The invention provides a half-flow cell for a flow cell of a redox flow battery, the half-flow cell comprising: a flat frame having a through-opening; two or more flat electrode elements separately arranged within the through-opening of the frame, the electrode elements configured to be porous for liquid electrolyte and electrically conducting, each electrode element having a convex quadrilateral form with two opposite long sides and two opposite short sides; a supply channel structure in the frame configured to supply liquid electrolyte to the electrode elements at one of the long sides of each electrode element; and a collection channel structure in the frame configured to collect liquid electrolyte that has flown through the electrode elements at the other one of the long sides of each electrode element.
A method of rebalancing electrolytes in a redox flow battery system comprises directing hydrogen gas generated on the negative side of the redox flow battery system to a catalyst surface, and fluidly contacting the hydrogen gas with an electrolyte comprising a metal ion at the catalyst surface, wherein the metal ion is chemically reduced by the hydrogen gas at the catalyst surface, and a state of charge of the electrolyte and pH of the electrolyte remain substantially balanced.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
37 - Construction and mining; installation and repair services
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Long duration energy storage batteries; flow batteries; batteries; grid scale and utility scale batteries; long-duration electrical storage, monitoring, and management system comprising battery cells, wiring, computer hardware peripheral equipment, communications servers, and downloadable software for controlling charging, discharging, and data management; modular battery systems and battery modules for storing electrical energy; electrical energy storage systems comprising battery cells, battery stacks, electrolytes, power electronics, electrical wiring, and control units; electrical apparatus and instruments for storing, managing, regulating, converting, and distributing electrical energy; power management equipment and power conditioning equipment for energy storage systems; battery management systems; electrical monitoring and control systems for charging, discharging, and managing energy storage systems; downloadable software for monitoring and controlling energy storage systems Installation, commissioning, maintenance, servicing, repair, upgrading, and replacement of energy storage systems and batteries; installation and maintenance of grid scale and utility scale energy storage facilities; maintenance and repair services for long duration energy storage systems; technical support services, namely, troubleshooting of energy storage systems and related electrical equipment; preventative maintenance in the field of long-duration energy storage systems, namely, scheduled inspections, routine servicing, and replacement of wear parts; corrective maintenance, namely, troubleshooting, repairs, restorations, or replacements to return the system to normal operating condition; remote monitoring services, namely, real-time monitoring and alerts, advanced data analytics, customizable reporting and dashboards, advanced visualizations, machine learning integration, comprehensive log management, and resource management Technical research in the field of battery technology; design and development of power storage apparatus, namely, batteries and components thereof; engineering services in the field of energy storage; design and engineering of energy storage systems, batteries, and power infrastructure; research and development of energy storage technologies and battery technologies; product design and development of flow batteries, iron flow batteries, and components thereof; software as a service (SaaS) featuring software for monitoring and managing energy storage systems; technical consulting in the fields of energy storage, renewable energy integration, grid infrastructure, and electrical power systems
4.
METHOD FOR PREPARATION OF IRON SALT BATTERY ELECTROLYTE
A method for preparation of an iron salt battery electrolyte comprises: supplying FeCl3 into an agitated reactor containing a dilute solution of HCl having a pH less than 1; supplying elemental iron into the reactor such that the elemental iron reacts with iron(III) to form iron(II); monitoring the pH of reactor solution; using the monitored pH to control supplying additional HCl into the reactor in order to maintain a pH of the reactor solution less than 1; and converting excess Fe3+ to Fe2+ in an electrochemical cell having a membrane or separator between an anode and cathode by directing the reactor solution from the reactor through the anode. A flow rate of the reactor solution through the anode is controlled to obtain a final Fe3+ concentration in the anode outlet FeCl2 stream of 15% or less than 15% of a total dissolved iron concentration as the iron salt battery electrolyte.
An all-iron redox flow battery comprising a first electrolyte tank configured to contain a first electrolyte solution and a second electrolyte tank configured to contain a second electrolyte solution; a flow cell comprising a negative flow half-cell configured for passing through first electrolyte solution and a positive flow half-cell configured for passing through second electrolyte solution; a third electrolyte tank, distinct from the first and second electrolyte tanks, configured to contain a third electrolyte solution, wherein the battery is configured to selectively provide fluid communication of the third electrolyte tank with at least one of the first electrolyte tank and the second electrolyte tank; and a rebalancing cell comprising a negative rebalancing half-cell and a positive rebalancing half-cell, wherein the negative rebalancing half-cell is configured to receive hydrogen gas from the first electrolyte tank and/or from a separate hydrogen source, and wherein the positive rebalancing half-cell is configured for passing through third electrolyte solution, whereby the rebalancing cell is configured to lower a pH of the third electrolyte solution.
Systems and methods are provided for recovering performance of rebalancing systems of a redox flow battery system. The method includes contacting a catalyst of the rebalancing system with a citrate solution. The citrate solution disperses a diffusion double layer from a surface of the catalyst.
Methods and systems are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery is adapted with an additive included in a battery electrolyte and an anion exchange membrane separator dividing positive electrolyte from negative electrolyte. An overall system cost of the battery system may be reduced while a storage capacity, energy density and performance may be increased.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 4/36 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids
H01M 4/58 - Selection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of inorganic compounds other than oxides or hydroxides, e.g. sulfides, selenides, tellurides, halogenides or LiCoFySelection of substances as active materials, active masses, active liquids of polyanionic structures, e.g. phosphates, silicates or borates
Systems and methods are provided for a cell of a redox flow battery system. The electrode cell includes a membrane frame assembly, a bipolar plate frame assembly, and a thermal weld positioned between the membrane frame assembly and the bipolar plate frame assembly. The thermal weld includes material from a frame of the membrane frame assembly and a frame of the bipolar plate frame assembly.
