WO2020006442A1 - Systems and methods for energy storage - Google Patents

Abstract

Provided herein are systems and methods for regenerative energy storage. A method for energy storage may comprise two or more chemiluminescent reactants, wherein a chemical reaction of the two or more chemiluminescent occurs in a containing portion of the system; a control element operatively coupled to the containing portion for controlling the chemical reaction of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants; and a photovoltaic cell surrounding at least a portion of the containing portion, wherein the photovoltaic cell is configured to (i) absorb optical energy produced from the chemical reaction, and (ii) generate electrical power from optical energy.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR ENERGY STORAGE

CROSS-REFERENCE

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.

62/691,046, filed June 28, 2018, which application is entirely incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Especially in an age where so many activities and functions depend on a continuous supply of power, lapses or interruptions in the provision of power may lead to highly undesirable results. These recent years have seen a fast-growing market for readily accessible power, such as in batteries, supercapacitors, fuel cells, and other energy storage devices. However, such energy storage devices are often limited in many aspects. For example, they may be volatile or unstable under certain operating conditions (e.g., temperature, pressure) and become ineffective or pose a safety hazard.

[0003] Photovoltaic devices are known for their capabilities of converting a light source, such as sunlight, into electricity. With photovoltaic cells, the energy in the light source is transferred to electrons in a semiconductor material. Because the common light source for photovoltaic devices is sunlight, it may be difficult to be used in onsite situations.

SUMMARY

[0004] Recognized herein is a need for energy storage systems that provide flexibility for use as an onsite generator or back up power supply. The energy storage systems disclosed herein may address such need. The energy storage systems disclosed herein may consume replenishable materials to produce power to function as a power generator. The energy storage systems may convert light generated from chemical reactions into electricity. Power generation and/or power output of the energy storage system may be controlled by controlling the chemical reaction.

[0005] The energy storage systems disclosed herein may use chemiluminescent materials and photovoltaic cells to generate and store energy. The chemiluminescent materials may produce optical energy (e.g., light) based on a chemical reaction. A photovoltaic cell may receive the optical energy to generate electrical power. The electrical power from the photovoltaic cell may be discharged to various electrical loads, such as external electrical systems, to a secondary energy storage system such as a battery pack, and other electrical loads. The chemiluminescence- based energy storage systems may provide flexibility and convenience for use as an onsite generator or back up power supply. The chemiluminescence-based energy storage system provides a power generator that may replace existing power generators with convenient set-up and modularity.

[0006] In an aspect, provided is a system for energy storage. The system comprises: two or more chemiluminescent reactants, wherein a chemical reaction of the two or more

chemiluminescent occurs in a containing portion of the system; control element operatively coupled to the containing portion for controlling the chemical reaction of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants; and a photovoltaic cell surrounding at least a portion of the containing portion, wherein the photovoltaic cell is configured to (i) absorb optical energy produced from the chemical reaction, and (ii) generate electrical power from optical energy.

[0007] In some embodiments, the system further comprises a waveguide adjacent to the photovoltaic cell, wherein the waveguide is configured to direct the optical energy to an optical- absorbing surface of the photovoltaic cell. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a cooling mechanism for removing opaque matter from the containing portion of the system. In some embodiments, the system further comprises a cooling mechanism for decreasing a temperature of the containing portion. The cooling mechanism may comprise a fan, a heat sink, or a cooling fluid.

[0008] In some embodiments, the containing portion is compartmentalized into at least two chambers for storing the at least two or more chemiluminescent reactants respectively. In some cases, the control element is configured to control a flow rate of one chemiluminescent reactant flowing from one chamber into a chamber of another chemiluminescent reactant. In some embodiments, the containing portion comprises a chamber pre-filled with one of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants. In some cases, the control element is configured to control a flow rate of a second chemiluminescent reactant flowing into the chamber.

[0009] In some embodiments, the two or more chemiluminescent reactants are stored in a flare, wherein at least a portion of the flare is positioned inside the containing portion of the system. In some cases, the control element is configured to control an ignition of the flare.

[0010] In some embodiments, the chemical reaction is a chemiluminescent reaction. In some embodiments, the two or more chemiluminescent reactants comprise an oxalate and a dye in a solvent. In some embodiments, the oxalate is bis(6-carbopentoxy-2,4,5-trichlorophenyl) oxalate. In some embodiments, the dye in solvent comprises dibutyl phthalate.

[0011] In an aspect, provided is a method for storing energy. The method comprises: reacting two or more chemiluminescent reactants in a containing portion to emit optical energy from a surface of the containing portion; absorbing, by a photovoltaic cell in optical communication with an external surface of the containing portion, the optical energy; and generating, by the photovoltaic cell, electrical power from the optical energy. In some embodiments, the method further comprises powering an electrical load electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell using the electrical power.

[0012] In some embodiments, the method further comprises powering a control element operatively coupled to the photovoltaic cell, wherein the control element is configured to mix the two or more chemiluminescent reactants using at least part of the electrical power, wherein the control element is electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell. In some embodiments, the control element is configured to control a flow rate of a first chemiluminescent reactant flowing from a first chamber in the containing portion into a second chamber of the containing portion, wherein the second chamber comprises a second chemiluminescent reactant.

[0013] In some embodiments, the method further comprises (i) charging a rechargeable battery using at least part of the electrical power, wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell and (ii) powering a control element operatively coupled to the

rechargeable battery, wherein the control element is configured to mix the two or more chemiluminescent reactants using at least part of an electrical power discharged by the rechargeable battery. In some embodiments, the containing portion comprises a chamber pre- filled with one of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants. In some embodiments, the method further comprises controlling a flow rate, by a control element, of a second

chemiluminescent reactant flowing into the chamber.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method further comprises cooling the containing portion, by a cooling mechanism, to remove opaque matter from the containing portion of the system. In some embodiments, the method further comprises cooling the containing portion, by a cooling mechanism, to decrease a temperature of the containing portion. In some embodiments, the cooling mechanism comprises a fan. In some embodiments, the cooling mechanism comprises a heat sink. In some embodiments, the cooling mechanism comprises a cooling fluid. In some embodiments, the two or more chemiluminescent reactants comprise an oxalate and a dye in solvent. In some embodiments, the oxalate is bis(6-carbopentoxy-2,4,5-trichlorophenyl) oxalate. In some embodiments, the dye in solvent comprises dibutyl phthalate.

[0015] Additional aspects and advantages of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in this art from the following detailed description, wherein only illustrative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown and described. As will be realized, the present disclosure is capable of other and different embodiments, and its several details are capable of modifications in various obvious respects, all without departing from the disclosure. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature, and not as restrictive.

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0016] All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0017] The novel features of the invention are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. A better understanding of the features and advantages of the present invention will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative embodiments, in which the principles of the invention are utilized, and the accompanying drawings (also“Figure” and“FIG.” herein) of which:

[0018] FIG. 1 shows an example of a chemiluminescent battery assembly.

[0019] FIG. 2 shows an example of photovoltaic cell disposed at an external surface of a chemiluminescent battery assembly.

[0020] FIG. 3 shows an example of a stack of a plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies.

[0021] FIG. 4 shows another example of a stack of a plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies.

