstration of Controllable PT and Anti-PT Coupling in a Non-Hermitian Metamaterial.

Non-Hermiticity has recently emerged as a rapidly developing field due to its exotic characteristics related to open systems, where the dissipation plays a critical role. In the presence of balanced energy gain and loss with environment, the system exhibits parity-time (PT) symmetry, meanwhile as the conjugate counterpart, anti-PT symmetry can be achieved with dissipative coupling within the system. Here, we demonstrate the coherence of complex dissipative coupling can control the transition between PT and anti-PT symmetry in an electromagnetic metamaterial. Notably, the achievement of the anti-PT symmetric phase is independent of variations in dissipation. Furthermore, we observe phase transitions as the system crosses exceptional points in both anti-PT and PT symmetric metamaterial configurations, achieved by manipulating the frequency and dissipation of resonators. This work provides a promising metamaterial design for broader exploration of non-Hermitian physics and practical application with a controllable Hamiltonian.

Polycrystalline phases engineered in-situ in polyaniline-graphene composite evoluting an exceptional stability and high charge storage capacity: An EIS investigative approach to evaluate material's stability

Development of electroactive materials exhibiting high performance with superior stability is crucial in the field of supercapacitors and battery research. We report on synthesis of highly stable composite of semi-polycrystalline polyaniline and graphene (SPani-graphene) and its application in supercapacitor electrodes. The electrochemical behavior and device performance of the electrodes were investigated through cyclic voltammetry (CV), galvanostatic charge-discharge GCD) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) in a 3-electrode and a 2-electrode (device) cell configurations, repectively. The cell specific capacitance (Cell Csp) achieved from the 2-electrode symmetric cell configuration was 525.5 F g−1 at 0.1 A g−1 using polymer gel electrolyte (PGE). The PGE in this work is xanthan gum jellied in 1 M aq. Na2SO4. The maximum energy density and power density achieved from the device was 46.7 Wh kg−1 and 16.16 kW kg−1, respectively, at 0.4 A g−1. Furthermore, the device exhibits an excellent retention of cell specific capacitance and coulombic efficiency of 97 % and 94 %, respectively, over 10,000 continuous GCD cycles, indicating an excellent rate capability as well as a promising power management. To investigate the material's electrochemical durability, a detailed EIS study has been carried out using both, 3-electrode, and 2-electrode cell configurations, before and after long cycling test (over 10,000 continuous GCD cycles). Our thorough experimentation delivers satisfactory results and has been explained in detail in the manuscript. Hereby, we propose that the EIS technique can be adopted for investigating materials' electrochemical stability, in addition to long CV and GCD cycles in the field of supercapacitors and battery research.

DBS−-doped polypyrrole/CNTs with 3D conductive architecture connected with MoS2 as symmetrical electrodes for boosted CDI capability

Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), as an appealing Faradaic material for efficient capacitive deionization (CDI), is limited by unsatisfactory electrical conductivity, inferior removal rate, and restacking. Herein, we develop a CNT/PPy/MoS2 ternary composite using a robust 3D conductive interconnected structure CNT/PPy, constructed from multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and polypyrrole (PPy) doped with dodecyl benzene sulfonate (DBS-), as the growing substrate to mitigate the aggregation of MoS2 nanoflakes. In this design, CNT/PPy ameliorates the wettability of the composite, provides convenient movement pathways, a fast charge transport rate, and facilitates ions diffusion process. Moreover, reinforced dispersibility and enlarged interlayer spacing of MoS2 nanoflakes supply sufficient embedded sites for ion uptake and rapid transfer. Meanwhile, tight chemical coupling of Mo-N-C bonds can maintain the structural integrity of the composite electrode. Particularly, the symmetrical electrode configuration was established to address the kinetical unbalance of HCDI system. Consequently, the CNT/PPy/MoS2 displays a large specific capacitance of 160.83 F g−1 at 5 mV s−1, which is nearly 4.33 times that of MoS2 (37.17 F g−1). The optimized CNT/PPy/MoS2 cell achieves a maximum desalination capacity of 24.8 mg g−1, ultra-high deionization rate of 5.24 mg g−1 min−1, and superior capacity retention rate of 92.7% over 25 cycles. In addition, Na+ ions were captured by the joint action of cation-exchange of DBS--doped PPy, electrostatic adsorption of CNTs, and intercalation reaction of MoS2. The proposed composite structural design and electrode configuration should be a potential avenue to realize highly efficient deionization.

