Infinity Turbine has introduced an innovative electrode manufacturing technology that combines fiber laser heat treatment, additive manufacturing and laser-induced carbonization. The new technology is capable of converting carbon-rich materials, such as sugar and wood fibers, into hard carbon or graphene-like structures. The resulting 3D printed electrodes are expected to improve the Salgenx seawater flow battery manufacturing process, gas processing and electrocatalyst applications.
Promoting the development of seawater flow batteries with 3D printed electrodes
Salgenx seawater flow batteries are known for their safe and environmentally friendly method of storing grid-scale energy. Infinite Turbine’s 3D printed carbon electrodes significantly improve battery performance by providing a highly conductive, high surface area electrode structure. The combination of laser-induced graphene and custom 3D printed geometries enables faster ion exchange, higher energy density and longer battery life, all while using sustainable materials. Additionally, this manufacturing method reduces production time and complexity through the use of just-in-time (JIT) technology, thereby further reducing inventory costs.
This new electrode technology has several advanced features that help improve efficiency. Infinity Turbine uses fiber lasers to induce carbonization of organic materials such as sugar, converting them into graphene-like carbon structures with excellent electrical conductivity and structural integrity. The process takes place in a carbon dioxide-laden environment, improving carbonization efficiency by preventing combustion and ensuring the production of high-purity carbon. The 3D additive manufacturing process builds electrodes layer by layer, creating custom structures with improved surface area and mechanical strength, key to improving energy storage. Additionally, the technology quickly and efficiently integrates various battery materials via JIT manufacturing, enabling rapid development of components such as metal powders and insulators. The combination of carbonization, 3D printing and material flexibility enables the creation of highly efficient electrodes that meet the needs of energy storage and processing applications. The process can also incorporate layers of mixed materials, which is useful in gas processing and electrocatalysis applications.
These 3D printed electrodes will significantly improve the performance of Salgenx seawater batteries, which are already attracting attention for their safety, cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. This new technology promises to enable higher performance in renewable energy storage systems by improving battery charging times, energy density and longevity.
Develop R&D and production applications
The introduction of 3D printed electrodes with optional powder materials opens up new research and development opportunities. It enables rapid implementation from concept to reality, thereby simplifying product marketing. The 3D manufacturing process also paves the way for the development of machines specifically for the production of electrodes and electrocatalysts. This process could reinvent manufacturing methods in a manner similar to the Tesla Gigapress, enabling the creation of 3D printed anodes and cathodes that would form complete electrolyzer units.
Other applications: gas treatment and electrocatalysis
Infinity Turbine’s 3D printed carbon structures have versatility that goes beyond energy storage. In gas processing, these carbon structures could be applied to in situ processes, potentially making carbon capture and conversion systems more efficient. The high surface area and electrical conductivity of graphene-like materials are particularly beneficial for these applications, including electrical desalination systems that convert seawater into freshwater.
The 3D building concept is also well suited to electrocatalytic applications. Infinity Turbine’s systems can integrate advanced electrocatalytic technology to facilitate the conversion of carbon dioxide and water to generate valuable carbon-based products such as methylglyoxal (C3) and 2,3-furandiol with efficiency greater than 99% of alcohol (C4). These materials hold great promise for sustainable manufacturing, opening the possibility of non-toxic alternatives such as methylglyoxal for formaldehyde, used in industrial products such as plastics and adhesives.
Advances in energy solutions
The 3D printed carbon electrode developed by Infinity Turbine marks a major advancement in energy storage and electrocatalysis technology. These carbon-based materials promise to improve the efficiency of Salgenx seawater batteries and transform gas processing applications. Using sustainable organic materials such as sugar and wood fiber, Infinity Turbine reaffirms its commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing and clean energy innovation.
Daguang focuses on providing solutions such as precision CNC machining services (3-axis, 4-axis, 5-axis machining), CNC milling, 3D printing and rapid prototyping services.