Systems and methods are provided for a cell of a redox flow battery system. The electrode cell includes a membrane frame assembly, a bipolar plate frame assembly, and a thermal weld positioned between the membrane frame assembly and the bipolar plate frame assembly. The thermal weld includes material from a frame of the membrane frame assembly and a frame of the bipolar plate frame assembly.
H01M 8/0273 - Sealing or supporting means around electrodes, matrices or membranes with sealing or supporting means in the form of a frame
H01M 8/026 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant characterised by grooves, e.g. their pitch or depth
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
A method for a redox flow battery system may include flowing an electrolyte from an electrolyte storage tank to a multi-stage rebalancing reactor, the multi-stage rebalancing reactor comprising reactor vessels grouped to form stages. Hydrogen gas may be injected into the electrolyte upstream of the multi-stage rebalancing reactor via a gas line and a metal ion of the electrolyte may be chemically reduced by oxidizing the hydrogen gas at a catalyst bed of each of the reactor vessels to maintain a charge balance of the electrolyte and a pH of the electrolyte within a predetermined range.
Methods and systems are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system has a first redox flow battery and a second redox flow battery, stacked above and in contact with the first redox flow battery along a vertical axis of the redox flow battery system. The second redox flow battery may be coupled to the first redox flow battery via nesting detents. Furthermore, operation of the first redox flow battery and the second redox flow battery may be adjustable according to a power demand.
A method of cleansing a redox flow battery system may include operating the redox flow battery system in a charge, discharge, or idle mode, and responsive to a redox flow battery capacity being less than a threshold battery capacity, mixing the positive electrolyte with the negative electrolyte. In this way, battery capacity degradation following cyclic charging and discharging of the redox flow battery system can be substantially reduced.
A multi-chambered electrolyte storage tank for a redox flow battery system, may include first and second electrolyte chambers, and a bulkhead, wherein the first and second electrolyte chambers are fluidly coupled to first and second sides of a redox flow battery cell, respectively, the first and second electrolyte chambers include first and second liquid electrolyte volumes, respectively, and the first and second liquid electrolyte volumes are separated by the bulkhead positioned therebetween. In this way, manufacturing and operational complexity of a redox flow battery system can be reduced.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an electrolyte storage tank having a first chamber and a second chamber, and a mixing valve fluidically coupling the first chamber to the second chamber. The mixing valve may be selectively opened according to predetermined duty cycles to allow exchange of electrolyte between the first chamber and the second chamber.
Methods and systems are provided for a rebalancing reactor of a flow battery system. In one example, a pH of a battery electrolyte may be maintained by the rebalancing reactor by applying a negative potential to a catalyst bed of the rebalancing reactor. A performance of the rebalancing reactor may further be maintained by treating the catalyst bed with deionized water.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an electrolyte storage tank having a first chamber and a second chamber, and a mixing valve fluidically coupling the first chamber to the second chamber. The mixing valve may be selectively opened according to predetermined duty cycles to allow exchange of electrolyte between the first chamber and the second chamber.
Membranes for flow battery cells are provided herein. In one example, a membrane for a flow battery system includes a microporous substrate having a first surface and a second surface, opposite the first surface, and a coating of ion-conducting polymer on the first surface and the second surface, wherein one or more pores of the microporous substrate are at least partially filled with the ion-conducting polymer.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/1053 - Polymer electrolyte composites, mixtures or blends consisting of layers of polymers with at least one layer being ionically conductive
H01M 8/106 - Polymeric electrolyte materials characterised by a porous support having no ion-conducting properties characterised by the chemical composition of the porous support
H01M 8/1062 - Polymeric electrolyte materials characterised by a porous support having no ion-conducting properties characterised by the physical properties of the porous support, e.g. its porosity or thickness
H01M 8/1081 - Polymeric electrolyte materials characterised by the manufacturing processes starting from solutions, dispersions or slurries exclusively of polymers
H01M 8/1086 - After-treatment of the membrane other than by polymerisation
19.
COMPOSITE ION-EXCHANGE MEMBRANES FOR FLOW BATTERIES
Membranes for flow battery cells are provided herein. In one example, a membrane for a flow battery system includes a microporous substrate having a first surface and a second surface, opposite the first surface, and a coating of ion-conducting polymer on the first surface and the second surface, wherein one or more pores of the microporous substrate are at least partially filled with the ion-conducting polymer.
H01M 8/106 - Polymeric electrolyte materials characterised by a porous support having no ion-conducting properties characterised by the chemical composition of the porous support
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell including an anode side through which a reductant is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, and a catalyst bed fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell, the catalyst bed including a substrate layer and a catalyst layer spiral wound into a jelly roll structure. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte includes a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state, and power is generated at the hybrid redox fuel cell by way of reducing the metal ion from the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side.
Systems and methods are provided for rebalancing electrolytes of a redox flow battery system. The redox flow battery system includes a positive electrolyte, a negative electrolyte, and a battery stack configured to receive the positive and negative electrolytes. Additionally, the battery stack includes an internal rebalancing reactor positioned internal to the battery stack and in fluid contact with the negative electrolyte.
Systems and methods are provided for an electrode assembly. In one example, the electrode assembly includes a bipolar plate and a negative electrode spacer fixedly coupled to a surface of the bipolar plate. The negative electrode spacer may comprise an array of discrete structures protruding from the surface of the bipolar plate.
H01M 8/0252 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form tubular
H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
Systems and methods are provided for an electrode assembly. In one example, the electrode assembly includes a bipolar plate and a negative electrode spacer fixedly coupled to a surface of the bipolar plate. The negative electrode spacer may comprise an array of discrete structures protruding from the surface of the bipolar plate.
Systems and methods are provided for rebalancing electrolytes of a redox flow battery system. The redox flow battery system includes a positive electrolyte, a negative electrolyte, and a battery stack configured to receive the positive and negative electrolytes. Additionally, the battery stack includes an internal rebalancing reactor positioned internal to the battery stack and in fluid contact with the negative electrolyte.
