Sample interview questions: Can you explain the concept of thermodynamic limits in battery technology?
Sample answer:
Thermodynamic limits in battery technology refer to the maximum theoretical efficiency and energy density that can be achieved in a battery system, based on the fundamental principles of thermodynamics. These limits are determined by the laws of thermodynamics, specifically the first and second laws, which govern the conversion of energy from one form to another.
The first law of thermodynamics, also known as the law of conservation of energy, states that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only converted from one form to another. In the context of batteries, this means that the energy stored in a battery must come from an external source, such as chemical reactions or electrical charging.
The second law of thermodynamics introduces the concept of entropy, which is a measure of the disorder or randomness in a system. It states that in any energy conversion process, the total entropy of an isolated system always increases or remains constant, but never decreases. This principle places limitations on the efficiency of energy conversion processes.
In battery technology, thermodynamic limits are closely tied to the open-circuit voltage and the reversible voltage of the battery. The open-circuit voltage represents the maximum voltage that a battery can provide when no current is drawn from it. It is determined by the redox potentials of the electrochemical reactions occurring within the battery. The reversible voltage, on the other hand, represents the maximum voltage that can be obtained from a fully reversible electrochemical reaction.
The difference between the open-circuit voltage and the reversible voltage is known as the overpotential, which arises due to various factors such as resistance in the battery components, polarization effects, and kinetic limitations. This overpotential leads to energy losses and reduces the… Read full answer