[0022] FIG. 5 shows an example of an energy storage system, in accordance with embodiments of the invention.

[0023] FIG. 6 shows an example of an energy storage system comprising photovoltaic cells.

[0024] FIG. 7 schematically illustrates an example of an energy storage system comprising a plurality of flares.

[0025] FIG. 8 shows an energy storage system comprising a stack of a plurality of sub-energy storage systems.

[0026] FIG. 9 shows a computer system configured to implement systems and methods of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] While various embodiments of the invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions may occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed.

[0028] Provided herein are systems and methods for energy storage using a chemiluminescent battery. The chemiluminescence-based energy storage systems may provide flexibility and convenience for use as an onsite generator or back up power supply. The energy storage system may consume replenishable materials to produce power to function as a power generator. The energy storage system may convert light generated from chemical reactions into electricity. The chemiluminescence-based energy storage system provides a power generator that may replace existing power generators with convenient set-up and modularity.

[0029] The energy storage systems disclosed herein may use chemiluminescent materials and photovoltaic cells to generate and store energy. The chemiluminescent material may produce optical energy (e.g., light) based on a chemical reaction. The light produced from a

chemiluminescent reaction may be referred to as chemiluminescent light. A unique aspect of chemiluminescent light is that, in addition to the production of light, the chemical reaction generates negligible heat. A photovoltaic cell may receive the optical energy to generate electrical power. The electrical power from the photovoltaic cell may be discharged to various electrical loads, such as to external electrical systems, to a secondary energy storage system such as a battery pack, and/or to other electrical loads.

[0030] The chemiluminescent material can comprise any suitable reactants that can facilitate a chemiluminescent reaction. The reactants can be crystalline, solid, liquid, ceramic, in powder form, liquid form, gas form, or in any other shape, state, or form. In an example, the reactants may be a catalyzed hydrogen peroxide mixture (activator) with an oxalate such as bis(6- carbopentoxy-2,4,5-trichlorophenyl) oxalate "CPPO" and a dye in solvent, such as dibutyl phthalate.

[0031] The oxalate may be bis(2,4,5-trichloro-6-carbobutoxyphenyl) oxalate, bis (2-carbalkoxy- 3,4,6-trichlorophenyl) oxalate, e.g., the 2-carbobutoxy and 2-carbopentoxy compounds, bis (3- carbalkoxy-2,4,6-trichlorophenyl) oxalate, bis(4-carbalkoxy-2,3,6-trichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(3,5-dicarbalkoxy-2,4,6-trichlorophenyl oxalate. Bis(2,3-dicarbalkoxy-4,5,6

trichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis (2,4-dicarbalkoxy-3,5,6-trichlorophenyl) oxalate, bis (2,5- dicarbalkoxy-3,4,6-trichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(2,6-dicarbalkoxy-3,4,5-trichlorophenyl) oxalate, bis(3-carbalkoxy-2,4,5,6-tetrachlorophenyl)oxalate, bis (2-carbalkoxy-3, 4,5,6- tetrachlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(4-carbalkoxy-2,3,5,6-tetrachlorophenyl) oxalate, bis(6- carbalkoxy-2,3,4-trichlorophenyl) oxalate, bis(2,3,-dicarbalkoxy-4,6-dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(3,6-dicarbalkoxy-2,4-dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(2,3,5-tricarbalkoxy-4,6- dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(3,4,5-tricarbalkoxy-2,6-dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(2,4,6- tricarbalkoxy-3,5-dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(3-bromo-6-carbohexoxy-2,4,5- trichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(bis(3-bromo-2-carbethoxy-4,6-dichlorophenyl)oxalate, bis(2- carbethoxy4,6-dichloro-3-nitrophenyl)oxalate, bis [2-carbomethoxy-4,6-dichloro-3- (trifluoromethyl)phenyl] oxalate, bis(2-carbobutoxy-46-dichloro-3-cyanophenyl)oxalate, bis(2- carboctyloxy-4,5,6-trichloro-3-ethoxyphenyl)oxalate, bis(2-carbobutoxy-3,4,6-trichloro-5- ethoxphenyl) oxalate, bis(2-carbisopropoxy-3,4,6-trichloro-5-methylphenyl)oxalate, bis(2- carbisopropoxy-4,6-dichloro-5 octylphenyl) oxalate, bis[2-carbomethoxy-3,5,6-trichloro-4- (l,l,3,3-tetramethylbutyl)-phenyl] oxalate, bis{2-[carbobis(trifluoromethyl) methoxy]-3, 4,5,6- tetrafluorophenyl} oxalate, bis(3,4,6-tribromo-2-carbocyclohexoxyphenyl)oxalate,bis(2,4,5- tribromo-6-carbophenoxy-3-hexadecylphenyl)oxalate, bis(2,4,5-trichloro-6- carbobutoxyphenyl)oxalate or bis (2,4,5-trichloro-6-carbopentoxyphenyl)oxalate.

[0032] The dye may be a sensitizer or a fluorophor. The dye may comprise polycyclic aromatic compounds having at least three fused rings (e.g., anthracene, substituted anthracene,

benzanthracene, phenanthrene, substituted phenanthrene, napthacene, substituted naphthacene, pentacene, substituted pentacene, perylene, or substituted perylene). The dye may be a sensitizer such as, for example, violanthrone, isoviolanthrone, fluorescein, rubrene, 9,10

diphenylanthracene, tetracene, 13,13’ dibenzantronile, or levulinic acid. The dye may be a fluorophor such as, for example, 9,lO-Diphenylanthracene (DP A), l-chloro-9,l0- diphenylanthracene (l-chloro(DPA)), 2-chloro-9,l0-diphenylanthracene (2-chloro(DPA)), 9,10- Bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene (BPEA), l-Chloro-9,lO-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene, 2-Chloro-

9.10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene, 1 ,8-dichloro-9, 10-bis(phenylethynyl)anthracene, Rubrene, 2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl l,4,5,8-tetracarboxynaphthalene diamide, Rhodamine B, 5,12- Bis(phenylethynyl)naphthacene, Violanthrone, l6,l7-(l,2-ethylenedioxy)violanthrone, 16,17- dihexyloxyviolanthrone, 16, 17-butyl oxy violanthrone, N,N'-bis(2,5,-di-tert-butylphenyl)-

3.4.9.10-perylenedicarboximide, l-N,N-dibutylaminoanthracene, or 6-methylacridinium iodide.

[0033] The solvent may comprise a phthalate compound such as dimethyl phthalate or dioctyl phthalate. The solvent may comprise water, an alcohol, an ether (e.g., diethyl ether or diamyl ether), tetrahydrofuran, dioxane, dibutyldiothyleneglycol, perfluoropopylether, 1.2- dimethoxyethane, or an ester (e.g., ethyl acetate, ethyl benzoate, an ester of oxalic acid, or propyl formate). The solvent may comprise carboxylic acid esters, such as ethyl acetate, ethyl benzoate, dimethyl phthalate, dibutyl phthalate, dioctyl phthalate, methyl formate, triacetin, diethyl oxalate, and dioctyl terphthalate; aromatic hydrocarbons, such as benzene, lower alkyl benzenes, such as toluene, ethyl benzene, and butylbenzene; chlorinated hydrocarbons, such as chlorobenzene, o-di chlorobenzene, m-dichlorobenzene, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, hexachloroethane, and tetrachlorotetrafluoropropane, salicylate esters, citrate esters, benzoates, mellitates, acetates, amides, alkyl aryl phosphates, tributyl trimellitate, trihexyl trimellitate, benzyl benzoate, butyl benzoate, benzyl acetate, N,N-Diethyl toluamide, N,N-Diethyl

Benzamide, -Butyl Tri-n-hexyl citrate, Ethyl 2-Acetoxy Salicylate, or diisobutyl adipate.

