The present invention is directed to electrochemical device such as batteries having two electrolytes between the anode and the cathode. The batteries of this invention can have 50% higher operating voltage and power compared to batteries with a single electrolyte. The electrochemical device according to the present invention is preferably arranged with an alkaline electrolyte in contact with the anode and an acidic electrolyte in contact with the cathode. The electrolytes are separated by a bipolar membrane that preferably also provides ionic conductivity between the two electrolytes and also generates a supply of protons and hydroxide anions. A further understanding of the invention can be obtained from the detailed discussion of specific embodiments below.

For purposes of clarity, this discussion refers to devices, methods, and concepts in terms of specific examples. However, the method of the present invention may operate with

a wide variety of types of devices. It is therefore intended that the invention not be limited by the discussion of specific embodiments.

Additional objects, advantages, aspects and features of the present invention will become apparent from the description of preferred embodiments, set forth below, which should be taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, a brief description of which follows.