Systems and methods are provided for an external electromagnetic mixing system. The external electromagnetic mixing system includes a plurality of electromagnetics spaced externally around a production tank which contains a liquid and a ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic solid. The plurality of electromagnets are configured to move the ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic solid within the liquid.
Systems and methods are provided for maintaining electrolyte health of a redox flow battery system. The redox flow battery system comprising a redox flow battery cell having a positive electrode compartment and a negative electrolyte compartment, an electrolyte storage tank storing positive and negative electrolyte, the positive and negative electrolyte circulated between the electrolyte storage tank and respective positive and negative electrode compartments. The redox flow battery system further comprises a rebalancing battery including a positive electrode arranged in a flow path of the positive electrolyte and a negative electrode arranged in a flow path of the negative electrolyte.
Systems and methods are provided for maintaining electrolyte health of a redox flow battery system. The redox flow battery system comprising a redox flow battery cell having a positive electrode compartment and a negative electrolyte compartment, an electrolyte storage tank storing positive and negative electrolyte, the positive and negative electrolyte circulated between the electrolyte storage tank and respective positive and negative electrode compartments. The redox flow battery system further comprises a rebalancing battery including a positive electrode arranged in a flow path of the positive electrolyte and a negative electrode arranged in a flow path of the negative electrolyte.
Systems and methods are provided for an external electromagnetic mixing system. The external electromagnetic mixing system includes a plurality of electromagnetics spaced externally around a production tank which contains a liquid and a ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic solid. The plurality of electromagnets are configured to move the ferromagnetic and/or ferrimagnetic solid within the liquid.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an electrolyte sump tank positioned below cell stacks of the redox flow battery system. The electrolyte sump tank may be configured to receive electrolyte from the cell stacks during operation of the redox flow battery system in a stand-by mode. The redox flow battery system may further include three-way valves arranged in a flow path of the electrolyte between the cell stacks and the electrolyte sump tank to control a flow of the electrolyte to the electrolyte sump tank.
H01M 8/04276 - Arrangements for managing the electrolyte stream, e.g. heat exchange
F16K 11/00 - Multiple-way valves, e.g. mixing valvesPipe fittings incorporating such valvesArrangement of valves and flow lines specially adapted for mixing fluid
Systems and methods are provided for surface pretreatment of a bipolar plate for a battery system. In one example, a method for pretreating the bipolar plate includes extruding a material of the bipolar plate and irradiating a surface of the bipolar plate with a laser beam to etch a pattern into the surface. The method may further includes assembling the bipolar plate into a power module of the battery system.
H01M 8/026 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant characterised by grooves, e.g. their pitch or depth
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
Systems and methods are provided for surface pretreatment of a bipolar plate for a battery system. In one example, a method for pretreating the bipolar plate includes extruding a material of the bipolar plate and irradiating a surface of the bipolar plate with a laser beam to etch a pattern into the surface. The method may further includes assembling the bipolar plate into a power module of the battery system.
H01M 8/0202 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
Systems and methods are provided for actively directing hydrogen flow in an electrochemical cell system. The electrochemical cell system includes a component configured to receive hydrogen gas, one or more hydrogen blower assemblies positioned upstream and/or downstream of the component. The one or more hydrogen blowers include at least one sensor positioned on an outer surface of the one or more hydrogen blower assemblies and a controller including instructions to generate a notification in response to an output of the at least one sensor being outside of a target range.
Systems and methods are provided for actively directing hydrogen flow in an electrochemical cell system. The electrochemical cell system includes a component configured to receive hydrogen gas, one or more hydrogen blower assemblies positioned upstream and/or downstream of the component. The one or more hydrogen blowers include at least one sensor positioned on an outer surface of the one or more hydrogen blower assemblies and a controller including instructions to generate a notification in response to an output of the at least one sensor being outside of a target range.
H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
H01M 8/04313 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems characterised by the detection or assessment of variablesProcesses for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems characterised by the detection or assessment of failure or abnormal function
Systems and methods are provided for actively directing hydrogen flow in an electrochemical cell system. The electrochemical cell system includes a component configured to receive hydrogen gas, one or more hydrogen blower assemblies positioned upstream and/or downstream of the component. The one or more hydrogen blowers include at least one sensor positioned on an outer surface of the one or more hydrogen blower assemblies and a controller including instructions to generate a notification in response to an output of the at least one sensor being outside of a target range.
Systems and methods are provided for rebalancing cells in a redox flow battery. In one example, a method of operating a rebalancing cell in a redox flow battery system includes measuring a state-of-charge (SOC) of a redox flow battery in the redox flow battery system, calculating an electrolyte concentration from the measured SOC of the redox flow battery, and maintaining a rebalancing reaction rate at the rebalancing cell. In one example, maintaining the rebalancing includes, responsive to a change in the electrolyte concentration, adjusting an electrolyte flow rate to the rebalancing cell and adjusting a hydrogen flow rate to the rebalancing cell.
Systems and methods are provided for actively directing hydrogen flow in an electrochemical cell system. The electrochemical cell system includes a component configured to receive hydrogen gas, one or more hydrogen blower assemblies positioned upstream and/or downstream of the component. The one or more hydrogen blowers include at least one sensor positioned on an outer surface of the one or more hydrogen blower assemblies and a controller including instructions to generate a notification in response to an output of the at least one sensor being outside of a target range.
Systems and methods are provided for an electrode assembly. In one example, a method for fabricating the electrode assembly includes co-extruding a first layer, comprising a conductive thermoplastic, with a second layer, comprising a nonconductive thermoplastic, to form a stack. The stack may be pressed between a set of rollers and cooled to provide a bipolar plate with an integrated negative electrode spacer bonded to a surface of the bipolar plate.