[0034] The activator may comprise for example, hydrogen peroxide, acetyl trialkyl citrates, trialkyl citrates, N-alkyl-arylenesulfonamides, dialkyl adipates, pentaerythritol tetrabenzoate, glyceryl tribenzoate and mixtures thereof. The activator may comprise lithium carboxylic acid salts (e.g., lithium salicylate, lithium 5-t-butyl salicylate, or lithium 2-chlorobenzoate). The activator may comprise basic compounds such as amines, hydroxides, alkoxides, carboxylic acid salts, or phenolic salts. The activator may comprise salts of carboxylic acids and phenols derived from compounds having a pKa in the range of from about 1 to about 6 as measured in aqueous solution (e.g., tetrabutylammonium salicylate or sodium salicylate).

[0035] In some instances, the reactants may be selected in order to control the wavelength or a range of spectrum of the chemiluminescent light generated from the reaction. For instance, a fluorescent or dye compound is required for light emission when an oxalic-type

chemiluminescent compound is employed. Other compounds may not require a fluorescer but may use it to shift the wavelength of emitted light toward a red region of the spectrum so as to change the color of the emitted light. In some instances, the reactants may have a property which can be utilized to control the chemical reaction. For instance, if the activator and oxalate component are premixed, the reaction between the components can be inhibited or stopped by freezing the mixture, thereby controlling the reaction by controlling the temperature of the energy storage system.

[0036] The energy storage system may advantageously provide a power generator with controllable power generation. In some embodiments, the energy storage system may comprise mechanisms for controlling a chemical reaction from which optical energy is produced, thereby controlling electricity converted from the optical energy. In some cases, light generation can be controlled by controlling the chemiluminescent reaction. The chemiluminescent reaction can further be controlled by controlling a rate (e.g., flowing rate) or concentration of one reactant to be mixed with another reactant, a temperature of the reaction, selection of the reactants, and/or various other factors that may influence the chemical reaction.

[0037] The power generation or power output of the energy storage system may be improved or controlled by providing a mechanism for reducing opaque materials/matter or heat generated from the chemical reaction. Opaque materials/matter such as smoke generated from the chemical reaction may obscure the light that can be captured by a photovoltaic cell. Efficient removal of the smoke may improve the power output of the energy storage system. Similarly, providing a cooling mechanism such as a fan, heat sink, or cooling fluid (e.g., gas, liquid, etc.) may allow the energy storage system to maintain an operational equilibrium.

[0038] Reference will now be made to the figures. It will be appreciated that the figures and features therein are not necessarily drawn to scale.

[0039] FIG. 1 shows an example of a chemiluminescent battery assembly 100. A

chemiluminescent battery assembly may comprise mechanisms for controlling a chemical reaction so as to control light generation. The chemical reaction may be controlled such that at least one of the intensity of light, reaction rate, duration, and wavelength/spectrum of the light can be controlled or adjusted. In some examples, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may comprise a containing portion 110 compartmentalized into two or more chambers. The containing portion may be configured for storing the reactants separately, such as via the compartmentalization. The two or more chambers may be in fluidic communication. The fluidic communication between the two or more chambers may be controlled to control the chemical reaction between the reactants disposed in the respective chambers. In alternative embodiments, the containing portion may comprise a single chamber which is pre-filled with a first reactant (e.g., reactant A) and the second reactant (e.g., reactant B) may be supplied through a port of the single chamber to bring about a chemiluminescent reaction. Alternatively or additionally, the containing portion can be divided into multiple chambers each of which is pre-filled with a reactant, and a second reactant can be supplied to each chamber individually. In some instances, the chemiluminescent reaction can discharge energy for at least about 1 minute, 10 minutes, 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 1 hour (hr), 2hr, 3hr, 4hr, 5hr, 6hr, 7hr, 8hr, 9hr, lOhr, l lhr, l2hr, lday, 2 days, 3 days, 4 days, 1 week, 2 weeks, 3weeks, or longer.

[0040] In the illustrated example, the containing portion 110 of the chemiluminescent battery assembly 100 may comprise two chambers 105, 107, two inlets 111, 112 for supplying reactants or chemiluminescent materials 101, 103, and a valve 109 for controlling the chemical reaction. The valve 109 may be switched on or off to start or stop the reaction. The valve 109 can also control the mixture of the two reactants so as to control the reaction rate or light generation. In an example, when the reactants 101, 103 are in liquid or gas phase, the valve 109 may be configured to control a flow rate of one reactant flowing from one chamber 105 into the other chamber 107. The valve 109 may or may not include or be coupled to additional mechanism such as a pump or compressor to increase or decrease the flow rate. The valve can be located anywhere relative to the chambers. For instance, the valve can be located in a tube connecting the two chambers from an exterior surface as shown in the example. In another instance, the valve may be configured to control an opening located in the barrier 113 separating the chambers. In this case, the reactants may be mixed through the barrier 113 between the two chambers. For example, at least a portion of the barrier 113 (e.g., a gate, a port) may be controlled to open or close, allowing for the control of the mixture of the reactants.

[0041] The chemical reaction may occur in either chamber or both. When there are two or more chambers, the chambers may be adjacent to each other. Alternatively, the chambers may be separated by a distance but be in fluid communication with one another. In some cases, the barrier 113 separating or sandwiched by the two chambers may comprise transparent or semi transparent material, whereby at least a portion of light is permitted to pass through the transparent or semi-transparent material such that the light can be captured by a photovoltaic cell placed around the other chamber.

[0042] The inlets 111, 112 can comprise any suitable structure such as a nozzle or conduit to supply or refuel reactants to the chambers. In some cases, the inlets can also be used as outlets for exhaust or to otherwise extract materials from the chambers. For instance, the remaining reactants and materials produced (e.g., products) from the chemical reaction may be drained using an external pumping mechanism through the inlets 111, 112. Alternatively or in additionally, designated outlets or ports may be included to exhaust or extract materials from the chambers. The inlets can be located anywhere relative to the chamber. In some cases, there can be more than one inlet for a chamber.

[0043] While FIG. 1 shows the chambers as a vertical stack, the configuration is not limited as such. For example, the chambers can be horizontally stacked or concentrically stacked. The chambers may or may not be adjacent to each other. The chamber can have any form factor as long as it comprises a cavity providing space for the reactants and/or reaction. The two or more chambers may or may not be or have the same dimension, shape, or geometry.

