Flow battery stack and electrode frame

Abstract

The invention discloses a redox flow battery stack and an electrode frame, which are applied to the technical field of redox flow batteries, and comprise a main body plate with a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, a shunting flow channel which is arranged on the main body plate and is provided with a plurality of shunting ports, and an electrochemical reaction area which is arranged between a liquid inlet shunting flow channel and a liquid outlet shunting flow channel, the liquid inlet is communicated with the liquid inlet end of the electrochemical reaction area through the liquid inlet shunting flow channel, and the liquid outlet is communicated with the liquid outlet end of the electrochemical reaction area through the liquid outlet shunting flow channel; the at least one uniform distribution pipe is arranged in the electrochemical reaction area and is used for supporting a carbon felt electrode, a liquid inlet opening of each uniform distribution pipe is connected with a shunting opening of the liquid inlet shunting flow channel, and a liquid outlet opening of each uniform distribution pipe is connected with a shunting opening of the liquid outlet shunting flow channel; and the side wall of the uniform distribution pipe is provided with a liquid separation port communicated with the electrochemical reaction area. And the uniform contact between the electrolyte and the carbon felt electrode can be realized, and the fastening support of the carbon felt electrode can also be realized.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of flow battery, in particular to a flow battery stack and electrode frame. BACKGROUND

[0002] With the increasing proportion of new green energy in the global energy structure, the energy storage market has emerged. Among them, the flow battery energy storage technology is gradually being popularized and applied due to its safety and reliability, high cost performance in life cycle, environmental friendliness and other advantages.

[0003] The flow battery stack is the core component of the flow battery system. Through the oxidation and reduction reaction of the positive and negative electrolytes in the stack, the conversion of electrical energy and chemical energy is realized, and its performance directly affects the efficiency and life of the entire energy storage system. The flow battery stack is internally composed of multiple single cells in series, each single cell containing an electrode frame, a carbon felt electrode, a proton exchange membrane and a bipolar plate. Through optimized design, the energy conversion efficiency and system stability can be improved.

[0004] The electrode frame plays a key role in the flow battery stack, ensuring that the carbon felt electrode is in full contact with the electrolyte, promoting efficient reaction, while evenly distributing the electrolyte, reducing internal resistance and improving the overall performance and stability of the flow battery stack.

[0005] In the prior art, as shown in Figure 1 The electrode frame is mainly used to evenly distribute the electrolyte, and the electrochemical reaction zone 11 is a blank area without supporting components to support the carbon felt electrode, which leads to the easy falling off of the carbon felt electrode during the assembly process of the flow battery stack, resulting in a large amount of manpower and material resources wasted for fastening, and the inability to realize automatic production line.

[0006] In summary, how to effectively develop a new type of electrode frame structure to solve the problem of easy falling off of the carbon felt electrode during the assembly process of the flow battery stack is a problem that needs to be solved by the technical personnel in the field at present. SUMMARY

[0007] The purpose of the present application is to provide a flow battery stack and electrode frame that can achieve uniform contact between the electrolyte and the carbon felt electrode and also achieve fastening and support of the carbon felt electrode.

[0008] To solve the above technical problems, the present application provides the following technical solutions.

[0009] An electrode frame comprises a main plate with an inlet and an outlet, a shunt channel provided on the main plate and having a plurality of shunt openings, and an electrochemical reaction zone provided between the inlet shunt channel and the outlet shunt channel, the inlet is communicated with the inlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone through the inlet shunt channel, and the outlet is communicated with the outlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone through the outlet shunt channel; further comprising at least one uniform distribution pipe provided in the electrochemical reaction zone for supporting a carbon felt electrode, the inlet opening of each uniform distribution pipe is connected with one shunt opening of the inlet shunt channel, and the outlet opening is connected with one shunt opening of the outlet shunt channel, and a shunt opening is provided on the side wall of the uniform distribution pipe and communicated with the electrochemical reaction zone.

[0010] Optionally, at least three shunt openings of the inlet shunt channel and the outlet shunt channel are connected with the inlet opening or the outlet opening of the uniform distribution pipe to realize the surface support of the carbon felt electrode; the inlet opening and the outlet opening of the uniform distribution pipe are connected with the shunt openings close to the side edge of the shunt channel.

[0011] Optionally, the uniform distribution pipe is a hook-shaped pipe, the bifurcation between the two ends of the hook-shaped pipe is directed to the side edge of the electrochemical reaction zone, the uniform distribution pipe extends from the side edge end of the electrochemical reaction zone to the central region of the electrochemical reaction zone, the distance of the bifurcation gradually narrows from the side edge of the electrochemical reaction zone to the middle part, and there is one hook-shaped pipe on each side of the electrochemical reaction zone.

[0012] Optionally, there is a gap between the uniform distribution pipes on the two sides, and the uniform distribution pipes on the two sides are connected by a transverse connecting rod at the end close to each other, and the uniform distribution pipes on the two sides are symmetrically distributed.

[0013] Optionally, the uniform distribution pipe is an X-shaped pipe, provided with two inlet openings and two outlet openings, and the four openings are communicated with each other at the intersection of the X-shaped pipe, and the intersection of the X-shaped pipe is located at the central position of the electrochemical reaction zone.

[0014] Optionally, the uniform distribution pipe comprises at least two straight pipes for supporting the two ends of the carbon felt electrode.

[0015] Optionally, the uniform distribution pipe comprises a connecting plate connecting the shunt openings of the inlet shunt channel and the shunt openings of the outlet shunt channel, a groove is formed on the upper surface of the connecting plate along the length direction of the connecting plate, the shunt opening is provided on the side wall of the groove, and the distance between adjacent shunt openings gradually increases from the side edge far away from the electrochemical reaction zone to the side edge close to the electrochemical reaction zone.

[0016] Optionally, a sink is formed on the main plate to form the shunt flow channel, the upper surface and the lower surface of the connecting plate are flush with the upper surface and the lower surface of the shunt flow channel respectively, the bottom surface of the groove is lower than the upper surface of the shunt flow channel, and the upper surface of the shunt flow channel is lower than the upper surface of the main plate.

