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Exploring the Role of Electrode Microstructure on the Performance of Non-Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries
Name
J. Electrochem. Soc.-2019-Forner-Cuenca-A2230-41.pdf
Description
Published version
Size
1.3 MB
Format
Adobe PDF
Checksum (MD5)
609d1ba8c8b988c45b3bace95add7eb3
Author(s)
Forner-Cuenca, Antoni
Penn, Emily E
Oliveira, Alexandra M
Brushett, Fikile R
Date Issued
2019
Journal
Journal of The Electrochemical Society
Publisher
The Electrochemical Society
Version
Final published version
Abstract
© The Author(s) 2019. Redox flow batteries are an emerging technology for long-duration grid energy storage, but further cost reductions are needed to accelerate adoption. Improving electrode performance within the electrochemical stack offers a pathway to reduced system cost through decreased resistance and increased power density. To date, most research efforts have focused on modifying the surface chemistry of carbon electrodes to enhance reaction kinetics, electrochemically active surface area, and wettability. Less attention has been given to electrode microstructure, which has a significant impact on reactant distribution and pressure drop within the flow cell. Here, drawing from commonly used carbon-based diffusion media (paper, felt, cloth), we systematically investigate the influence of electrode microstructure on electrochemical performance. We employ a range of techniques to characterize the microstructure, pressure drop, and electrochemically active surface area in combination with in-operando diagnostics performed in a single electrolyte flow cell using a kinetically facile redox couple dissolved in a non-aqueous electrolyte. Of the materials tested, the cloth electrode shows the best performance; the highest current density at a set overpotential accompanied by the lowest hydraulic resistance. We hypothesize that the bimodal pore size distribution and periodic, well-defined microstructure of the cloth are key to lowering mass transport resistance.
Terms of Use
Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International license
Persistent DSpace Link
DOI of Published Version
10.1149/2.0611910jes