H01M 8/0267 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors having heating or cooling means, e.g. heaters or coolant flow channels
H01M 50/489 - Separators, membranes, diaphragms or spacing elements inside the cells, characterised by their physical properties, e.g. swelling degree, hydrophilicity or shut down properties
Systems and methods are provided for an electrode assembly. In one example, a method for fabricating the electrode assembly includes co-extruding a first layer, comprising a conductive thermoplastic, with a second layer, comprising a nonconductive thermoplastic, to form a stack. The stack may be pressed between a set of rollers and cooled to provide a bipolar plate with an integrated negative electrode spacer bonded to a surface of the bipolar plate.
H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
Systems and methods are provided for electrolyte health management in a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an injector arranged inside of an electrolyte tank. The injector may be configured to entrain a gas into electrolyte flowing from an inlet of the injector to an outlet of the injector.
Systems and methods are provided for electrolyte health management in a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an injector arranged inside of an electrolyte tank. The injector may be configured to entrain a gas into electrolyte flowing from an inlet of the injector to an outlet of the injector.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/22 - Fuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising carbon or oxygen or hydrogen and other elementsFuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising only elements other than carbon, oxygen or hydrogen
H01M 50/35 - Gas exhaust passages comprising elongated, tortuous or labyrinth-shaped exhaust passages
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow batter system comprising a cylindrical electrolyte chamber fluidly coupled to a redox flow battery cell and at least one radial mixing manifold fluidly coupled to the cylindrical electrolyte chamber. The radial mixing manifold includes a flange configured to receive electrolyte from the redox flow battery cell and a manifold configured to mix and distribute the electrolyte within the cylindrical electrolyte chamber. The manifold includes a plurality of openings, at least one of which is a bottom opening, and extends from a first inner edge of the cylindrical electrolyte chamber to a second inner edge, lower than the first inner edge, of the cylindrical electrolyte chamber.
Systems and methods are provided for operating a battery power module. In one example, the method may include constraining an electrical parameter of the battery power module to be constant among a plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module and determining current setpoints for each of the plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module based on an estimated overpotential of each of the plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module.
H01M 8/04992 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems characterised by the implementation of mathematical or computational algorithms, e.g. feedback control loops, fuzzy logic, neural networks or artificial intelligence
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
Systems and methods are provided for operating a battery power module. In one example, the method may include constraining an electrical parameter of the battery power module to be constant among a plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module and determining current setpoints for each of the plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module based on an estimated overpotential of each of the plurality of battery stacks of the battery power module.
A method for a redox flow battery may include, interrupting cycling of the redox flow battery, including charging the redox flow battery to a threshold charge condition, draining positive and negative electrolyte from the redox flow battery, circulating a wash solution through the redox flow battery, and returning the positive and negative electrolyte to the redox flow battery, and resuming cycling of the redox flow battery. In this way, contamination of the redox flow battery system can be reduced, thereby prolonging the life and increasing performance of the redox flow battery system.
Systems and methods are provided for an energy storage system. In one example, the energy storage system comprises a first tube configured to flow an electrolyte solution to a pump, a second tube extending through the first tube, the second tube hermetically sealed from an interior of the first tube, and a wire wound within the second tube configured to generate a magnetic field.
Systems and methods are provided for a non-contact level sensor system for a liquid tank. The non-contact level sensor system includes a non-contact level sensor positioned above a maximum level of liquid in the liquid tank, a float configured to float on a surface of the liquid and reflect and/or scatter energy emitted by the non-contact level sensor. The position of the float in a plane perpendicular to the energy emitted by the non-contact level sensor is confined within a housing, and the vertical distance between the float and the non-contact level sensor is related to an amount of liquid inside the liquid tank.
G01F 23/28 - Indicating or measuring liquid level or level of fluent solid material, e.g. indicating in terms of volume or indicating by means of an alarm by measuring physical variables, other than linear dimensions, pressure or weight, dependent on the level to be measured, e.g. by difference of heat transfer of steam or water by measuring the variations of parameters of electromagnetic or acoustic waves applied directly to the liquid or fluent solid material
Systems and methods are provided for an energy storage system. In one example, the energy storage system comprises a first tube configured to flow an electrolyte solution to a pump, a second tube extending through the first tube, the second tube hermetically sealed from an interior of the first tube, and a wire wound within the second tube configured to generate a magnetic field.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes an electrolyte sump tank positioned below cell stacks of the redox flow battery system. The electrolyte sump tank may be configured to receive electrolyte from the cell stacks during operation of the redox flow battery system in a stand-by mode. The redox flow battery system may further include three-way valves arranged in a flow path of the electrolyte between the cell stacks and the electrolyte sump tank to control a flow of the electrolyte to the electrolyte sump tank.
Systems and methods are provided for pumping hydrogen within an electrochemical cell system. In one example, a liquid driven hydrogen pump includes an impeller positioned within a flow path of a gas, and a turbine coupled to the impeller by a shaft and positioned within a flow path of a liquid. A flow of the liquid is driven by a liquid pump based on operation of the electrochemical cell system and the flow of the liquid across the turbine drives rotation of the impeller and an increase in a flow of the gas.
Systems and methods are provided for pumping hydrogen within an electrochemical cell system. In one example, a liquid driven hydrogen pump includes an impeller positioned within a flow path of a gas, and a turbine coupled to the impeller by a shaft and positioned within a flow path of a liquid. A flow of the liquid is driven by a liquid pump based on operation of the electrochemical cell system and the flow of the liquid across the turbine drives rotation of the impeller and an increase in a flow of the gas.
A method of rebalancing electrolytes in a redox flow battery system comprises directing hydrogen gas generated on the negative side of the redox flow battery system to a catalyst surface, and fluidly contacting the hydrogen gas with an electrolyte comprising a metal ion at the catalyst surface, wherein the metal ion is chemically reduced by the hydrogen gas at the catalyst surface, and a state of charge of the electrolyte and pH of the electrolyte remain substantially balanced.