[0017] Optionally, the width of the connecting plate is greater than or equal to the width of the shunt port connected thereto, and the width of the groove is less than the width of the shunt port connected thereto.

[0018] The application provides a flow battery stack, comprising a plurality of single cells connected in series, the single cell comprising, from bottom to top, an electrode frame, a carbon felt electrode, a bipolar plate, a carbon felt electrode, an electrode frame and a proton exchange membrane, the two sides of the carbon felt electrode being supported on the uniform distribution tubes of the two electrode frames respectively, and the electrode frame being the electrode frame of any one of the preceding aspects.

[0019] The electrode frame provided by the application has the shunt flow channel arranged on the main plate and a plurality of shunt ports arranged on the shunt flow channel. The shunt flow channel is divided into an inlet liquid shunt flow channel and an outlet liquid shunt flow channel. The inlet liquid shunt flow channel is connected to the inlet liquid end of the electrochemical reaction zone, and the outlet liquid shunt flow channel is connected to the outlet liquid end of the electrochemical reaction zone. In the electrochemical reaction zone, the electrolyte is in a dynamic flow state and fully contacts the carbon felt electrode, so that efficient oxidation-reduction reaction occurs.

[0020] The uniform distribution tube is arranged in the electrochemical reaction zone to provide stable support for the carbon felt electrode and optimize the distribution of the electrolyte. Specifically, the inlet opening of each uniform distribution tube is connected to one shunt port of the inlet liquid shunt flow channel, and the outlet opening is connected to one shunt port of the outlet liquid shunt flow channel. The side wall of the uniform distribution tube is provided with a liquid distribution port, which communicates with the electrochemical reaction zone, so that the electrolyte can flow into the uniform distribution tube from the inlet opening, and during the process of passing through the internal passage, part of the electrolyte flows into the electrochemical reaction zone through the liquid distribution port. This process not only uniformly distributes the electrolyte to each part of the electrochemical reaction zone, but also ensures that the electrolyte can uniformly contact the carbon felt electrode, thereby realizing the uniform contact of the electrolyte with the surface of the carbon felt electrode.

[0021] During the assembly of the flow battery stack, the carbon felt electrode abuts against the uniform distribution tube, which provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode. This support ensures that the carbon felt electrode maintains a fixed position during the electrochemical reaction process, avoiding displacement due to electrolyte flow or other external forces, thereby ensuring the stability of the performance of the carbon felt electrode. This layout not only prevents the carbon felt electrode from falling off during assembly, but also ensures that the contact area between the uniform distribution tube and the carbon felt electrode is small, so that the electrolyte can fully contact the carbon felt electrode, improving the reaction efficiency.

[0022] The electrode frame provided by the application realizes uniform distribution of electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone by introducing the uniform distribution pipe in the electrochemical reaction zone, improves the overall energy efficiency of the electrolysis stack, reduces the concentration polarization of the electrolyte, improves the utilization rate of the electrolyte, and optimizes the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction. At the same time, the uniform distribution pipe provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode and plays a fastening role. It firmly fixes the carbon felt electrodes on both sides of the bipolar plate in the middle of the electrode frame, ensures that the carbon felt electrode will not fall off during the assembly process of the electrolysis stack, not only saves a lot of manpower and material resources, but also helps to realize the design of an automatic production line.

[0023] The application also provides a flow battery stack, which comprises a plurality of single cells connected in series, and each single cell comprises, from bottom to top, an electrode frame, a carbon felt electrode, a bipolar plate, a carbon felt electrode, an electrode frame and a proton exchange membrane, and the two sides of the carbon felt electrode are supported on the uniform distribution pipes of the two electrode frames, and the electrode frame is any one of the electrode frames described above. Since the electrode frame described above has the technical effects described above, the flow battery stack with the electrode frame should also have corresponding technical effects. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0024] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of the application or the prior art, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed to be used in the embodiments or the prior art description. Obviously, the drawings in the following description only constitute some embodiments of the application, and for those skilled in the art, other drawings can also be obtained without creative labor on the basis of these drawings.

[0025] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of a typical electrode frame in the prior art.

[0026] Figure 2 It is a structural schematic diagram of the first electrode frame provided by a specific embodiment in the application.

[0027] Figure 3 It is a structural schematic diagram of the second electrode frame provided by a specific embodiment in the application.

[0028] Figure 4 It is a structural schematic diagram of the third electrode frame provided by a specific embodiment in the application.

[0029] Figure 5 It is a stacking schematic diagram of the flow battery stack assembly provided by a specific embodiment in the application.

[0030] REFERENCE SIGNS

[0031] 1-body plate; 2-positive / negative electrolyte inlet; 3-positive / negative electrolyte outlet; 4-negative / positive electrolyte inlet; 5-negative / positive electrolyte outlet; 6-shunt flow channel; 7-first-stage shunt passage; 8-second-stage shunt passage; 9-third-stage shunt passage; 10-distribution tube; 11-electrochemical reaction zone; 12-groove; 13-distribution port; 14-positioning hole; 15-carbon felt electrode; 16-bipolar plate; 17-proton exchange membrane. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] The core of the present application is to provide a flow battery stack and electrode frame, which can realize uniform contact between electrolyte and carbon felt electrode and fastening and support of the carbon felt electrode.

[0033] The technical solutions in the embodiments of the present application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the drawings in the embodiments of the present application. Obviously, the described embodiments are only part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative work fall within the protection scope of the present application.