Monocrystalline photovoltaic material based symmetrical and unsymmetrical Triple-Series Parallel-Ladder configuration for harvesting maximum power under partial shading conditions

In recent years, renewable energy has made significant strides in energy markets, with solar energy emerging as a key player, as evidenced by the proliferation of photovoltaic (PV) array installations. However, challenges arise when these arrays operate under partial shading conditions (PSC), leading to disparities in array irradiance and decreased power output. Addressing this issue requires careful selection of PV materials and configurations. This study introduces a new Triple-Series Parallel-Ladder Configuration (T-SP-L) utilizing monocrystalline material PV to optimize output power under PSC. To assess its efficacy, symmetrical and unsymmetrical PV arrays is analyzed and compared with alternative configurations such as Total-Cross-Tied (T-C-T), Bridge-Link (B-L), Honey-Comb (H-C), and Series-Parallel (S-P), across various shading scenarios including Long-Narrow (L-N), Long-Wide (L-W), Short-Narrow (S-N), Short-Wide (S-W), and Middle (M).

Nanohybridization Effects on Impact Behavior of Basalt/Glass Fiber Reinforced Epoxy Hybrid Nanocomposites

Basalt fiber-based composites have received greater attention from manufacturers and researchers recently for use in a variety of structural applications, owing to their high strength-to-weight ratio, high stiffness, and excellent mechanical properties. The main objective of the current research is to examine the impact behavior of hybrid basalt/glass fiber reinforced composites that have been altered by the addition of MWCNTs and SiO2 (Nano silica) to the epoxy matrix as per the ASTM standards. All of the composites were created using Manual lay-up method followed by Compression molding using novel symmetric stacking sequence configurations of B/GG/BB/GG/BB/GG/B fibers with nanoparticles at weight percentages of 0%, 1% (0.5% MWCNTs + 0.5% SiO2) 2% (1% MWCNTs + 1% SiO2) and 3% (1.5 % MWCNTs + 1.5% SiO2). The homogeneous dispersion of nanoparticles in the epoxy matrix was achieved by ultrasonicator and magnetic stirrers. The maximum value of Izod impact strength was recorded as 203 kJ/m2 for the composite filled with 2 wt. % of nano-fillers. In comparison to the composite containing no fillers, the composite adding 2 wt. % showed a 24% improvement from 167 to 203 kJ/m2 in Izod impact resistance. It was observed that increasing the weight percentage of fillers in composites causes insufficient interfacial interaction between the matrix and fibers, thereby decreasing their impact resistance. The load transmission between the matrix and fibers is increased by the presence of MWCNTs/SiO2 at the fiber/matrix interface, which also improves the fracture toughness. According to images obtained by Scanning Electron Microscopy of the fracture surfaces of impact-tested specimens, the major reasons for failure include fiber/matrix deboning, fiber breaking, fiber fracture and fiber pull-out.

Synthesis of 3D rice-like BiOCl battery-type electrode material and evaluation of their electrochemical performance in a symmetrical supercapacitor device configuration

3D porous rice-like BiOCl nanostructure was prepared via solvothermal technique with sodium chlorate as a surfactant which serves as electrode material for the supercapacitor applications. The prepared nanoparticles supported on nickel foam textile exhibit high battery-type charge storage ability in a 3 M KOH aqueous electrolyte solution. The dominance of the battery-type charge storage mechanism of the BiOCl electrode was confirmed through the CV study. Furthermore, the GCD study revealed a good specific capacity of 501 C/g at 0.5 A/g current density and cycle stability of 80% over 2500 cycles. In the presence of a 3 M KOH electrolyte, a symmetric supercapacitor device was constructed with two identical 3D rice-like BiOCl electrodes. This configuration unveiled an impressive energy density of 21.8 Wh/kg at 772.5 W/kg power density. To illustrate its practical viability, two BiOCl/BiOCl symmetric devices were connected in series, successfully powering a red LED for approximately 50 s with high light intensity. This underscores the practical potential of the 3D rice-like BiOCl electrode in energy storage systems. In order to maximize the potential of BiOCl material in the future, the focus could be shifted towards mitigating the challenge of potential drop. This hurdle could be tackled by fabricating nanocomposites of BiOCl incorporated with conductive polymers and graphene oxide, thus elevating its overall performance.

Quasi-static evolution of axially and reflection symmetric large-scale configuration

In this paper, we review a recently offered notion of quasi-static evolution of the axial self-gravitating structures at large scales and the criterium to characterize the corresponding evolutionary aspects under the influence of strong curvature regimes. In doing so, we examine the axial source’s dynamic and quasi-static behavior within the parameters of various modified gravity theories. We address the formalism of these notions and their possible implications in studying the dissipative and anisotropic configuration. We initiate by considering higher-order curvature gravity. The Palatini formalism of [Formula: see text] gravity is also taken into consideration to analyze the behavior of the kinematical as well as the dynamical variables of the proposed problem. The set of invariant velocities is defined to comprehend the concept of quasi-static approximation that enhances the stability of the system in contrast to the dynamic mode. It is identified that vorticity and distinct versions of the structure scalars [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] play an important role in revealing the significant effects of a fluid’s anisotropy. As another example of evolution, we check the influence of Palatini-based factors on the shearing motion of the object. A comparison-based study of the physical nature of distinct curvature factors on the propagation of the axial source is exhibited. This provides the intriguing platform to grasp the notion of quasi-static evolution together with the distinct curvature factors at current time scenario. The importance of slowly evolving axially symmetric regimes will be addressed through the distinct modified gravitational context. Finally, we share a list of queries that, we believe, deserve to be addressed in the near future.