Systems and methods are provided for rebalancing cells in a redox flow battery. In one example, a rebalancing cell system includes a first rebalancing cell in series fluidic communication with a second rebalancing cell and a hydrogen source, the first rebalancing cell includes a first electrode assembly stack with hydrogen flow paths extending therethrough and having a higher pressure than an electrolyte in the first electrode assembly stack. Further, the second rebalancing cell includes a second electrode assembly stack with hydrogen flow paths that extend therethrough and have a higher pressure than an electrolyte in the second electrode assembly stack.
Systems and methods are provided for rebalancing cells in a redox flow battery. In one example, a rebalancing cell system includes a first rebalancing cell in series fluidic communication with a second rebalancing cell and a hydrogen source, the first rebalancing cell includes a first electrode assembly stack with hydrogen flow paths extending therethrough and having a higher pressure than an electrolyte in the first electrode assembly stack. Further, the second rebalancing cell includes a second electrode assembly stack with hydrogen flow paths that extend therethrough and have a higher pressure than an electrolyte in the second electrode assembly stack.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/22 - Fuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising carbon or oxygen or hydrogen and other elementsFuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising only elements other than carbon, oxygen or hydrogen
Systems and methods for operating an electric energy storage device are described. The systems and methods may reduce a voltage potential between a ground reference and terminals of an electric energy storage device. By lowering the voltage potential, a possibility of unintentionally discharging the electrical energy storage device to ground may be reduced.
Systems and methods are provided for managing health of electrolytes of redox flow battery system. Components of the system may include a redox rebalancing cells and a gas storage system. The redox rebalancing cell may be operated by plating iron on a plating electrode, treating a negative electrolyte of the redox flow battery system with the plated iron and returning the negative electrolyte to an electrolyte tank. The gas storage system may include a set of expandable gas storage tanks coupled to at least one electrolyte storage tank and an electrolyte rebalancing system of the redox flow battery system.
Systems and methods are provided for managing health of electrolytes of redox flow battery system. Components of the system may include a redox rebalancing cells and a gas storage system. The redox rebalancing cell may be operated by plating iron on a plating electrode, treating a negative electrolyte of the redox flow battery system with the plated iron and returning the negative electrolyte to an electrolyte tank. The gas storage system may include a set of expandable gas storage tanks coupled to at least one electrolyte storage tank and an electrolyte rebalancing system of the redox flow battery system.
Systems and methods are provided for managing health of electrolytes of redox flow battery system. Components of the system may include a redox rebalancing cells and a gas storage system. The redox rebalancing cell may be operated by plating iron on a plating electrode, treating a negative electrolyte of the redox flow battery system with the plated iron and returning the negative electrolyte to an electrolyte tank. The gas storage system may include a set of expandable gas storage tanks coupled to at least one electrolyte storage tank and an electrolyte rebalancing system of the redox flow battery system.
Systems and methods are provided for managing health of electrolytes of redox flow battery system. Components of the system may include a redox rebalancing cells and a gas storage system. The redox rebalancing cell may be operated by plating iron on a plating electrode, treating a negative electrolyte of the redox flow battery system with the plated iron and returning the negative electrolyte to an electrolyte tank. The gas storage system may include a set of expandable gas storage tanks coupled to at least one electrolyte storage tank and an electrolyte rebalancing system of the redox flow battery system.
A redox flow battery may include: a membrane interposed between a first electrode positioned at a first side of the membrane and a second electrode positioned at a second side of the membrane opposite to the first side; a first flow field plate comprising a plurality of positive flow field ribs, each of the plurality of positive flow field ribs contacting the first electrode at first supporting regions on the first side; and the second electrode, including an electrode spacer positioned between the membrane and a second flow field plate, the electrode spacer comprising a plurality of main ribs, each of the plurality of main ribs contacting the second flow field plate at second supporting regions on the second side, each of the second supporting regions aligned opposite to one of the plurality of first supporting regions. As such, a current density distribution at a plating surface may be reduced.
H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
Systems and methods are provided for an electrolyte for a flow battery comprising a redox active species and a plurality of supporting salts dissolved in the electrolyte. The redox active species having a concentration greater than 2.0 M and the plurality of dissolved supporting salts comprising a potassium salt, and ammonium salt, a calcium salt, and a manganese salt.
Systems and methods are provided for assembling and operating an electrode assembly for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the electrode assembly may include an inflatable housing in which a negative electrode spacer and a positive electrode may be positioned, wherein the inflatable housing may inflate responsive to applied internal pressure during operation of the redox flow battery system. In some examples, the electrode assembly may be assembled via roll-to-roll processing and may be mechanically and fluidically coupled to electrode assemblies of like configuration. In this way, tolerance stacking may be decreased, processing may be simplified, and costs may be reduced relative to molding-based processes for electrode assembly manufacturing.
Systems and methods are provided for an electrolyte for a flow battery comprising a redox active species and a plurality of supporting salts dissolved in the electrolyte. The redox active species having a concentration greater than 2.0 M and the plurality of dissolved supporting salts comprising a potassium salt, and ammonium salt, a calcium salt, and a manganese salt.
A rebalancing reactor for a redox flow battery system may include a first side through which hydrogen gas is flowed, a second side through which electrolyte from the redox flow battery system is flowed, and a porous layer separating and fluidly coupled to the first side and the second side, wherein, the hydrogen gas and the electrolyte are fluidly contacted at a surface of the porous layer, and a pressure drop across the second side is less than a pressure drop across the porous layer. In this way, rebalancing of electrolyte charges in a redox flow battery system may be performed with increased efficiency and cost effectiveness as compared to conventional rebalancing reactors.
Methods and systems are provided for manufacturing a membrane separator for a redox flow battery. In one example, the membrane separator is fabricate by a calendering process. The membrane separator may be configured with a polymer network to provide selectivity for ion transport across the membrane separator. The membrane separator may be further adapted with an integrated spacer in contact with a negative electrolyte.