[0034] In one specific embodiment, the electrode frame provided by the present application comprises a body plate 1 having an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet, a shunt flow channel 6 provided on the body plate 1 and having a plurality of shunt ports, and an electrochemical reaction zone 11 provided between the electrolyte inlet shunt flow channel and the electrolyte outlet shunt flow channel, the electrolyte inlet being communicated with an electrolyte inlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 through the electrolyte inlet shunt flow channel, and the electrolyte outlet being communicated with an electrolyte outlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 through the electrolyte outlet shunt flow channel. The electrode frame further comprises at least one distribution tube 10 provided in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 for supporting the carbon felt electrode 15, the electrolyte inlet opening of each distribution tube 10 being connected with one shunt port of the electrolyte inlet shunt flow channel, and the electrolyte outlet opening being connected with one shunt port of the electrolyte outlet shunt flow channel, and the side wall of the distribution tube 10 being provided with a distribution port 13 communicated with the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0035] In the above structure, the electrode frame not only realizes uniform and stable contact between the electrolyte and the carbon felt electrode 15, but also ensures that the carbon felt electrode 15 does not fall off during the assembly of the stack. The body plate 1 serves as the frame of the electrode frame and provides a support basis for the entire device. The body plate 1 is provided with an electrolyte inlet and an electrolyte outlet for the inflow and outflow of electrolyte, respectively. The electrolyte inlet comprises positive / negative electrolyte inlets 2 and negative / positive electrolyte inlets 4, which are arranged on the front and back of the body plate 1, respectively. The electrolyte outlet comprises positive / negative electrolyte outlets 3 and negative / positive electrolyte outlets 5, which are also distributed on the front and back of the body plate 1. The material of the body plate 1 has good corrosion resistance to cope with the strong chemical properties of the electrolyte. The shape of the body plate 1 can be a regular cuboid, a cylinder or other suitable shape, and the specific size is determined according to the actual scale of the electrochemical reaction.

[0036] Preferably, the liquid inlet is located at the lower end of the main plate 1, and the liquid outlet is located at the upper end of the main plate 1, which are centrally symmetrically distributed, and the flow directions of the positive and negative electrolyte at the liquid inlet and outlet are opposite, which optimizes the flow path of the electrolyte and improves the reaction efficiency.

[0037] The shunt flow channel 6 is provided on the main plate 1 for guiding the electrolyte to flow from the liquid inlet to the electrochemical reaction zone 11 and from the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the liquid outlet. The shunt flow channel 6 is provided with a plurality of shunt openings, which are like a plurality of small distribution points, which help the uniform distribution of the electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11. The internal passage shape of the shunt flow channel 6 can be circular, square, etc., and the cross-sectional area size and number of the passage are determined according to the flow rate of the electrolyte and the requirements of the electrochemical reaction.

[0038] The shunt flow channel 6 is divided into an inlet shunt flow channel and an outlet shunt flow channel. The function of the inlet shunt flow channel is to preliminarily distribute the electrolyte entering from the liquid inlet, so that it can uniformly flow to the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and to ensure that the flow rate and flow velocity of the electrolyte are reasonably controlled before entering the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0039] The function of the outlet shunt flow channel is to collect the electrolyte flowing out of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 and guide it to the liquid outlet to discharge the electrode frame, so as to ensure that the electrolyte can smoothly flow out of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and to avoid problems such as incomplete reaction caused by local liquid accumulation or slow flow rate.

[0040] Preferably, the main body of the shunt flow channel 6 is in a trapezoidal structure and contains a plurality of shunt passages. From the upper base to the lower base, the number of shunt passages gradually increases. For example, it can be designed as three levels of shunt passages, i.e. the first level of shunt passage 7, the second level of shunt passage 8, and the third level of shunt passage 9, wherein the number of shunt passages gradually increases. The uniform distribution pipe 10 is connected to the shunt openings of the last stage shunt distributor, further optimizing the distribution of the electrolyte.

[0041] Further, the uniform distribution area of the shunt flow channel 6 is left-right symmetric, which ensures the uniform distribution of the electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11, thereby improving the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction. Since the resistance of the electrolyte is large and the flow rate is slow near the side edges of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, in order to adapt to the flow rate of the electrolyte, the spacing between adjacent shunt openings is gradually increased from the side edge far away from the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the side edge close to the electrochemical reaction zone 11, which helps the electrolyte to be more uniformly distributed in the electrochemical reaction zone 11, ensures that the electrolyte can cover the entire surface of the carbon felt electrode 15, and thereby improves the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction.

[0042] Electrochemical reaction zone 11 is where the redox reaction of the electrolyte occurs. It is located between the inlet and outlet diversion channels. The inlet diversion channel is connected to the inlet end of electrochemical reaction zone 11, ensuring smooth flow of electrolyte. The outlet diversion channel is connected to the outlet end of electrochemical reaction zone 11, guiding the electrolyte to drain smoothly after the reaction. Within electrochemical reaction zone 11, the electrolyte is in a dynamic flow state, fully contacting the carbon felt electrode 15, allowing for efficient redox reactions.

[0043] Carbon felt electrode 15 is a commonly used electrode material that significantly improves the efficiency of electrochemical reactions due to its excellent conductivity and large specific surface area. The shape and size of electrochemical reaction zone 11 typically match those of carbon felt electrode 15, for example, using a rectangular or cylindrical interior space design with gaps left at the edges of carbon felt electrode 15 to ensure that the electrolyte can evenly cover the entire surface of carbon felt electrode 15.

[0044] The uniformly distributed tube 10 is arranged in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to provide stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15 and optimize the distribution of the electrolyte. Specifically, the liquid inlet opening of each uniformly distributed tube 10 is connected to a branch opening of the liquid inlet branch flow channel, and the liquid outlet opening is connected to a branch opening of the liquid outlet branch flow channel. The side wall of the uniformly distributed tube 10 is provided with a liquid separation port 13, which is connected to the electrochemical reaction zone 11, so that the electrolyte can flow into the uniformly distributed tube 10 from the liquid inlet opening, and in the process of passing through the internal channel, a part of the electrolyte flows evenly into the electrochemical reaction zone 11 through the liquid separation port 13. This process not only evenly distributes the electrolyte to various parts of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, but also ensures that the electrolyte can evenly contact the carbon felt electrode 15, thereby achieving uniform contact between the electrolyte and the surface of the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0045] The shape, number, and distribution of the liquid separation ports 13 can be flexibly adjusted according to actual needs to achieve uniform distribution of the electrolyte within the electrochemical reaction zone 11. This design not only ensures that the electrolyte can evenly cover the surface of the carbon felt electrode 15, but also further optimizes the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction.

