Jun 18 2013
Based on its recent analysis of the advanced battery market, Frost & Sullivan recognizes mPhase Technologies, Inc. with the 2013 North America Frost & Sullivan Technology Innovation Award for its pioneering nanobattery technology. The mPhase cell-array battery overcomes the CHALLENGES associated with conventional batteries and provides an efficient, cost-effective energy storage solution.
Energy storage systems are crucial for the realization of modern policies toward higher utilization of non-fossil energy sources, including renewable energy. However, conventional battery chemistries such as nickel (Ni)-cadmium (Cd), Ni-zinc (Zn), and lithium (Li)-ion are inefficient as high-performance power sources. They are also environmentally unfriendly and plagued by issues such as self-discharge, power drain, and leakage. Currently available reserve or stand-by batteries are bulky, expensive to build, and contain large areas of wasted space due to mechanical separators inside the battery.
"mPhase Technologies' smart nanobattery is sustainable, cost-effective, easy to handle, and possesses a long shelf life, all of which clearly differentiate it from competing battery technologies," said Frost & Sullivan Research Analyst Neha Arun Bakshi. "This positions the technology to enhance the effectiveness of conventional batteries and encourage widespread adoption of reserve batteries."
mPhase Technologies' nanostructured battery has a unique design, where at least one electrode is divided into cells. A proprietary nanomaterial-based membrane limits the penetration of electrolyte to a specific cell. Since the battery can only be activated by introducing the electrolyte into the electrode, separating the two prevents deterioration of active material during storage. This means that the voltage and current generated by the battery can be easily controlled to increase battery life, while self-discharge before use is totally eliminated.
The advanced battery design significantly reduces the time needed for activation of the batteries. An interesting feature of the battery is its "power on command" capability that enables users to remotely activate the battery. The technology also facilitates activation of the battery by means of remote control switches and triggering mechanisms.
Significantly, mPhase's technology can be used for low-energy density applications as well as providing a high-performance power source for electronic devices. It allows for easy integration of electronic components directly into the manufacturing process of a battery. This helps in the development of different classes of tightly integrated devices, such as wireless sensors, integrated active radio frequency identification (RFID) tags, and lab-on-the-chip systems for both defense and commercial markets.
Additionally, the cell-array battery can illustratively alter the toxic electrolytes inside the battery. The electrolyte solution contacts the nanostructure membrane and cell, and the chemical composition of the electrolyte changes to a less toxic chemical compound, thus neutralizing the electrolyte. The nanobattery technology can then capitalize on ongoing eco-trends across industries.
"mPhase Technologies' innovation increases the inherent value for customers by eliminating the need for frequent battery changes and reducing battery waste," summarized Neha Bakshi. "Its nanobatteries are less bulky, offer a cost-effective means for mass production, and are safe to operate due to lower toxicity features. Since nanobatteries are compatible with all semiconductor devices, it can be used for a larger number of applications in electronics, military, and transportation sectors."
In recognition of its patented cell-array battery technology and continuous focus on technology innovation to widen its application in different industry verticals, mPhase Technologies is the worthy recipient of the 2013 Frost & Sullivan Technology Innovation Award in the advanced battery market. Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents this award to the company that has demonstrated uniqueness in developing a technology that significantly impacts both the functionality and the customer value of new products and applications. The award lauds the relevance of the innovation to the industry.
Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Awards recognize companies in a variety of regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analysis, and extensive secondary research in order to identify best practices in the industry.