abstract |
Provided is a hybrid storage cell that can prevent overcharge, despite lacking an expensive protection switch or other device adapted to deal with high current or high voltage, in order to proactively prevent rupture or ignition of lithium ion storage cells or other organic solution storage cells in the event of unforeseen overcharging. The cell comprises a plurality of series-connected virtual cells ( 32 ) of parallel-connected organic solution storage cells ( 24 A) and aqueous solution storage cells ( 26 A), the organic solution storage cells and the aqueous solution storage cells having closely approximating average discharge voltages. The overcharge threshold voltage of the organic solution storage cells is designed to be higher than the final discharge voltage of the aqueous solution storage cells, and the final discharge voltage of the organic solution storage cells to be lower than the final discharge voltage of the aqueous solution storage cells. In the event that the organic solution storage cells of a virtual cell are exposed to overcharge energy that could lead to overcharge, the energy is absorbed by a hydrogen-generating reaction of the aqueous solution storage cells, holding the discharge voltage of the virtual cell to the final discharge voltage of the aqueous solution storage cells, and preventing the organic solution storage cells from reaching the overcharge threshold voltage. |