[0046] During the assembly process of the flow battery stack, the carbon felt electrode 15 abuts against the uniformly distributed tube 10, and the uniformly distributed tube 10 provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15. This support ensures that the carbon felt electrode 15 maintains a fixed position during the electrochemical reaction process, avoiding displacement due to the flow of electrolyte or other external forces, thereby ensuring the stability of the performance of the carbon felt electrode 15. The number of uniformly distributed tubes 10 is usually 1-8, and the specific number depends on the shape and size of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. For example, in a rectangular electrochemical reaction zone 11, two uniformly distributed tubes 10 can be set, located on the left and right sides respectively, to support the two ends of the carbon felt electrode 15. This layout not only prevents the carbon felt electrode 15 from falling off during the assembly process, but also ensures that the contact area between the uniformly distributed tube 10 and the carbon felt electrode 15 is small, so that the electrolyte can fully contact the carbon felt electrode 15, thereby improving the reaction efficiency.

[0047] The electrode frame provided by the present invention achieves uniform distribution of the electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 by introducing the uniform distribution tube 10 into the electrochemical reaction zone 11, thereby improving the overall energy efficiency of the battery stack, reducing the concentration polarization of the electrolyte, improving the utilization rate of the electrolyte, and optimizing the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction. At the same time, the uniform distribution tube 10 provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15 and plays a tightening role. It firmly fixes the carbon felt electrodes 15 on both sides of the bipolar plate 16 in the middle of the electrode frame, ensuring that the carbon felt electrodes 15 will not fall off during the assembly process of the battery stack, which not only saves a lot of manpower and material resources, but also helps to realize the design of automated production lines.

[0048] It should be understood that in the description of the present invention, the term "diversion" refers to the graded and uniform distribution of the electrolyte after entering the electrode frame to ensure that the electrolyte can enter the electrochemical reaction zone 11 evenly and in equal amounts. Uniform distribution refers to a more uniform distribution of the electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0049] On the basis of the above-mentioned specific embodiments, at least three diversion ports on the liquid inlet diversion channel and the liquid outlet diversion channel are connected to the liquid inlet opening or the liquid outlet opening of the uniformly distributed tube 10 to achieve surface support for the carbon felt electrode 15, ensuring its stability throughout the entire working process, and effectively preventing the carbon felt electrode 15 from falling off during the assembly of the battery stack, as well as displacement or deformation caused by the pressure generated by the flow of electrolyte or electrochemical reaction.

[0050] The liquid inlet and outlet openings of the uniform distribution tube 10 are connected to one or more branch ports of the liquid inlet and liquid outlet branch channels, respectively, allowing the electrolyte to be more evenly distributed, ensuring uniform coverage of the surface of the carbon felt electrode 15. The electrolyte can be evenly distributed across the entire surface of the carbon felt electrode 15, further optimizing its distribution on the surface of the carbon felt electrode 15, thereby significantly improving the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction.

[0051] In view of the large surface area of the carbon felt electrode 15, the present embodiment employs the uniform distribution tube 10 to provide surface support. Specifically, at least three shunt openings are connected to the uniform distribution tube 10, with a portion of the shunt openings located in the liquid inlet shunt flow channel and another portion located in the liquid outlet shunt flow channel, thereby providing comprehensive and stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0052] This surface support method provides a solid support foundation for the carbon felt electrode 15, ensuring its stability during the entire electrochemical reaction process and preventing displacement due to electrolyte flow. It effectively prevents local deformation or folding of the carbon felt electrode 15 during the reaction process, thereby ensuring uniform contact of the electrolyte with the carbon felt electrode 15 and uniform distribution within the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11. This not only improves the uniformity and efficiency of the reaction, but also enhances the overall performance and stability of the stack, providing a strong guarantee for automated production.

[0053] Based on the above specific embodiments, the liquid inlet opening and the liquid outlet opening of the uniform distribution tube 10 are connected to the shunt openings near the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6.

[0054] In one specific embodiment, in order to achieve efficient and uniform entry and exit of the electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 and stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15, the liquid inlet opening and the liquid outlet opening of the uniform distribution tube 10 can be positioned near the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6. Based on the flow characteristics of the electrolyte at the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6, although the flow resistance at this position is relatively large, this resistance makes the flow of the electrolyte more gentle and uniform. The electrolyte can enter the uniform distribution tube 10 at a stable speed and be evenly distributed to each part of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 through the liquid distribution openings 13.

[0055] This uniform distribution method improves the uniformity of the electrolyte distribution within the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11, effectively avoiding the problem of local overfast or overslow reaction caused by uneven electrolyte distribution. By optimizing the distribution of the electrolyte, the overall efficiency and uniformity of the electrochemical reaction are significantly improved.

[0056] The uniform distribution tube 10 not only optimizes the uniformity of the electrolyte distribution, but also provides reliable physical support for the carbon felt electrode 15. By positioning the openings of the uniform distribution tube 10 near the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6, the uniform distribution tube 10 can cover a larger lateral distance within the electrochemical reaction zone 11, with the support points near the two ends of the carbon felt electrode 15. This layout significantly expands the support range in the length direction of the carbon felt electrode 15, enhancing the stability and reliability of the support.

[0057] This design effectively prevents the carbon felt electrode 15 from shifting or deforming during the flow of electrolyte, ensuring that the carbon felt electrode 15 can always maintain sufficient and uniform contact with the electrolyte. This not only improves the efficiency of the electrochemical reaction, but also enhances the stability and reliability of the reaction process.