Methods and systems are provided for a rebalancing reactor of a flow battery system. In one example, a pH of a battery electrolyte may be maintained by the rebalancing reactor by applying a negative potential to a catalyst bed of the rebalancing reactor. A performance of the rebalancing reactor may further be maintained by treating the catalyst bed with deionized water.
Systems and methods are provided for electrochemical and/or chemical pretreatment of bipolar plates, for example, for plating electrodes in redox flow batteries. In one example, a method may include pretreating a bipolar plate for the redox flow battery by disrupting a surface of the bipolar plate. In some examples, pretreating the bipolar plate may include positioning the bipolar plate within the redox flow battery, and thereafter charging the redox flow battery at multiple discrete plating current densities for each of one or more initial charging cycles to electrochemically etch the surface. In additional or alternative examples, pretreating the bipolar plate may include soaking the bipolar plate in solution to chemically treat the surface. In this way, the bipolar plate may be pretreated via electrochemical etching and/or chemical treatment so as to reduce electrochemical performance losses and dendrite formation in the redox flow battery.
Methods and systems are provided for iron preformation in a redox flow battery. In one example, a method may include, in a first condition, discharging and then charging the redox flow battery, and in a second condition, charging the redox flow battery including preforming iron metal at a negative electrode of the redox flow battery, and thereafter entering an idle mode of the redox flow battery including adjusting one or more electrolyte conditions. In some examples, each of preforming the iron metal and adjusting the one or more electrolyte conditions may increase a battery charge capacity to greater than a threshold battery charge capacity.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method of operating a redox flow battery includes charging the redox flow battery, including supplying a pulsed power signal to the redox flow battery in response to the redox flow battery state of charge (SOC) decreasing below a lower threshold redox flow battery SOC, wherein supplying the pulsed power signal includes supplying a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) charging voltage signal to the redox flow battery, the PWM charging voltage signal fluctuating between an upper threshold charging voltage and an open circuit voltage (OCV).
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method of operating a redox flow battery includes charging the redox flow battery, including supplying a pulsed power signal to the redox flow battery in response to the redox flow battery state of charge (SOC) decreasing below a lower threshold redox flow battery SOC, wherein supplying the pulsed power signal includes supplying a pulse-width-modulated (PWM) charging voltage signal to the redox flow battery, the PWM charging voltage signal fluctuating between an upper threshold charging voltage and an open circuit voltage (OCV).
A redox flow battery and battery system are provided. In one example, the redox flow battery includes a cell stack assembly interposed by two endplates and comprising a plurality of mated membrane frame plates and bipolar frame plates forming, at a mated interface, a plurality of negative and positive flow channels configured to distribute negative and positive electrolyte into a plurality of bipolar plates. In the battery a membrane is coupled to each of the plurality of membrane frame plates and positioned sequentially between two of the bipolar plates included in the plurality of bipolar plates.
Methods and systems are provided for manufacturing a bipolar plate for a redox flow battery. In one example, the bipolar plate is fabricated by a roll-to-roll process. The bipolar plate includes a non-conductive substrate that is coupled to a negative electrode on a first surface and coupled to a positive electrode on a second surface, the first surface opposite of the second surface.
Methods and systems are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes a cell stack compressed between terminal structures defining ends of the redox flow battery. The cell stack may be formed of a plurality of cells where each cell includes a deformable positive electrode in contact with a first face of a membrane separator and a negative electrode configured to be less compressible than the positive electrode and arranged at a second face of the membrane separator.
Methods and systems are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, a method of operating a redox flow battery system includes, responsive to switching the redox flow battery system to an idle mode, initiating a first timer monitoring a first threshold period of time. An electrolyte pump may be activated when the first threshold period of time elapses, the electrolyte pump driving circulation of electrolytes through one or more electrode compartments.
H01M 8/04276 - Arrangements for managing the electrolyte stream, e.g. heat exchange
H01M 8/04298 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/04119 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants with simultaneous supply or evacuation of electrolyteHumidifying or dehumidifying
74.
METHODS AND SYSTEM FOR REDOX FLOW BATTERY IDLE STATE
Methods and systems are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes a power module, an electrolyte pump, and a power control system. The power control system may include instructions to switch the redox flow battery system to an idle mode, activate an electrolyte pump when a first threshold period of time elapses, deactivate the electrolyte pump when a second threshold period of time elapses, and drain, purge, and refill one or more electrode compartments when a third threshold period of time elapses.
H01M 8/04276 - Arrangements for managing the electrolyte stream, e.g. heat exchange
H01M 8/04298 - Processes for controlling fuel cells or fuel cell systems
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/04119 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants with simultaneous supply or evacuation of electrolyteHumidifying or dehumidifying
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method for the redox flow battery includes operating the redox flow battery in a short-term idle mode by discharging the redox flow battery at a constant current density over a duration of the short-term idle mode. By discharging the current density, a plated surface at a negative electrode of the redox flow battery may be maintained.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method for the redox flow battery includes operating the redox flow battery in a short-term idle mode by discharging a current density as a pulse of a duration shorter than a duration of the short term idle mode. By discharging the current density, a plating surface at a negative electrode of the redox flow battery system may be maintained.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes one or more redox flow battery cells, a rebalancing cell receiving electrolyte from the one or more redox flow battery cells and catalyzing hydrogen reduction of metal cations in the electrolyte, and a conductive coupler connecting the rebalancing cell to an external voltage source. The conductive coupler enables application of an ion-repelling potential to a stack of electrode assemblies of the rebalancing cell during operation of the redox flow battery system.