[0044] In some embodiments, the containing portion 110 may comprise a single chamber which is pre-filled with a first reactant (e.g., reactant A), and the second reactant (e.g., reactant B) may be supplied through a port of the chamber to bring about a chemiluminescent reaction. In some embodiments, multiple chambers of the containing portion 110 may be pre-filled with a first reactant (e.g., reactant A), and the second reactant (e.g., reactant B) may be supplied through a port of each chamber to bring about a chemiluminescent reaction. For example, the containing portion 110 may be filled with a first reactant (e.g., oxygen, air, etc.), and a reactive fuel that can react with the first reactant can be supplied through the port (e.g., inlet) into the chamber to bring about the chemical reaction. The second reactant can be controlled to flow into the chamber in a similar manner as described elsewhere herein.

[0045] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the containing portion 110 of the

chemiluminescent battery assembly is surrounded by a photovoltaic cell for capturing light generated from the chemiluminescent reaction. The photovoltaic cell is in optical

communication with the cavity of the containing portion such that light generated in the chemical reaction can be captured by the photovoltaic cell, thus harvesting the optical energy. In some cases, the photovoltaic cell may form a portion of a chamber/containing portion. In some cases, the photovoltaic cell may be adjacent to or located at an exterior surface of the

chamber/containing portion. In some cases, the photovoltaic cell may be adjacent to or located at an interior surface of the chamber/containing portion. In some instances, the

chemiluminescent materials can be adjacent to a light-absorbing surface of the photovoltaic cell. In some instances, waveguides may be used to collect light and transfer the light to the light absorbing surface of the photovoltaic cell for improved efficiency. The chemiluminescent materials may or may not contact the photovoltaic cell.

[0046] In some embodiments, the battery assembly can comprise one or a plurality of photovoltaic cells that are electrically connected in series and/or in parallel. The photovoltaic cell can be a panel, cell, module, and/or other unit. For example, a panel can comprise one or more cells all oriented in a plane of the panel and electrically connected in various

configurations. For example, a module can comprise one or more cells electrically connected in various configurations. The photovoltaic cell, or solar cell, can be configured to absorb optical energy and generate electrical power from the absorbed optical energy. In some instances, the photovoltaic cell can be configured to absorb optical energy at a wavelength or a range of wavelengths that is capable of being emitted by the phosphorescent material. The photovoltaic cell can have a single band gap that is tailored to the wavelength (or range of wavelengths) of the optical energy that is emitted by the chemiluminescent reaction. Beneficially, this may increase the efficiency of the energy storage system of the chemiluminescent battery assembly.

[0047] FIG. 2 shows an example of a photovoltaic cell 201 located at an external surface of a chemiluminescent battery assembly 200. The chemiluminescent battery assembly 200 can comprise one or a plurality of photovoltaic cells (e.g., photovoltaic cell 201) that are electrically connected in series and/or in parallel. The photovoltaic cell 201 can be a panel, cell, module, and/or other unit. For example, a panel can comprise one or more cells all oriented in a plane of the panel and electrically connected in various configurations. For example, a module can comprise one or more cells electrically connected in various configurations. [0048] The photovoltaic cell 201, or solar cell, can be configured to absorb optical energy and generate electrical power from the absorbed optical energy. In some instances, the photovoltaic cell can be configured to absorb optical energy at a wavelength or a range of wavelengths being emitted by the chemical reaction occurring in the containing portion. The photovoltaic cell can have a single band gap that is tailored to the wavelength (or range of wavelengths) of the optical energy that is emitted by the reactants. Beneficially, this may increase the efficiency of the energy storage system of the chemiluminescent battery assembly 200. For example, the photovoltaic cell can have a band gap that is tailored to the green light wavelength (e.g.,

500-520 nm) or any other range(s) of wavelengths. Similarly, the reactants may be selected to match the band of the photovoltaic cells. For instance, additional compounds may be used to shift the wavelength of emitted light toward a red region of the spectrum so as to change the color of the emitted light. Alternatively, the photovoltaic cell can be configured to absorb optical energy at other wavelengths (or ranges of wavelengths) in the electromagnetic spectrum (e.g., infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x-rays, etc.)

[0049] One or more photovoltaic cells 201 may be located at or disposed adjacent to one or more sides of the containing portion 110. The photovoltaic cells may be placed onto an exterior surface of the containing portion. Alternatively, the photovoltaic cells may be placed onto an interior surface of the containing portion. When the photovoltaic cells are placed onto an exterior surface of the containing portion, in order to be able to capture light, at least the portion where the photovoltaic cells are attached to may be transparent or semi-transparent such that light can pass through. At least a portion of the containing portion may be covered by one or more photovoltaic cell. For instance, the surface area of the containing portion may be covered by one or more photovoltaic cells by at least about 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%.

[0050] The photovoltaic cell can be coupled to the containing portion via a fastening

mechanism. Examples of fastening mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, form-fitting pairs, hooks and loops, latches, staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, velcro, adhesives, tapes, a combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms. The photovoltaic cell can be removably attached to the containing portion. For example, the photovoltaic cell can be disassembled from and reassembled into the chemiluminescent battery assembly 200 without damage (or with minimal damage) to the containing portion.

[0051] In some cases, a portion of the surface of the chamber may be reflective. For instance, reflective element 203 (e.g., reflector, mirror, reflective coating, etc) may be used in order to direct light generated in the chamber to the light-absorbing surface of the photovoltaic cell. The reflective element may form a portion of the chamber. The reflective element may be a reflective layer placed onto an exterior or interior surface of the chamber. The reflective materials and the cavity of the chamber may be in optical communication.

[0052] The reflective element 203 may be coupled to the containing portion via a fastening mechanism. Examples of fastening mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, form-fitting pairs, hooks and loops, latches, staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, velcro, adhesives, tapes, a combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms. In some instances, the reflective element may have adhesive and/or cohesive properties and adhere to the containing portion without an independent fastening mechanism. For example, reflective materials may be painted or coated on the surface of the chambers. The reflective element can be permanently or detachably fastened together with the containing portion. For example, the reflective element can be disassembled from and reassembled into the chemiluminescent battery assembly 200 without damage (or with minimal damage) to the containing portion.

[0053] In some embodiments, additional components such as optical waveguides or other optical elements may be utilized to direct or focus light generated from the chemical reaction to the photovoltaic cell. One or more optical waveguides may be used in a chamber. The optical waveguides or optical elements may be adjacent to the photovoltaic cell.

[0054] In some embodiments, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may be modular. In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can be assembled or disassembled, such as into the chamber, containing portion, or the photovoltaic cell independently, or into sub combinations thereof. In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can be assembled or disassembled without damage to the different parts or with minimal damage to the different parts. Alternatively, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may be pre-assembled as a single assembly.

[0055] In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly 100, 200 can be housed in a shell, outer casing, or other housing. The chemiluminescent battery assembly can be enclosed in a housing. In some cases, there may be air gap between the interior of the housing and the exterior of the containing portion of the chemiluminescent battery assembly. In such cases, one or more photovoltaic cells can be placed onto the interior of the housing while the

chemiluminescent battery assembly may comprise a transparent or semi-transparent containing portion. Alternatively, there may not be an air gap between the interior of the housing and the exterior of the containing portion of the chemiluminescent battery assembly. In some instances, there can be another intermediary layer between the interior of the housing and the exterior of the containing portion of the chemiluminescent battery assembly. The intermediary layer can be air or another fluid. The intermediary layer can be a light guide or another layer of optical elements (e.g., lens, reflector, diffusor, beam splitter, etc.). In some instances, there can be a plurality of intermediary layers between the interior of the housing and the exterior of the containing portion of the chemiluminescent battery assembly.