[0058] In addition, the openings of the uniform distribution tube 10 are directly connected to the shunt ports at the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6, simplifying the internal structure of the electrode frame and reducing the number and complexity of connecting components. This not only reduces manufacturing costs, but also improves the reliability and maintainability of the system, reducing the risk of electrolyte leakage or carbon felt electrode 15 damage due to connecting component failure.

[0059] The inlet and outlet openings of the uniform distribution tube 10 can be connected to the shunt ports of the shunt flow channel 6 through welding, threaded connection or sealant, etc., to ensure the firmness and sealing of the connection.

[0060] Based on the above specific embodiments, the uniform distribution tube 10 is a hook-shaped tube, with the fork between its two ends facing the side edge of the electrochemical reaction area 11. The uniform distribution tube 10 extends from the side edge of the electrochemical reaction area 11 to the central area of the electrochemical reaction area 11, and the distance of the fork gradually narrows from the side edge to the middle of the electrochemical reaction area 11. There is a hook-shaped tube on each side of the electrochemical reaction area 11.

[0061] In one specific embodiment, as shown in Figure 2 The hook-shaped tube has a radius and length designed according to the size of the electrochemical reaction area 11 to ensure that the electrolyte can be evenly distributed to each part of the electrochemical reaction area 11. This design not only optimizes the flow path of the electrolyte, but also provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15, significantly improving the efficiency and uniformity of the electrochemical reaction.

[0062] The fork between the two ends of the hook-shaped tube faces the side edge of the electrochemical reaction area 11, and the uniform distribution tube 10 extends from the side edge of the electrochemical reaction area 11 to the central area of the electrochemical reaction area 11. There is a hook-shaped tube on each side of the electrochemical reaction area 11, and the two hook-shaped tubes cover the transverse area between the two sides of the electrochemical reaction area 11. This layout not only realizes the surface support of the carbon felt electrode 15, but also expands the support range of the entire length direction of the carbon felt electrode 15, enhancing the stability and reliability of the support.

[0063] Preferably, the two side hook-shaped tubes are symmetrically distributed, so that the force points at both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15 are symmetrical and the force is uniform. This symmetrical design provides more comprehensive support for the carbon felt electrode 15, ensuring that the carbon felt electrode 15 remains stable throughout the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11. Through this design, the carbon felt electrode 15 can effectively avoid deformation or displacement caused by uneven force during electrolyte flow, further improving the stability of the carbon felt electrode 15 and the uniformity of the reaction.

[0064] The distance of the fork gradually narrows from the side edges of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the middle, forming a V-shaped tube with a circular arc transition at the end. This gradual change structure can make the outer side of the uniform distribution tube 10 have a larger width support distance for the carbon felt electrode 15, and the inner side have a smaller support distance for the carbon felt electrode 15. On the basis of ensuring stable support for both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15, the overall support area is reduced, the contact area between the electrolyte and the carbon felt electrode 15 is increased, and the efficiency of the electrochemical reaction is improved.

[0065] The hook-shaped tube is smooth overall without dead corners, reducing flow resistance and ensuring smooth flow of electrolyte inside. This design not only ensures that the electrolyte can smoothly enter the electrochemical reaction zone 11, but also quickly contact the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0066] As can be seen from the above, the hook-shaped tube can make the electrolyte flow uniformly from the side edges of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the middle, ensuring uniform distribution of the electrolyte throughout the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11, further improving the uniformity and efficiency of the electrochemical reaction.

[0067] On the basis of the above various specific embodiments, there is a gap between the two side uniform distribution tubes 10, and the two side uniform distribution tubes 10 are connected by a transverse connecting rod at the end close to each other, and the two side uniform distribution tubes 10 are symmetrically distributed.

[0068] In one specific embodiment, a hook-shaped uniform distribution tube 10 is arranged on each side of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and a certain gap is maintained between the two uniform distribution tubes 10, and the two uniform distribution tubes 10 are not connected at the end close to each other, effectively reducing the mutual interference between the two electrolyte flows. Such a layout not only facilitates the free flow of electrolyte in the electrochemical reaction zone 11, reduces flow resistance, but also avoids the formation of dead zones on the surface of the carbon felt electrode 15, thereby ensuring uniform distribution of the electrolyte throughout the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0069] In order to further improve the stability and integrity of the structure, the two side uniform distribution tubes 10 are connected by a transverse connecting rod at the end close to each other. Through the connection of the transverse connecting rod, the two side uniform distribution tubes 10 form a unified whole in structure, significantly enhancing the stability of the entire electrode frame and effectively preventing structural deformation caused by electrolyte flow or other external forces.

[0070] The two symmetrical distribution tubes 10 can ensure that the force points at both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15 are symmetrical and evenly stressed. This symmetrical layout provides comprehensive support for the carbon felt electrode 15, keeping it stable throughout the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11. Further, the end tip parts of the two symmetrical distribution tubes 10 are opposite and connected by a transverse connecting rod. This connection not only improves the mechanical stability of the distribution tube 10, but also ensures that the two symmetrical distribution tubes 10 always maintain symmetrical distribution during operation, thereby further enhancing the stability of the carbon felt electrode 15 and the uniformity of the reaction.

[0071] Based on the above various specific embodiments, the distribution tube 10 is an X-shaped tube, provided with two liquid inlet openings and two liquid outlet openings, and the four openings are connected to each other at the intersection of the X-shaped tube, and the intersection of the X-shaped tube is located at the center of the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0072] In one specific embodiment, as shown in Figure 3 The two liquid inlet openings are respectively connected to the two shunt ports of the liquid inlet shunt flow channel, ensuring that the electrolyte can smoothly and uniformly enter the X-shaped tube; the two liquid outlet openings are respectively connected to the two shunt ports of the liquid outlet shunt flow channel, ensuring that the electrolyte can smoothly and uniformly flow out. The size of the X-shaped tube matches the size of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and preferably, the liquid inlet openings and the liquid outlet openings are in close proximity to the shunt ports at the side edges of the shunt flow channel 6, with larger distribution and support areas, which not only makes the distribution of electrolyte more uniform, but also provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0073] The intersection of the X-shaped tube is located at the center of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and the electrolyte enters the X-shaped tube through the two liquid inlet openings. Through the distribution tube 10, the electrolyte can be distributed to the center of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and the electrolyte at the center of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 uniformly diffuses to the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11 from the intersection to the periphery, ensuring uniform distribution of the electrolyte throughout the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11, avoiding local accumulation or uneven distribution.