A redox flow battery and battery system are provided. In one example, the redox flow battery includes a cell stack assembly having a plate assembly positioned on a lateral side of the cell stack assembly and comprising an elastic flange including a recess mated with a section of a conductive plate and compliant in at least one of a lateral direction and a vertical direction, and a plate frame coupled to the elastic flange.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/0247 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the form
H01M 8/242 - Grouping of fuel cells, e.g. stacking of fuel cells with solid or matrix-supported electrolytes comprising framed electrodes or intermediary frame-like gaskets
H01M 8/248 - Means for compression of the fuel cell stacks
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, the redox flow battery includes a bipolar plate assembly including a bipolar plate formed of a thermoplastic composite material. The thermoplastic composite material of the bipolar plate allows the bipolar plate to be directly bonded to a dielectric frame of the bipolar plate assembly, thereby simplifying a manufacturing process of the bipolar plate assembly.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, the redox flow battery includes a bipolar plate assembly including a bipolar plate formed of a thermoplastic composite material. The thermoplastic composite material of the bipolar plate allows the bipolar plate to be directly bonded to a dielectric frame of the bipolar plate assembly, thereby simplifying a manufacturing process of the bipolar plate assembly.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system includes one or more redox flow battery cells, a rebalancing cell receiving electrolyte from the one or more redox flow battery cells and catalyzing hydrogen reduction of metal cations in the electrolyte, and a conductive coupler connecting the rebalancing cell to an external voltage source. The conductive coupler enables application of an ion-repelling potential to a stack of electrode assemblies of the rebalancing cell during operation of the redox flow battery system.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/04186 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of liquid-charged or electrolyte-charged reactants
H01M 8/04082 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration
H01M 8/04276 - Arrangements for managing the electrolyte stream, e.g. heat exchange
H01M 16/00 - Structural combinations of different types of electrochemical generators
H01M 8/0656 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues with means for production of gaseous reactants by electrochemical means
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method for the redox flow battery includes operating the redox flow battery in a short-term idle mode by discharging the redox flow battery at a constant current density over a duration of the short-term idle mode. By discharging the current density, a plated surface at a negative electrode of the redox flow battery may be maintained.
Systems and methods are provided for a redox flow battery. In one example, a method for the redox flow battery includes operating the redox flow battery in a short-term idle mode by discharging a current density as a pulse of a duration shorter than a duration of the short term idle mode. By discharging the current density, a plating surface at a negative electrode of the redox flow battery system may be maintained.
Systems and methods for operating an electric energy storage device are described. The systems and methods may generate a state of charge estimate that is based on negative electrode plating. An overall state of charge may be determined from the state of charge estimate that is based on negative electrode plating and a state of charge estimate that is not based on negative electrode plating.
Methods and systems are provided for transporting and hydrating a redox flow battery system with a portable field hydration system. In one example, the redox flow battery system may be hydrated with the portable field hydration system in a dry state, in the absence of liquids. In this way, a redox flow battery system may be assembled and transported from a battery manufacturing facility to an end-use location off-site while the redox flow battery system is in the dry state, thereby reducing shipping costs, design complexities, as well as logistical and environmental concerns.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/04276 - Arrangements for managing the electrolyte stream, e.g. heat exchange
H01M 8/04119 - Arrangements for control of reactant parameters, e.g. pressure or concentration of gaseous reactants with simultaneous supply or evacuation of electrolyteHumidifying or dehumidifying
H01M 4/86 - Inert electrodes with catalytic activity, e.g. for fuel cells
H01M 8/04225 - Auxiliary arrangements, e.g. for control of pressure or for circulation of fluids during start-up or shut-downDepolarisation or activation, e.g. purgingMeans for short-circuiting defective fuel cells during start-up
H01M 50/60 - Arrangements or processes for filling or topping-up with liquidsArrangements or processes for draining liquids from casings
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
39 - Transport, packaging, storage and travel services
Goods & Services
Battery chargers; Electrical batteries. Storage of electricity; Electricity storage; Distribution of energy; Distribution of renewable energy; Transportation and storage.
87.
Methods and systems for managing energy consumption of cryptocurrency mining
Systems and methods are provided for managing an energy storage system. In one example, a method may include directing energy stored in the energy storage system to a cryptocurrency mining system and another consumer responsive to conditions. Other consumers may include a third party consumer of energy and conditions may include current and predicted cryptocurrency values and current and predicted availability of cyclically available renewable energy.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell and an electrochemical cell. The hybrid redox fuel cell includes an anode side through which hydrogen is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, the liquid electrolyte including a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state. An anode side of the electrochemical cell is fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell. At the hybrid redox fuel cell, power is generated by reducing the metal ion at the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side. At the anode side of the electrochemical cell, the metal ion at the lower oxidation state is oxidized to the higher oxidation state while the power is generated.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell including an anode side through which a reductant is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, and a catalyst bed fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell, the catalyst bed including a substrate layer and a catalyst layer spiral wound into a jelly roll structure. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte includes a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state, and power is generated at the hybrid redox fuel cell by way of reducing the metal ion from the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side.
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
42 - Scientific, technological and industrial services, research and design
Goods & Services
Batteries; electric batteries; electrical storage batteries;
long-duration electrical storage, monitoring and management
system comprising electric battery cells, electrical wiring
in the nature of electrical cables, computer hardware
peripheral equipment, communications servers, and
downloadable software for controlling charging, discharging
and data management, and electronic monitoring and control
systems comprised of the engineering terminal and customer
dashboard for controlling charging, discharging and data
management. Technical research in the field of battery technology;
design and development of power storage apparatus, namely,
batteries and components thereof and accessories;
consultancy services in connection with the design and
development of power storage apparatus for others, namely,
batteries and components thereof and accessories;
technological consulting services relating to the
manufacture of batteries, battery components and
accessories; design of manufacturing apparatus,
installations and machines for the manufacture of batteries,
battery components and accessories for others.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell and an electrochemical cell. The hybrid redox fuel cell includes an anode side through which hydrogen is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, the liquid electrolyte including a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state. An anode side of the electrochemical cell is fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell. At the hybrid redox fuel cell, power is generated by reducing the metal ion at the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side. At the anode side of the electrochemical cell, the metal ion at the lower oxidation state is oxidized to the higher oxidation state while the power is generated.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell including an anode side through which a reductant is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, and a trickle bed reactor including a catalyst bed fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte includes a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state, and power is generated at the hybrid redox fuel cell by way of reducing the metal ion at the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell including an anode side through which a reductant is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, and a catalyst bed fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell, the catalyst bed including a substrate layer and a catalyst layer spiral wound into a jelly roll structure. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte includes a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state, and power is generated at the hybrid redox fuel cell by way of reducing the metal ion from the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side.