Enhancing electrochemical capacitor performance of N-doped tannin-derived carbons by hydrothermal treatment in ammonia

This study demonstrates that ammonia concentration when doping carbons using hydrothermal treatment has crucial impact on textural properties. The latter translates into an improvement of the electrochemical performance of carbon materials, when used into electrochemical capacitors, especially at high-rate performance. Nitrogen-doped carbons were synthesized by subjecting tannin to hydrothermal carbonization in ammonia solutions of varying concentrations. After carbonization and CO2 activation, the as-produced activated carbons (ACs) were tested as electrodes for electrochemical capacitors in symmetric configuration using 1 M H2SO4 as aqueous electrolyte. Interestingly, ammonia concentration during the hydrothermal synthesis step did not significantly affect the final N content (ca. 3 and 4 at. %) nor the nitrogen and oxygen functionalities on the surface. However, the use of ammonia had crucial impact on the textural properties developed by CO2 activation, and therefore on the electrochemical performance of the ACs. The best-performing N-doped AC showed specific electrode capacitance values, based on carbon material, of 212 F g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and outstanding capacitance retention of ca. 71 % at 40 A g−1. It also showed high cycling stability, with capacitance retention of ca. 96 % after 30,000 cycles. Furthermore, this AC outperformed similar reported materials, achieving a specific energy of 4.6 W h kg−1 at 12.1 kW kg−1.

Comparative study of plaque surface temperature and blood heat transfer in a stenosed blood vessel with different symmetrical configurations

The presence of macrophage cells inside plaque can lead to a change in plaque temperature, which can be measured by using arterial wall thermographic techniques to predict the severity of stenosis in the vessel without complicated surgery. This study aims to analyze the effect of plaque symmetricity with a similar degree of stenosis (DOS) on plaque surface temperature and blood heat transfer in a straight vessel. This analysis aims towards predicting the severity of stenosis in a straight blood vessel through plaque temperature as an indicator. Two cases are being analyzed here; case 1 and case 2 refer to having similar vessel dimensions and an overall degree of stenosis (DOS) of 70%, with the exception of case 1 having a symmetrically developed plaque while case 2 refers to an asymmetrically developed plaque. Euler-Euler multiphase method with the application of the granular model is being applied in this study. At peak systole (0.2 s into the 10th cardiac cycle) in a cardiac cycle, the increase in plaque surface temperature at exit is higher in case of a symmetrically developed stenosis compared to an asymmetric one but the reverse situation happens during end systole (0.5 s into the 10th cardiac cycle). Although the population of macrophages in a plaque is a deciding factor of the thermal signature of a plaque, the symmetricity variation also needs to be taken into consideration while plaque progression is being diagnosed through thermographic technique.

Electromagnetic field on the complexity of minimally deformed compact stars

In the context of this endeavor, we establish a simple protocol for formulating interior stellar solutions that exhibit spherically symmetric configurations against the backdrop of relativistic gravitational decoupling through radial metric deformation (minimal geometric deformation scheme). In this pursuit, we make use of the vanishing complexity factor (Y~TF\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\widetilde{Y}_{TF}$$\\end{document}) condition, based on Herrera’s (Phys Rev D 97, 044010, 2018) innovative concept regarding the complexity of static or slowly evolving spherical matter configurations. The idea of a complexity factor emerges as the outcome of the orthogonal splitting of the Riemann–Christoffel tensor, which yields different scalar functions, known as structure scalars. The protocol is demonstrated by employing the Buchdahl and Tolman relativistic stellar ansatzes as isotropic seeds. Both of these ansatzes exhibit similar physical features, with a minor variation in their magnitudes in the case of Y~TF≠0\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\widetilde{Y}_{TF}\ e 0$$\\end{document}, where 0≤α<1\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$0\\le \\alpha <1$$\\end{document}, and α\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\alpha $$\\end{document} represents a coupling parameter. However, when Y~TF=0\\documentclass[12pt]{minimal} \\usepackage{amsmath} \\usepackage{wasysym} \\usepackage{amsfonts} \\usepackage{amssymb} \\usepackage{amsbsy} \\usepackage{mathrsfs} \\usepackage{upgreek} \\setlength{\\oddsidemargin}{-69pt} \\begin{document}$$\\widetilde{Y}_{TF}=0$$\\end{document}, the Buchdahl stellar ansatz exhibits a uniform density matter configuration, while the Tolman model features an increasing pressure profile. The obtained relativistic stellar models satisfy the basic viability constraints required for the physically realistic configurations.