[0074] The four openings are connected to each other at the intersection of the X-shaped tube, not only ensuring that the electrolyte can be evenly distributed to the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11 after entering the intersection, but also allowing the electrolyte to mix fully during the entry and exit processes, thereby optimizing the uniformity of the electrolyte distribution. Through the connection of the intersection, the electrolyte can be redistributed inside the X-shaped tube, thereby achieving more precise and uniform distribution.

[0075] The X-shaped tube penetrates the entire length of the carbon felt electrode 15, providing continuous lateral support for the carbon felt electrode 15, effectively preventing the carbon felt electrode 15 from deforming or displacing during electrolyte flow, significantly improving the stability of the carbon felt electrode 15. Moreover, the intersection of the X-shaped tube is located at the center of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and the X-shaped tube is symmetrically distributed, so that the stress points at both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15 are symmetrical and uniform, thereby ensuring that the carbon felt electrode 15 remains flat and stable throughout the electrochemical reaction zone 11, further reducing structural deformation caused by electrolyte flow or other external forces.

[0076] The X-shaped tube is a whole, which is convenient to connect with the shunt flow channel 6, and has good overall stability. This design not only enhances the structural stability of the entire electrode frame, but also reduces the number and complexity of connecting components, reduces manufacturing costs, and improves system reliability and maintainability.

[0077] As can be seen from the above, the X-shaped tube not only makes the distribution of electrolyte more uniform, but also provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15, significantly improving the overall performance of the electrochemical reaction, and significantly improving the uniformity of electrolyte distribution and the stability of the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0078] On the basis of the above various specific embodiments, the uniform distribution tube 10 includes at least two straight tubes for supporting both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0079] In one specific embodiment, as shown in Figure 4 The uniform distribution tube 10 includes at least two straight tubes, one end of each straight tube being a liquid inlet opening and the other end being a liquid outlet opening. The liquid inlet opening is connected to the shunt port of the liquid inlet shunt flow channel to ensure that the electrolyte can enter the straight tube smoothly and uniformly; the liquid outlet opening is connected to the shunt port of the liquid outlet shunt flow channel to ensure that the electrolyte can flow out smoothly and uniformly.

[0080] The at least two straight tubes are respectively located on both sides of the electrochemical reaction zone 11 and are respectively supported at both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15. The length of the straight tube is greater than the width of the carbon felt electrode 15, providing comprehensive and stable support for both ends of the carbon felt electrode 15, preventing the carbon felt electrode 15 from deforming or displacing during electrolyte flow, and ensuring that the carbon felt electrode 15 remains flat throughout the electrochemical reaction zone 11, thereby improving the service life and reaction efficiency of the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0081] A plurality of liquid distribution ports 13 are provided on the straight tube, and the liquid distribution port 13 communicates with the electrochemical reaction zone 11, ensuring that the electrolyte can be uniformly distributed to each part of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. The liquid distribution ports 13 can be uniformly distributed, and the electrolyte can flow smoothly and uniformly from the straight tube into the electrochemical reaction zone 11, improving the uniformity of electrolyte distribution and thereby improving the efficiency and uniformity of the electrochemical reaction.

[0082] The straight pipe can be a vertical pipe parallel to the side of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, or an inclined pipe at a set angle with the side of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, adapting to different layouts of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. The structure of the straight pipe is simple, the flow path of the electrolyte in the straight pipe is simple, the flow efficiency of the electrolyte is improved, and the energy loss of the electrolyte in the flow process is reduced. The connection of the straight pipe with the shunt flow channel 6 is convenient, reducing the number and complexity of the connecting components, reducing the manufacturing cost, and improving the reliability and maintainability of the system.

[0083] As known from the above, the straight pipe not only makes the distribution of the electrolyte more uniform, but also provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15, significantly improving the overall performance of the electrochemical reaction.

[0084] In this application, the hook-shaped pipe, X-shaped pipe and straight pipe are taken as examples for illustration, and the application includes but is not limited to the above three.

[0085] On the basis of the above various specific embodiments, the uniform distribution pipe 10 includes a connecting plate connecting the shunt ports of the liquid inlet shunt flow channel and the liquid outlet shunt flow channel, the upper surface of the connecting plate is provided with a groove 12 along the length direction thereof, the liquid distribution ports 13 are arranged on the side wall of the groove 12, and the distance between adjacent liquid distribution ports 13 gradually increases from the side edge far away from the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the side edge close to the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0086] In one specific embodiment, one end of the connecting plate is connected to the shunt port of the liquid inlet shunt flow channel, and the other end is connected to the shunt port of the liquid outlet shunt flow channel. The connecting plate can be a rectangular plate connecting the liquid inlet shunt flow channel and the liquid outlet shunt flow channel, which has a stable structure to ensure that the position of the uniform distribution pipe 10 in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 is fixed, preventing structural deformation caused by electrolyte flow or other external forces.

[0087] The upper surface of the connecting plate is provided with a groove 12 along the length direction thereof, the groove 12 is a flow channel for the electrolyte, and the shape and size of the groove 12 are determined according to the flow rate and flow velocity of the electrolyte, ensuring that the electrolyte can enter and flow out of the uniform distribution pipe 10 smoothly and uniformly.

[0088] The liquid distribution ports 13 are arranged on the side wall of the groove 12, and the position of the liquid distribution ports 13 is higher than the bottom surface of the groove 12, that is, the internal space of the groove 12 is in communication with the liquid distribution ports 13. These liquid distribution ports 13 uniformly distribute the electrolyte in the groove 12 to each part of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, ensuring that the electrolyte can quickly and uniformly contact the carbon felt electrode 15, improving the efficiency of the electrochemical reaction.