[0056] The chemiluminescent battery assembly 100, 200, and/or shell thereof can be portable. For example, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can have a maximum dimension of at most about 1 meter (m), 90 centimeters (cm), 80 cm, 70 cm, 60 cm, 50 cm, 45 cm, 40 cm, 35 cm, 30 cm, 25 cm, 20 cm, 15 cm, 10 cm, 9 cm, 8 cm, 7 cm, 6 cm, 5 cm, or smaller. A maximum dimension of the chemiluminescent battery assembly may be a dimension of the

chemiluminescent battery assembly (e.g., length, width, height, depth, diameter, etc.) that is greater than the other dimensions of the chemiluminescent battery assembly. Alternatively, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may have greater maximum dimensions. In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can have a volume of at most about 5000 centimeter cubed (cm³), 4500 cm³, 4000 cm³, 3500 cm³, 3000 cm³, 2500 cm³, 2000 cm³, 1900 cm³, 1800 cm³, 1700 cm³, 1600 cm³, 1500 cm³, 1400 cm³, 1300 cm³, 1200 cm³, 1100 cm³, 1000 cm³, 900 cm , 800 cm , 700 cm , 600 cm , 500 cm or less. Alternatively, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may have greater volumes. In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can have a mass of at most about 10 kilograms (kg), 9.5 kg, 9 kg, 8.5 kg, 8 kg, 7.5 kg, 7 kg, 6.5 kg, 6 kg, 5.5 kg, 5 kg, 4.75 kg, 4.5 kg, 4.25 kg, 4 kg, 3.75 kg, 3.5 kg, 3.25 kg, 3 kg, 2.75 kg, 2.5 kg, 2.25 kg, 2 kg, 1.75 kg, 1.5 kg, 1.25 kg, 1 kg, 0.75 kg, 0.5 kg, 0.25 kg or less. Alternatively, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may have greater mass. In an example, the

chemiluminescent battery assembly may have the following specifications: 10 cm width, 30 cm length, 3.3 cm height, 1000 cm³ volume, 3.75 kg mass, and 100 kilojoules (kJ) energy capacity.

[0057] In some instances, the chemiluminescent battery assembly may not be portable. For example, a chemiluminescent battery assembly having a higher energy storage capacity can have larger dimensions.

[0058] The chemiluminescent battery assembly can have an energy capacity of at least about 50 kilowatts (kW), 55 kW, 60 kW, 65 kW, 70 kW, 75 kW, 80 kW, 85 kW, 90 kW, 95 kW, 100 kW, 105 kW, 110 kW, 115 kW, 120 kW, 125 kW, 130 kW, 135 kW, 140 kW, 145 kW, 150 kW or greater. Alternatively or in addition, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can have an energy capacity of at most about 150 kW, 145 kW, 140 kW, 135 kW, 130 kW, 125 kW, 120 kW, 115 kW, 110 kW, 105 kW, 100 kW, 95 kW, 90 kW, 85 kW, 80 kW, 75 kW, 70 kW, 65 kW, 60 kW, 55 kW, 50 kW or less.

[0059] FIG. 3 and FIG. 4 show a stack of a plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies. An energy storage system may comprise a plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies.

The chemiluminescent battery assembly may be stackable. The stackable chemiluminescent battery assembly may beneficially provide a modular way to assemble an energy storage system where varieties of performance can be achieved. An individual chemiluminescent battery assembly may be a sub-structure, a section, a sub-section, a sub-system, a modular block, or a building block of an energy storage system, an electrical system, and/or

components/sections/portions thereof. A chemiluminescent battery assembly can be connected to achieve different desired voltages, energy storage capacities, power densities, and/or other battery properties. For example, an energy storage system may comprise a stack of a first chemiluminescent battery assembly, a second chemiluminescent battery assembly, a third chemiluminescent battery assembly, a fourth chemiluminescent battery assembly, and so on, which are stacked vertically or horizontally. Each chemiluminescent battery assembly may comprise a containing portion, chemiluminescent material, photovoltaic cell, valve, an optional waveguide, as described elsewhere herein.

[0060] While FIG. 3 shows eight chemiluminescent battery assemblies stacked together, any number of chemiluminescent battery assemblies can be stacked together in any configuration.

For example, at least 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 100, 200, or more chemiluminescent battery assemblies can be stacked together. While FIG. 3 shows a linear grid- like stack in the horizontal and vertical directions, the assemblies can be stacked in different configurations, such as in concentric (or circular) stacks.

[0061] In some embodiments, waveguides 301 may be utilized to connect multiple

chemiluminescent battery assemblies in the stack. The waveguide 301 may comprise a hollow core. For example, the waveguide may be an optical fiber or cable with a hollow core. The hollow core may be any shape (e.g., rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, non-polygonal, etc.). In some cases, inter-connecting components may be introduced for transporting reactants amongst the multiple chemiluminescent battery assemblies. For instance, the inter-connecting

components may have a cavity or trench with an opening that can each be individually or collectively controlled by a valve for supplying reactants to the connected chambers.

[0062] FIG. 4 shows another example of a stack of chemiluminescent battery assemblies 400.

In some cases, the plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies may be in electrical communication with one another. The plurality of chemiluminescent battery assemblies may be controlled by one or more controllers. In some instances, a controller can be electrically coupled to the one or more chemiluminescent battery assemblies and be capable of managing the inflow and/or outflow of power from each or a chemiluminescent battery assemblies. The plurality of chemiluminescent batteries may be reacted sequentially to provide a steady output of light energy to the photovoltaic cell over a period of time. Alternatively or in combination, the plurality of chemiluminescent batteries may be reacted at a variable rate to provide a variable output of light energy to the photovoltaic cell in response to a variable electrical load.

[0063] The chemiluminescent battery assemblies or the energy storage system can power an electrical load. The energy storage system and the electrical load can be in electric

communication, such as via an electric circuit. The electrical load can be an electrical power consuming device. The electrical load can be an electronic device, such as a personal computer (e.g., portable PC), slate or tablet PC (e.g., Apple® iPad, Samsung® Galaxy Tab), telephone, Smart phone (e.g., Apple® iPhone, Android-enabled device, Blackberry®), or personal digital assistant. The electronic device can be mobile or non-mobile. The electrical load can be a vehicle, such as an automobile, electric car, train, boat, or airplane. The electrical load can be a power grid. In some cases, the electrical load can be another battery or other energy storage system which is charged by the energy storage system. The electrical load can be an electrical system of a host device (e.g., host vehicle), such as navigation, internal combustion engine hybrid motor control, battery management, front radar for adaptive cruise control, engine cooling, fluid pump, emergency brake system, infotainment, window lifting, secure gateway, security, interior lighting, exterior lighting, monitoring (e.g., tire pressure monitoring), air suspension, cameras (front and rear cameras), self-parking, remote parking, and other electrical systems. In some instances, the energy storage system can be integrated in the electrical load. In some instances, the energy storage system can be permanently or detachably coupled to the electrical load. For example, the energy storage system can be removable from the electrical load.