Electrochemical investigation of phosphorous and boron heteroatoms incorporated reduced graphene oxide electrode material for supercapacitor applications

Graphene-based nanomaterials are becoming common components for consumer products due to their outstanding charge carrier ability, high surface area, high thermal stability, and great potential for environmental decontamination. Nowadays, heteroatoms added carbon allotropes are providing better electrochemical performances in the field of supercapacitors as an electrode material. In this present work, boron and phosphorus heteroatoms were introduced in the network of reduced graphene oxide to increase the capacitance of the supercapacitor. The B and P incorporated rGO (PB-rGO) electrode material was prepared by the hydrothermal method. The properties of the electrode material were analyzed using structural, morphological, and elemental analysis. The prepared electrode material was used as a working electrode material in supercapacitors. In 1 M H2SO4 aqueous electrolyte medium, a maximum specific capacitance of 436 F g−1 was found for PB-rGO in a three-electrode configuration. In a symmetric configuration, a power density of 394 W kg−1 and an energy density of 12.48 Wh kg−1 were observed for the PB-rGO electrode. The cyclic stability analysis showed 97.6 % retention after 10,000 cycles at the current density of 3 A g−1.

A three-dimensional co-continuous network structure polymer electrolyte with efficient ion transport channels enabling ultralong-life all solid-state lithium metal batteries

Solid polymer electrolytes (SPEs) have emerged as one of the most promising candidates for the construction of solid-state lithium batteries due to their excellent flexibility, scalability, and interface compatibility with electrodes. Herein, a novel all-solid polymer electrolyte (PPLCE) was fabricated by the copolymer network of liquid crystalline monomers and poly(ethylene glycol) dimethacrylate (PEGDMA) acts as a structural frame, combined with poly(ethylene glycol) diglycidyl ether short chain interspersed serving as mobile ion transport entities. The preparaed PPLCEs exhibit excellent mechanical property and outstanding electrochemical performances, which is attributed to their unique three-dimensional co-continuous structure, characterized by a cross-linked semi-interpenetrating network and an ionic liquid phase, resulting in a distinctive nanostructure with short-range order and long-range disorder. Remarkably, the addition of PEGDMA is proved to be critical to the comprehensive performance of the PPLCEs, which effectively modulates the microscopic morphology of polymer networks and improves the mechanical properties as well as cycling stability of the solid electrolyte. When used in a lithium-ion symmetrical battery configuration, the 6 wt%-PPLCE exhibites super stability, sustaining operation for over 2000 h at 30 °C, with minimal and consistent overpotential of 50 mV. The resulting Li|PPLCE|LFP solid-state battery demonstrates high discharge specific capacities of 160.9 and 120.1 mA h g−1 at current densities of 0.2 and 1 C, respectively. Even after more than 300 cycles at a current density of 0.2 C, it retaines an impressive 73.5% capacity. Moreover, it displayes stable cycling for over 180 cycles at a high current density of 0.5 C. The super cycle stability may promote the application for ultralong-life all solid-state lithium metal batteries.

Design and Development of Flow Fields with Multiple Inlets or Outlets in Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

In vanadium redox flow batteries, the flow field geometry plays a dramatic role on the distribution of the electrolyte and its design results from the trade-off between high battery performance and low pressure drops. In the literature, it was demonstrated that electrolyte permeation through the porous electrode is mainly regulated by pressure difference between adjacent channels, leading to the presence of under-the-rib fluxes. With the support of a 3D computational fluid dynamic model, this work presents two novel flow field geometries that are designed to tune the direction of the pressure gradients between channels in order to promote the under-the-rib fluxes mechanism. The first geometry is named Two Outlets and exploits the splitting of the electrolyte flow into two adjacent interdigitated layouts with the aim to give to the pressure gradient a more transverse direction with respect to the channels, raising the intensity of under-the-rib fluxes and making their distribution more uniform throughout the electrode area. The second geometry is named Four Inlets and presents four inlets located at the corners of the distributor, with an interdigitated-like layout radially oriented from each inlet to one single central outlet, with the concept of reducing the heterogeneity of the flow velocity within the electrode. Subsequently, flow fields performance is verified experimentally adopting a segmented hardware in symmetric cell configuration with positive electrolyte, which permits the measurement of local current distribution and local electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. Compared to a conventional interdigitated geometry, both the developed configurations permit a significant decrease in the pressure drops without any reduction in battery performance. In the Four Inlets flow field the pressure drop reduction is more evident (up to 50%) due to the lower electrolyte velocities in the feeding channels, while the Two Outlets configuration guarantees a more homogeneous current density distribution.