[0089] The distance between adjacent liquid distribution ports 13 gradually increases from the side edge far away from the electrochemical reaction zone 11 to the side edge close to the electrochemical reaction zone 11. The distance between the liquid distribution ports 13 matches the pressure change and flow rate change of the electrolyte during the flow process, and the electrolyte can be more uniformly distributed when entering the electrochemical reaction zone 11, reducing the local accumulation of electrolyte near the side edge of the electrochemical reaction zone 11, and ensuring the uniform distribution of electrolyte in the entire electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0090] On the basis of the above-mentioned various embodiments, a sink is opened on the main plate 1 to form a shunt flow channel 6, and the upper surface and the lower surface of the connecting plate are flush with the upper surface and the lower surface of the shunt flow channel 6, respectively. The bottom surface of the groove 12 is lower than the upper surface of the shunt flow channel 6, and the upper surface of the shunt flow channel 6 is lower than the upper surface of the main plate 1.

[0091] In one embodiment, a sink is opened on the main plate 1 to form a shunt flow channel 6 for guiding the flow of electrolyte. The lower surface of the main plate 1 is flush with the lower surface of the shunt flow channel 6, while the upper surface of the main plate 1 is slightly higher than the upper surface of the shunt flow channel 6, forming a certain height difference, which is usually between 0.5 and 30 mm, for example, it can be 0.5 mm, 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm, 20 mm or 30 mm. This height difference design not only reduces the flow resistance, but also reduces the energy loss of the electrolyte during the flow process, ensuring that the electrolyte can flow smoothly and uniformly. It ensures that the electrolyte can flow smoothly into and out of the shunt flow channel 6, helping the smooth flow of the electrolyte, while preventing the electrolyte from overflowing from the surface of the main plate 1.

[0092] The upper surface and the lower surface of the connecting plate are flush with the upper surface and the lower surface of the shunt flow channel 6, respectively, achieving seamless butt joint. This design allows the electrolyte to flow smoothly from the shunt flow channel 6 into the groove 12 of the connecting plate, ensuring seamless connection between the connecting plate and the shunt flow channel 6. This seamless butt joint not only improves the sealing of the system, but also ensures the stability and safety of the electrolyte during the entire flow process.

[0093] The bottom surface of the groove 12 is lower than the upper surface of the shunt flow channel 6, for example, the bottom surface of the groove 12 is 0.5-3 mm lower than the upper surface of the shunt flow channel 6, and the bottom surface of the groove 12 forms a height difference with the surface of the shunt flow channel 6, reducing the flow resistance, allowing the electrolyte to flow smoothly from the shunt flow channel 6 into the low-lying groove 12, preventing the electrolyte from overflowing from the top surface of the groove 12, and ensuring that the electrolyte can flow smoothly and uniformly into and out of the electrochemical reaction zone 11.

[0094] The height difference between the connecting plate and the main plate 1 should satisfy that after the carbon felt electrode 15 abuts against the connecting plate, the electrode frames on both sides clamp the carbon felt electrode 15, and the connecting plate provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0095] The main plate 1 serves as the base frame of the electrode frame, providing a solid support for the entire device. The inlet, outlet, shunt flow channel 6, electrochemical reaction area 11, and distribution tube 10 are all integrated with the main plate 1, ensuring the structural stability and functional integrity of the entire device. This integrated design can be achieved through various processes, including one-piece injection molding, which can accurately mold all components in one go, ensuring precision and consistency; precision carving, which allows for customized designs with high precision, meeting specific size and shape requirements; and laser welding, ultrasonic welding, or adhesive bonding, which not only ensures a tight connection between components but also allows for the selection of the most suitable connection method based on different materials and application needs, resulting in efficient and reliable assembly.

[0096] The electrode frame material includes any one of PP, PE, PVC, PPH, UPVC, or CPVC, or a combination of at least two of them, which is mixed with glass fiber in one or more of the above, with a glass fiber content of 10-35%, of which PP with 20% glass fiber and PP with 30% glass fiber are the most typical.

[0097] Based on the above specific embodiments, the width of the connecting plate is greater than or equal to the width of the shunt port connected to it, making it very convenient to dock the connecting plate with the shunt port, thereby ensuring that the electrolyte can flow smoothly and evenly from the shunt port into the connecting plate. In addition, the wider connecting plate also enhances the structural stability of the entire distribution tube 10, effectively preventing structural deformation caused by electrolyte flow or other external forces, thereby improving the reliability of the system and prolonging the service life of the connecting plate.

[0098] At the same time, the width of the groove 12 is less than the width of the shunt port connected to it, for example, the width of the groove 12 can be 0.5-4mm. The narrower groove 12 can reduce the flow resistance of the electrolyte when entering the groove 12, so that the electrolyte can be evenly distributed to each distribution port 13 when entering the groove 12, thereby ensuring that the electrolyte can flow smoothly and evenly into the electrochemical reaction area 11.

[0099] At the same time, the connecting plate has sufficient width on both sides of the groove 12, ensuring that the connecting plate has sufficient support strength to support the carbon felt electrode 15. This design not only provides stable support for the carbon felt electrode 15, preventing deformation or displacement of the carbon felt electrode 15 during electrolyte flow, but also ensures that the carbon felt electrode 15 remains flat throughout the electrochemical reaction area 11, improving the service life and reaction efficiency of the carbon felt electrode 15.

[0100] The present invention provides a liquid flow battery stack, comprising a plurality of single cells connected in series, wherein the single cells include an electrode frame, a carbon felt electrode 15, a bipolar plate 16, a carbon felt electrode 15, an electrode frame and a proton exchange membrane 17 arranged from bottom to top, wherein both sides of the carbon felt electrode 15 are respectively supported on uniformly distributed tubes 10 of the electrode frames on both sides, and the electrode frame is specifically any one of the electrode frames described above.