[0064] In some cases, an energy storage system can power a plurality of electrical loads in series or in parallel. In some cases, an energy storage system can power a plurality of electrical loads simultaneously. For example, the energy storage system can power 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 or more electrical loads simultaneously. In some cases, a plurality of chemiluminescent batteries, electrically connected in series or in parallel, can power an electrical load. In some cases, a combination of one or more chemiluminescent batteries and one or more other types of energy storage systems (e.g., lithium ion battery, fuel cell, etc.) can power one or more electrical loads. [0065] As mentioned above, the reactants can be in any form. In some embodiments, the light can be generated from powder phase materials (e.g., phosphorous) that are pre-packaged such as a flare. Typically, flares produce their light through the combustion of a pyrotechnic

composition. The ingredients are varied, but are often based on strontium nitrate, potassium nitrate, or potassium perchlorate and mixed with a fuel such as charcoal, sulfur, sawdust, aluminium, magnesium, or a suitable polymeric resin. Flares may be colored by the inclusion of pyrotechnic colorants. The flare may burn for a limited duration and generate light that can be captured by photovoltaic cells.

[0066] The power generation or power output of the energy storage system may be improved or controlled by providing mechanisms for reducing opaque materials/matter or heat generated (e.g., decreasing temperature of a containing portion) from the chemical reaction. Opaque materials/matter such as smoke generated from the chemical reaction may obscure the light that can be captured by a photovoltaic cell. Efficient removal of the smoke may improve the power output. Similarly, providing a cooling mechanism such as a fan, heat sink, or cooling liquid may allow the energy storage system maintain an operational equilibrium.

[0067] FIGs. 5-8 show examples of energy storage systems, in accordance with embodiments of the invention. As shown in FIG. 5, the energy storage system 500 may utilize a flare 503 to generate light. Any number of flares can be used in the energy storage system 500. The flare may bum for a duration such that light emitted can last at least about 10 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour (hr), 2 hr, 3 hr, 4 hr, 5 hr, 6 hr, 7 hr, 8 hr, 9 hr, 10 hr, 11 hr, 12 hr, or longer. The flare may be in controlled burns. For example, the energy storage system may comprise an ignition mechanism 505 to ignite the burning or reaction from which light 511 can be generated.

[0068] In some cases, the flare may be removably coupled to the energy storage system.

Alternatively, the flare may be permanently fixed to the energy storage system. At least a portion of the flare is positioned inside a containing portion 507 of the energy storage system.

For example, at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, 50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, 80%, 90% of the flare is positioned inside the containing portion such that reaction may occur in the cavity of the containing portion.

[0069] The energy storage system 500 may comprise a mechanism for efficiently reducing or removing heat or particles generated from the burns. For example, the energy storage system may comprise a cooling mechanism 501, such as a fan, to generate air flow 513 inside the containing portion 507 such that heat and smoke generated from the burning of the flare can be transferred out through a port 509. [0070] Similarly, light can be captured and converted into electricity by photovoltaic cells. FIG. 6 shows an example of an energy storage system 600 comprising photovoltaic cells 601. As described elsewhere herein, photovoltaic cells 601, or solar cells, can be configured to absorb optical energy and generate electrical power from the absorbed optical energy. In some instances, the photovoltaic cell can be configured to absorb optical energy at a wavelength or a range of wavelengths being emitted by the burning of the flare in the containing portion. The photovoltaic cell can have a single band gap that is tailored to the wavelength (or range of wavelengths) of the optical energy that is emitted by the flare(s). Beneficially, this may increase the efficiency of the energy storage system.

[0071] Alternatively, the light source can be an artificial light source, such as a light emitting diode (LED) or other light emitting device. For example, the light source can be a laser or a lamp. The light source can be a plurality of light emitting devices (e.g., a plurality of LEDs). In some instances, the light source can be arranged as one LED. In some instances, the light source can be arranged as rows or columns or multiple LEDs. The light source can be arranged as arrays or grids of multiple columns, rows, or other axes of LEDs. The light source can be a combination of different light emitting devices. A light emitting surface of the light source can be planar or non-planar. A light emitting surface of the light source can be planar or non-planar. A light emitting surface of the light source can be substantially flat, substantially curved, or form another shape. The light source can be supported by rigid and/or flexible supports. For example, the supports can direct the light emitted by the light source to be directional or non-directi onal.

In some instances, the light source can comprise primary and/or secondary optical elements. In some instances, the light source can comprise tertiary optical elements. In some instances, the light source can comprise other optical elements at other levels or layers (e.g., lens, reflector, diffusor, beam splitter, etc.). The light source can be configured to convert electrical energy to optical energy. For example, the light source can be powered by an electrical power source which may be external or internal to the chemiluminescent battery assembly 100 200. The light source can be configured to emit optical energy, (e.g., as photons), such as in the form of electromagnetic waves. In some instances the light source can be configured to emit optical energy at a wavelength or a range of wavelengths that is capable of being absorbed by the photovoltaic cell. For example, the light source can emit light at wavelengths in the ultraviolet range (e.g, lOnanometers (nm) to 400nm). In some instances, the light source can emit light at other wavelengths or ranges of wavelenths in the electromagnetic spectrum (e.g., infrared, visible, ultraviolet, x-rays, etc.) [0072] One or more photovoltaic cells 601 may be located at one or more side surfaces of the containing portion. The photovoltaic cells may be placed onto an exterior surface of the containing portion. Alternatively, the photovoltaic cells may be placed onto an interior surface of the containing portion. When the photovoltaic cells are placed onto an exterior surface of the containing portion, in order to be able to capture light, at least the portion where the photovoltaic cells is attached to may be transparent or semi-transparent such that light can pass through (or otherwise have optical communication). At least a portion of the containing portion can be covered by one or more photovoltaic cells. For instance, the surface area of the containing portion may be covered by one or more photovoltaic cells by at least 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%,

50%, 60%, 70%, 80%, or 90%.

[0073] The photovoltaic cell can be coupled to the containing portion via a fastening

mechanism. Examples of fastening mechanisms may include, but are not limited to, form-fitting pairs, hooks and loops, latches, staples, clips, clamps, prongs, rings, brads, rubber bands, rivets, grommets, pins, ties, snaps, velcro, adhesives, tapes, a combination thereof, or any other types of fastening mechanisms. The photovoltaic cell can be removably coupled to the containing portion. For example, the photovoltaic cell can be disassembled from and reassembled into the energy storage system without damage (or with minimal damage) to the containing portion.

[0074] In some cases, the energy storage system 600 may optionally comprise a waveguide. The waveguide may be used to improve the efficiency for capturing light produced from the flare burning. The waveguide may be positioned adjacent to the photovoltaic cells.

[0075] FIG. 7 schematically shows an exemplary energy storage system 700 comprising a plurality of flares. Burning of the plurality of flares may or may not occur concurrently. For instance, the plurality of flares may be ignited sequentially such that the duration of burns may be extended or controlled. Any number of flares may be burnt simultaneously. In some cases, the number of flares to be burnt concurrently may be determined based on the efficiency of the cooling system (e.g., fan) of the energy storage system. In some cases, burning of the flares may be controlled automatically. For instance, a controller operably coupled to the energy storage system 700 may be configured to control the ignition of the plurality of flares. Alternatively or additionally, burning of the flare may be controlled manually. In some cases, the controller may also be capable of managing the inflow and/or outflow of power from the energy storage system.

