Enhancing Electrical Characteristics in a High-Power Seawater Battery: Solutions with Acid Zinc Anolyte and Alumina-Carbon-Cement Separator

Abstract

The potential of seawater as a source of galvanic cell energy has not been fully realized due to significant challenges, particularly anode degradation in single-compartment high-power seawater batteries. This study addresses these limitations by introducing a novel two-compartment system, utilizing an acid zinc anolyte and an alumina-carbon-cement separator designed to enhance both the electrical performance and longevity of the battery. Experimental results demonstrate a remarkable increase in current output (97.81 times) and a substantial boost in power (5.25 times) compared to conventional single-compartment cells. Furthermore, the internal resistance of the system is reduced by 95.7%, indicating improved energy transfer efficiency. The use of the alumina-carbon-cement separator effectively mitigates anode corrosion, a common issue that limits the operational lifespan and reliability of seawater batteries. These findings suggest that the proposed two-compartment configuration not only overcomes critical technical barriers but also offers a promising and sustainable alternative for renewable energy generation from seawater. The enhanced performance and durability of this system highlight its potential for practical applications in marine and coastal energy harvesting, contributing to the advancement of clean energy technologies.