Smart nanobatteries make for efficient energy management

The "Smart NanoBattery" developed by U.S. micro- and nanospecialists offers novel functionality not usually seen in a battery - namely a shelf life of years, the ability to manage power in new ways, and a more environmentally friendly disposal option. This solution and other innovations from the field of nanotechnology will be presented to the interested specialist public at the sixth NanoEurope, which will be held in St.Gallen (Switzerland) on September 16 - 17, 2008.

One of the most important components restricting the performance and maintenance of wireless sensor systems is the battery required for powering the sensors. AlwaysReady, a company headquartered in the U.S. State of New Jersey, is commercializing scientific findings from the field of nanotechnology. It has developed a novel battery design for sensor systems which will boost innovation initially in defense applications and later on also in commercial uses.

A smart battery based on a unique architecture

The nanobattery developed by AlwaysReady utilizes knowledge from nanotechnology and fluid dynamics. It makes use of a unique membrane whose nanostructured surface is extremely water-repellent. This enables a liquid electrolyte to be kept separate from the battery's electrode until energy is required. This allows the battery to be stored for an unlimited period of time before being used.

In addition, the battery is equipped with cells which can be individually activated for only those moments in which energy is needed. This is not possible in conventional batteries, where the chemical reaction cannot be interrupted until the battery has been entirely depleted. This "energy on demand" property gives the nanobattery a long useful life and makes it the ideal choice for wireless light-current sensor systems.

Broad range of applications is conceivable

The nanobattery opens up new possibilities in the areas of energy storage and management. Initial concrete applications satisfy defense requirements. In the future, this technology may also be integrated in portable electronic devices.

NanoEurope: Platform for innovations in nanotechnology

At the "Nano-based Electronic and Sensor Systems" conference to be held in St.Gallen on September 17, 2008, Fred Allen, President and CEO of AlwaysReady, will present the nanobattery to the interested specialist public. This specialist conference is part of the sixth NanoEurope, the European specialist congress with exhibition for technology and know-how transfer in nanotechnology.

Conference brochure now

available The detailed programs of the individual NanoEurope specialist conferences are now available on-line. The complete brochure can also be ordered as a printed version from the exhibition management.

Booths at the NanoEurope 2008 can be booked up to June 13, 2008. Documentation for exhibitors is available at www.nanoeurope.com.

At a glance: NanoEurope 2008
Date: September 16 - 17, 2008
Venue: Olma Messen St.Gallen, St.Gallen (Switzerland)
Exhibition: Hall 9.1; Congress: Halls 9.1.2, 9.2, and 2.1 Registration: By online ticketing at www.nanoeurope.ch

Following the successful event in the past year with some 3,500 visitors from over 40 countries, the NanoEurope is once again available this year as a meeting platform for the interested specialist public. The event in 2008 offers entrepreneurs and managers from industry and research institutes a forum for discussing commercialization strategies and acquiring investment know-how. In addition, the attendees can learn more about the following focal areas: Multifunctional Textiles, Nano-based Electronic and Sensor Systems, and Systems with Functionalized Surfaces and Structures. And for the fourth time this year, the internationally renowned "NanoRegulation Conference" on voluntary measures in Nano Risk Governance including an international Nano Stakeholder Dialog will be held as part of the NanoEurope 2008.