[0076] In some cases, the energy storage system 700 may optionally comprise waveguide. The waveguide may be used to improve the efficiency for capturing light produced from the flare burning. The waveguide may be positioned adjacent to the photovoltaic cells. [0077] FIG. 8 shows an energy storage system 800 comprising a stack of a plurality of sub- energy storage systems. The sub-energy storage system can be the same energy storage system as described with respect to FIG. 6 or FIG. 7. A plurality of the sub-energy storage systems can be connected to achieve different desired voltages, energy storage capacities, power densities, and/or other battery properties. The plurality of the sub-energy storage systems can be stacked vertically or horizontally or arranged in any other configuration. Each sub-energy storage system may comprise a containing portion, one or more flares, photovoltaic cell, valve, and an optional waveguide, as described elsewhere herein. While FIG. 8 shows eight sub-energy storage systems stacked together, any number of sub-energy storage systems can be stacked together in any configuration. For example, at least about 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 100, 200, or more sub-energy storage systems can be stacked together. While FIG. 8 shows a linear grid-like stack in the horizontal direction, the assemblies can be stacked in different configurations, such as in vertical or concentric (or circular) stacks.

[0078] In some embodiments, inter-connection components such as waveguides may be utilized to connect the multiple sub-energy storage systems in the stack. The waveguide may comprise a hollow core. For example, the waveguide may be an optical fiber or cable with a hollow core. The hollow core may be any shape (e.g., rectangular, triangular, hexagonal, non-polygonal, etc.). In some cases, the plurality of sub-energy storage systems may be in electrical communication with one another.

[0079] A plurality of sub-energy storage systems can be electrically connected in series, in parallel, or a combination thereof. In some instances, there may be interconnects and/or other electrical components between each sub-energy storage systems. In some instances, a controller can be electrically coupled to one or more chemiluminescent battery assemblies and be capable of managing the inflow and/or outflow of power from each or a sub-energy storage systems. In some cases, the plurality of sub-energy storage systems may not have the same configuration. For instance, the sub-energy storage systems may include at a sys-energy storage system having a configuration as described in FIG. 5 and another sys-energy storage system having a configuration as described in FIG. 6. In other instances, the sub-energy storage systems may include at least a sub-energy storage system having a configuration as described in FIG. 1 and another one having a configuration as described in FIG. 6. The various features such as the cooling system and heat extraction features as described with respect to FIG. 5 can be included in any of the energy storage systems as described in FIG. 1- FIG. 4.

[0080] FIG. 9 shows a computer control system. The present disclosure provides computer control systems that are programmed to implement methods of the disclosure. A computer system 901 is programmed or otherwise configured to regulate one or more circuitry in a chemiluminescent battery assembly or energy storage system, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein. For example, the computer system 901 can be a controller, a microcontroller, or a microprocessor. In some cases, the computer system 901 can be an electronic device of a user or a computer system that is remotely located with respect to the electronic device. The electronic device can be a mobile electronic device. The computer system 901 can be capable of sensing the connection(s) of one or more electrical loads with a chemiluminescent battery assembly, the connections(s) of one or more rechargeable batteries with a chemiluminescent battery assembly, and/or the connections(s) of a photovoltaic cell and a light source within an energy storage system.

[0081] The chemiluminescent battery assembly may provide superior charging rates to those of conventional batteries, for example, on the order of 2, 3 , 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 100, 500, 1000, 10⁴, 10⁵, 10⁶, or more recharge (or consumption) cycles. For example, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can charge at a speed of at least about 800 water per cubic centimeters (W/cc), 850 W/cc, 900W/cc, lOOOW/cc, l050W/cc, l lOW/cc, l200W/cc, 1250 W/cc, l300W/cc, 1350 W/cc, 1400 W/cc, 1450 W/cc, l50W/cc or greater. Alternatively, the chemiluminescent battery assembly can charge at a speed of less than about 800W/cc.

[0082] The computer system 901 may be capable of completing different electrical circuit paths or otherwise manipulating different circuitry within a chemiluminescent battery assembly or involving a chemiluminescent battery assembly, such as via controlling one or more switch components (e.g., valve 109 in FIG. 1, etc.) or other electrical components. The computer system 901 may be capable of managing the inflow and/or outflow of power from each or a combination of photon battery assemblies electrically connected in series or in parallel, and in some cases, individually or collectively electrically communicating with a power source and/or an electrical load. The computer system 901 may be capable of computing a rate of discharge of power from the photon battery and/or a rate or consumption of power by an electrical load. For example, the computer system may be based on such computation, determine whether and how to direct power discharged from a photovoltaic cell to a light source, an external battery (e.g., lithium ion battery), and/or an electrical load. The computer system may be capable of adjusting or regulating a voltage or current of power input and/or power output of the chemiluminescent battery. The computer system 901 may be capable of adjusting and/or regulating different component settings. For example, the computer system may be capable of adjusting or regulating brightness, intensity, color (e.g., wavelength, frequency, etc.), pulsation period, or other optical characteristics of a light emitted by a light source in the chemiluminescent battery assembly. For example, the computer system may be configured to adjust a light emission setting from a light source depending on the type of phosphorescent material used in the photon battery.

[0083] For example, the computer system 901 can be capable of regulating different charging and/or discharging mechanisms of a chemiluminescent battery assembly. The computer system may turn on an electrical connection between a light source and a power supply to start charging the energy storage system. The computer system may turn off an electrical connection between the light source and the power supply to stop charging the energy storage system. The computer system may turn on or off an electrical connection between a photovoltaic cell and an electrical load. In some instances, the computer system may be capable of detecting a charge level (or percentage) of the chemiluminescent battery assembly. The computer system may be capable of determining when the assembly is completely charged (or nearly completely charged) or discharged (or nearly completely discharged). In some instances, the computer system may be capable of maintaining a certain range of charge level (e.g., 5%~95%, l0%~90%, etc.) of the photon battery assembly, such as to maintain and/or increase the life of the chemiluminescent battery assembly, which complete charge or complete discharge can detrimentally shorten.

[0084] The computer system 901 includes a central processing unit (CPU, also“processor” and “computer processor” herein) 905, which can be a single core of multi core processor, or a plurality of processors for parallel processing. The computer system 901 also includes a memory or memory location 910 (e.g., random-access memory, read-only memory, flash memory), electronic storage unit 915 (e.g., hard disk), communication interface 920 (e.g., network adapter) for communicating with one or more other systems, and peripheral devices 925, such as cache, other memory, data storage and/or electronic display adapters. The memory 910, storage unit 915, interface 920 and peripheral devices 925 are in communication with the CPU 905 through a communication bus (solid lines), such as a motherboard. The storage unit 915 can be a data storage unit (or data repository) for storing data. The computer system 901 can be operatively coupled to a computer network (“network”) 930 with the aid of the communication interface 920. The network 930 can be the Internet, an internet and/or extranet, or an intranet and/or extranet that is in communication with the Internet. The network 930 in some cases is a telecommunication and/or data network. The network 930 can include one or more computer servers, which can enable distributed computing, such as cloud computing. The network 930, in some cases with the aid of the computer system 901, can implement a peer-to-peer network, which may enable devices coupled to the computer system 901 to behave as a client or a server. [0085] The CPU 905 can execute a sequence of machine-readable instructions, which can be embodied in a program or software. The instructions may be stored in a memory location, such as the memory 910. The instructions can be directed to the CPU 905, which can subsequently program or otherwise configure the CPU 905 to implement methods of the present disclosure. Examples of operations performed by the CPU 905 can include fetch, decode, execute, and writeback.

