Energy Storage Science and Technology ›› 2024, Vol. 13 ›› Issue (1): 143-156.doi: 10.19799/j.cnki.2095-4239.2023.0713

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Key materials and advanced characterization of high-energy-density flow battery

Su YAN1,2(), Fangfang ZHONG1(), Junwei LIU2(), Mei DING1, Chuankun JIA1,2   

  1. 1.Institute of Energy Storage Technology, College of Energy and Power Engineering, Changsha University of Science & Technology, Changsha 410114, Hunan, China
    2.Zhangjiagang Detai Energy Storage Equipment Co. , Ltd. , Suzhou 215627, Jiangsu, China
  • Received:2023-10-13 Revised:2023-10-24 Online:2024-01-05 Published:2024-01-22
  • Contact: Fangfang ZHONG, Junwei LIU E-mail:y18570740913@163.com;ffzh@csust.edu.cn;ljw-email@163.com

Abstract:

Redox flow batteries have garnered considerable attention in the realm of large-scale energy storage because of their inherent safety, deep charging and discharging capabilities, and flexible design. They have emerged as a crucial energy storage technology to fulfill China's dual carbon goal. However, their applicability is hindered by low-energy-density, prompting an urgent need for the development of high-energy-density flow batteries. The energy density of a redox flow battery is intricately linked to the performance of its key materials, with a particular emphasis on the solubility of both positive and negative active substances, as well as the electrochemical reactivity of the electrolytes. Consequently, the research focus in the field of flow batteries revolves around the development and characterization of these key materials. This review delves into the primary construction strategies employed in high-energy-density flow batteries. This study provides an in-depth examination of four methods aimed at enhancing battery energy density, namely: the multi-electron transfer system, improving the solubility of electrochemically active substances, semi-solid flow batteries, and redox-targeted reaction flow batteries. In addition, the review highlights the current advancements in in-situ characterization techniques within the field of flow batteries. These techniques include in situ Raman spectroscopy, in situ UV-vis absorption spectroscopy, in situ infrared spectroscopy, and in situ nuclear magnetic resonance technology. By introducing these advanced techniques, this review underscores their pivotal role in elucidating complex electrochemical reaction mechanisms. In summarizing the research progress of key materials for high-energy-density flow batteries, the review emphasizes the significance of in situ characterization technology. This study clarifies the crucial role these techniques play in unveiling intricate electrochemical reaction mechanisms. Furthermore, the review offers a prospective analysis of the application scenarios for high-energy-density flow batteries, further solidifying their potential impact in the field of large-scale energy storage.

Key words: electrochemical energy storage technology, flow battery, energy density, in situ characterization

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