A hybrid redox fuel cell system includes a hybrid redox fuel cell including an anode side through which a reductant is flowed and a cathode side through which liquid electrolyte is flowed, and a trickle bed reactor including a catalyst bed fluidly connected to the cathode side of the hybrid redox fuel cell. Furthermore, the liquid electrolyte includes a metal ion at a higher oxidation state and the metal ion at a lower oxidation state, and power is generated at the hybrid redox fuel cell by way of reducing the metal ion at the higher oxidation state to the lower oxidation state at the cathode side while oxidizing the reductant at the anode side.
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
H01M 8/06 - Combination of fuel cells with means for production of reactants or for treatment of residues
H01M 8/22 - Fuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising carbon or oxygen or hydrogen and other elementsFuel cells in which the fuel is based on materials comprising only elements other than carbon, oxygen or hydrogen
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Long-duration large format power storage batteries over 20
kW power; long-duration electrical storage, monitoring and
management system comprising electric battery cells,
electrical wiring, computer hardware peripheral equipment,
communications servers, and software and electronic
monitoring and control systems for controlling charging,
discharging and data management; large format batteries for
long-duration storage applications having over 20 kW power.
96.
Methods and systems for surface disruption of bipolar plate and subsequent use thereof in redox flow battery
Systems and methods are provided for mechanical pretreatment of bipolar plates, for example, for plating electrodes in redox flow batteries. In one example, a method for disrupting surfaces of a bipolar plate may include pressing the bipolar plate between imprint plates, and removing the pressed bipolar plate from the imprint plates prior to use in a redox flow battery. In some examples, the pressed bipolar plate may include negative indentations from at least one of the imprint plates. In some examples, the imprint plates may be patterned meshes, such that the negative indentations may include patterns of asymmetric protrusions. In this way, the bipolar plate may be pretreated via pressing so as to reduce wear to manufacturing equipment (relative to other mechanical pretreatment processes, for example) while maintaining electrochemical performance of the redox flow battery.
Systems and methods are provided for electrolyte distribution, rebalancing, and storage in a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system may include a plurality of redox flow battery cells and a plurality of storage tanks respectively fluidically coupled thereto, wherein a gauge pressure in each of the plurality of storage tanks may be maintained below a relatively low pressure (for example, below 2 psi). In some examples, the redox flow battery system may further include a plurality of rebalancing cells respectively fluidically coupled to the plurality of storage tanks, each of the plurality of rebalancing cells including a stack of internally shorted electrode assemblies. In this way, the redox flow battery system may be operated at less than the relatively low pressure, such that multiple space effective (for example, prismatic and relatively small) storage tanks may be included.
Systems and methods are provided for mechanical pretreatment of bipolar plates, for example, for plating electrodes in redox flow batteries. In one example, a method for disrupting surfaces of a bipolar plate may include pressing the bipolar plate between imprint plates, and removing the pressed bipolar plate from the imprint plates prior to use in a redox flow battery. In some examples, the pressed bipolar plate may include negative indentations from at least one of the imprint plates. In some examples, the imprint plates may be patterned meshes, such that the negative indentations may include patterns of asymmetric protrusions. In this way, the bipolar plate may be pretreated via pressing so as to reduce wear to manufacturing equipment (relative to other mechanical pretreatment processes, for example) while maintaining electrochemical performance of the redox flow battery.
H01M 8/0258 - CollectorsSeparators, e.g. bipolar separatorsInterconnectors characterised by the configuration of channels, e.g. by the flow field of the reactant or coolant
H01M 8/18 - Regenerative fuel cells, e.g. redox flow batteries or secondary fuel cells
99.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CIRCULATING ELECTROLYTE AND ELECTRIC CURRENT IN SERIES COUPLED REDOX FLOW BATTERY CELLS
Systems and methods are provided for electrolyte and current circulation in a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system may include a plurality of redox flow battery cells electrically coupled in series. In this way, a potential difference across the plurality of redox flow battery cells may be ramped up, such that relatively high voltage external loads may be powered by the redox flow battery system. In some examples, each of the plurality of redox flow battery cells may be fluidically isolated from one another. As such, in one example, the redox flow battery system may further include a plurality of electrolyte storage tanks respectively fluidically coupled to the plurality of redox flow battery cells. Such fluidic isolation of each of the plurality of redox flow battery cells may eliminate stack-to-stack shunting in the redox flow battery system, as well as improve a modularity thereof.
Systems and methods are provided for electrolyte and current circulation in a redox flow battery system. In one example, the redox flow battery system may include a plurality of redox flow battery cells electrically coupled in series. In this way, a potential difference across the plurality of redox flow battery cells may be ramped up, such that relatively high voltage external loads may be powered by the redox flow battery system. In some examples, each of the plurality of redox flow battery cells may be fluidically isolated from one another. As such, in one example, the redox flow battery system may further include a plurality of electrolyte storage tanks respectively fluidically coupled to the plurality of redox flow battery cells. Such fluidic isolation of each of the plurality of redox flow battery cells may eliminate stack-to-stack shunting in the redox flow battery system, as well as improve a modularity thereof.