[0086] The CPU 905 can be part of a circuit, such as an integrated circuit. One or more other components of the system 901 can be included in the circuit. In some cases, the circuit is an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0087] The storage unit 915 can store files, such as drivers, libraries and saved programs. The storage unit 915 can store user data, e.g., user preferences and user programs. The computer system 901 in some cases can include one or more additional data storage units that are external to the computer system 901, such as located on a remote server that is in communication with the computer system 901 through an intranet or the Internet.

[0088] The computer system 901 can communicate with one or more local and/or remote computer systems through the network 930. For example, the computer system 901 can communicate with all local energy storage systems in the network 930. In another example, the computer system 901 can communicate with all energy storage systems within a single assembly, within a single housing, and/or within a single stack of assemblies. In other examples, the computer system 901 can communicate with a remote computer system of a user. Examples of remote computer systems include personal computers, slate or tablet PC’s, telephones, Smart phones, or personal digital assistants. The user can access the computer system 901 via the network 930.

[0089] Methods as described herein can be implemented by way of machine (e.g., computer processor) executable code stored on an electronic storage location of the computer system 901, such as, for example, on the memory 910 or electronic storage unit 915. The machine executable or machine readable code can be provided in the form of software. During use, the code can be executed by the processor 905. In some cases, the code can be retrieved from the storage unit 915 and stored on the memory 910 for ready access by the processor 905. In some situations, the electronic storage unit 915 can be precluded, and machine-executable instructions are stored on memory 910.

[0090] The code can be pre-compiled and configured for use with a machine having a processor adapted to execute the code, or can be compiled during runtime. The code can be supplied in a programming language that can be selected to enable the code to execute in a pre-compiled or as-compiled fashion.

[0091] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described herein, it will be obvious to those skilled in the art that such embodiments are provided by way of example only. It is not intended that the invention be limited by the specific examples provided within the specification. While the invention has been described with reference to the aforementioned specification, the descriptions and illustrations of the embodiments herein are not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Numerous variations, changes, and substitutions will now occur to those skilled in the art without departing from the invention. Furthermore, it shall be understood that all aspects of the invention are not limited to the specific depictions, configurations or relative proportions set forth herein which depend upon a variety of conditions and variables. It should be understood that various alternatives to the embodiments of the invention described herein may be employed in practicing the invention. It is therefore contemplated that the invention shall also cover any such alternatives, modifications, variations or equivalents. It is intended that the following claims define the scope of the invention and that methods and structures within the scope of these claims and their equivalents be covered thereby.

Claims

CLAIMS WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A system for energy storage, comprising:

a containing portion;

two or more chemiluminescent reactants, wherein a chemical reaction of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants is configured to occur in the containing portion of the system and emit optical energy;

a control element operatively coupled to the containing portion for controlling the chemical reaction of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants; and

a photovoltaic cell surrounding at least a portion of the containing portion, wherein the photovoltaic cell is configured to (i) absorb the optical energy produced from the chemical reaction, and (ii) generate electrical power from optical energy.

2. The system of claim 1, further comprising a waveguide adjacent to the photovoltaic cell, wherein the waveguide is configured to direct the optical energy to an optical-absorbing surface of the photovoltaic cell.

3. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cooling mechanism for removing opaque matter from the containing portion of the system.

4. The system of claim 1, further comprising a cooling mechanism for decreasing a temperature of the containing portion.

5. The system of claim 4, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a fan.

6. The system of claim 4, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a heat sink.

7. The system of claim 4, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a cooling fluid.

8. The system of claim 1, wherein the containing portion is compartmentalized into at least two chambers for storing the at least two or more chemiluminescent reactants respectively.

9. The system of claim 8, wherein the control element is configured to control a flow rate of a first chemiluminescent reactant flowing from a first chamber into a second chamber of a second chemiluminescent reactant.

10. The system of claim 1, wherein the containing portion comprises a chamber pre-filled with one of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants.

11. The system of claim 10, wherein the control element is configured to control a flow rate of a second chemiluminescent reactant flowing into the chamber.

12. The system of claim 1, wherein the two or more chemiluminescent reactants are stored in a flare, wherein at least a portion of the flare is positioned inside the containing portion of the system.

13. The system of claim 12, wherein the control element is configured to control an ignition of the flare.

14. The system of claim 1, wherein the chemical reaction is a chemiluminescent reaction.

15. The system of claim 1, wherein the two or more chemiluminescent reactants comprise an oxalate and a dye in solvent.

16. The system of claim 15, wherein the oxalate is bis(6-carbopentoxy-2,4,5-trichlorophenyl) oxalate.

17. The system of claim 15, wherein the dye in solvent comprises dibutyl phthalate.

18. A method for storing energy comprising:

(a) reacting two or more chemiluminescent reactants in a containing portion to emit optical energy from a surface of the containing portion;

(b) absorbing, by a photovoltaic cell in optical communication with an external

surface of the containing portion, the optical energy; and

(c) generating, by the photovoltaic cell, electrical power from the optical energy.

19. The method of claim 18, further comprising powering an electrical load electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell using the electrical power.

20. The method of claim 18, further comprising powering a control element operatively coupled to the photovoltaic cell, wherein the control element is configured to mix the two or more chemiluminescent reactants using at least part of the electrical power, wherein the control element is electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the control element is configured to control a flow rate of a first chemiluminescent reactant flowing from a first chamber in the containing portion into a second chamber of the containing portion, wherein the second chamber comprises a second chemiluminescent reactant.

22. The method of claim 18, further comprising (i) charging a rechargeable battery using at least part of the electrical power, wherein the rechargeable battery is electrically coupled to the photovoltaic cell and (ii) powering a control element operatively coupled to the rechargeable battery, wherein the control element is configured to mix the two or more chemiluminescent reactants using at least part of an electrical power discharged by the rechargeable battery.

23. The method of claim 18, wherein the containing portion comprises a chamber pre-filled with one of the two or more chemiluminescent reactants.

24. The method of claim 23, further comprising controlling a flow rate, by a control element, of a second chemiluminescent reactant flowing into the chamber.

25. The method of claim 18, further comprising cooling the containing portion, by a cooling mechanism, to remove opaque matter from the containing portion of the system.

26. The method of claim 18, further comprising cooling the containing portion, by a cooling mechanism, to decrease a temperature of the containing portion.

27. The method of claim 26, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a fan.

28. The method of claim 26, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a heat sink.

29. The method of claim 26, wherein the cooling mechanism comprises a cooling fluid.

30. The method of claim 18, wherein the two or more chemiluminescent reactants comprise an oxalate and a dye in solvent.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the oxalate is bis(6-carbopentoxy-2,4,5- trichlorophenyl) oxalate.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein the dye in solvent comprises dibutyl phthalate.