Accelerated degradation techniques for improving the performance and durability of flow batteries. 01/11/2024 - 31/10/2026

Abstract

Flow batteries are a promising technology for the stationary storage of intermittent renewable energy. Yet their commercial prospects are hindered by the lack of techniques to evaluate the durability of the different battery materials. This research project will enhance the performance and durability of flow batteries (FBs) for energy storage applications through the development of accelerated degradation techniques (ADTs). In the first stage of the project, benchmark values for critical parameters will be derived through systematic experimentation. Typical materials and electrochemical FBs will be used. Subsequently, the main part of the project will focus on developing ADTs to generate data for the creation of accurate state of health (SoH) models, speeding up material evaluation for durability prediction. To validate our results, we will prove the effectiveness of our methods by using them on state-of-the-art electrodes with controllable characteristics in collaboration with Prof. Antoni Forner-Cuenca of TU Eindhoven. The challenges related to efficiency, power density, and durability will be addressed through a systematic investigation of the impact of electrode geometry on overpotential. The ultimate outcome of this project will be to develop new ADTs and to gain insight in their ability towards drafting battery maintenance and remediation strategies as well as rapid evaluation of novel flow battery materials for the commercial development of this technology.

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Project type(s)

  • Research Project