[0101] In one embodiment, if Figure 5 As shown, during the assembly of a flow battery stack, from bottom to top, the following sequence is the electrode frame, carbon felt electrode 15, bipolar plate 16, carbon felt electrode 15, electrode frame, and proton exchange membrane 17, followed by the battery electrode frame, carbon felt electrode 15, bipolar plate 16, carbon felt electrode 15, electrode frame, and proton exchange membrane 17, and so on. The electrode frame, carbon felt electrode 15, bipolar plate 16, carbon felt electrode 15, and electrode frame form a small unit, which is assembled into a whole through laser welding, glue bonding, or melt film hot melt cold press bonding. The electrode frame is provided with positioning holes 14. During assembly, the positioning holes 14 are fitted onto positioning rods to ensure accurate positioning.

[0102] The electrode frame incorporates a uniform distribution tube 10 within the electrochemical reaction zone 11, which not only optimizes the distribution of the electrolyte, making it more uniform, but also securely supports the carbon felt electrode 15 by the uniform distribution tube 10 within the electrode frame, providing excellent support and tightening for the carbon felt electrode 15. This effectively prevents the carbon felt electrode 15 from falling off during the press-fitting process of the flow battery stack, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the stack. Supported by the uniform distribution tube 10, the carbon felt electrode 15 remains flat throughout the electrochemical reaction zone 11, ensuring sufficient contact between the electrolyte and the carbon felt electrode 15, thereby improving the efficiency and uniformity of the electrochemical reaction.

[0103] From the above, it can be seen that not only the performance of the liquid flow battery is improved, but also the assembly process of the liquid flow battery stack is simplified, the manufacturing cost is reduced, and the reliability and maintainability of the system are improved.

[0104] Example 1: The uniformly distributed tube 10 provided in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame is a hook-shaped tube, such as Figure 2As shown. The electrode frame has two shunt flow channels 6, which are distributed in a central symmetric structure. The negative electrolyte enters from the lower left and flows out from the upper right. The shunt flow channel 6 is divided into three levels in the trapezoidal division zone, where the first level contains 1 shunt, the second level contains 4 shunts, and the third level contains 6 shunts. The closer to the side of the electrode frame, the larger the interval between the two shunts, and the interval distance is 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 mm in turn. The shunt flow channel 6 is 2 mm thinner than the main plate 1, and the distribution tube 10 is 1 mm thinner than the shunt flow channel 6. The distribution tube 10 is in the shape of a bent corner symmetric structure, with a narrow strip transverse connecting rod connecting the two bent corners. The groove 12 of the distribution tube 10 is 2 mm wide and 1 mm thick, and the distribution holes 13 are more concentrated near the middle of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. This electrode frame is used for stack assembly.

[0105] Example Two: The distribution tube 10 arranged in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame is an X-shaped tube, as shown in Figure 3 . The main plate 1 and the shunt flow channel 6 of the electrode frame are the same as those in Example One. In this embodiment, the distribution tube 10 in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame is in an X-shaped structure, and the electrolyte is combined and then shunted in the middle of the electrochemical reaction. The distribution tube 10 is 1 mm thinner than the shunt flow channel 6, the groove 12 of the distribution tube 10 is 2 mm wide and 1 mm thick, and the distribution holes are more concentrated near the middle of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. This electrode frame is used for stack assembly.

[0106] Example Three: The distribution tube 10 arranged in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame is a straight tube, as shown in Figure 4 . The main plate 1 and the shunt flow channel 6 of the electrode frame are the same as those in Example One. In this embodiment, the distribution tube 10 in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame is in a straight line flow line structure, and the electrolyte is combined and then shunted in the middle of the electrochemical reaction. The distribution tube 10 is 1 mm thinner than the shunt flow channel 6, the groove 12 of the distribution tube 10 is 2 mm wide and 1 mm thick, and the distribution holes are more concentrated near the middle of the electrochemical reaction zone 11. This electrode frame is used for stack assembly.

[0107] Example Four: No distribution tube 10 is arranged in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 of the electrode frame, as shown in Figure 1 . The main plate 1 and the shunt flow channel 6 of the electrode frame are the same as those in Example One. This structure has the phenomenon of carbon felt electrode 15 falling off during stack assembly, and usually uses glue or other methods to fix the carbon felt electrode 15 on the bipolar plate 16 or the electrode frame to prevent the carbon felt electrode 15 from falling off. This electrode frame is used for stack assembly.

[0108] The four embodiments above have the same assembly method and performance evaluation method. In the flow battery stack, two electrode frames, two carbon felt electrodes 15, two bipolar plates 16 and one proton exchange membrane 17 form a single cell unit, and two adjacent single cells share one bipolar plate 16. Forty single cell units are assembled into a flow battery stack structure for electrochemical performance testing. The assembled stack is used as a test unit for battery performance testing, and the voltage efficiency, coulomb efficiency and energy efficiency of the overall stack are used to evaluate the performance of the stack. The test is a constant current charge-discharge performance test at a current density of 160 A / cm 2 The performance parameters of the stack are obtained after 50 cycles of stable charge-discharge performance and are recorded. The test results of the above embodiments are shown in Table 1.

[0109] Table 1

[0110]

[0111] As can be seen from Table 1, the energy efficiency of the flow battery stacks of Example 1, Example 2 and Example 3 is higher than that of Example 4, which shows that the addition of the uniform distribution tube 10 in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 can significantly improve the overall performance of the stack. Among them, the performance of Example 1 is the highest, the uniform distribution tube 10 in the electrode frame structure has a wider uniform distribution area and a better uniform distribution effect, and the electrolyte flows independently in the grooves 12 of the two uniform distribution tubes 10 without mutual interference, thereby realizing more efficient electrolyte distribution.

[0112] In addition, the voltage efficiency and coulomb efficiency of the flow battery stacks of Example 1, Example 2 and Example 3 are also better than those of Example 4. This shows that the electrolyte distribution in these examples is more uniform, the concentration polarization is lower, and the electrolyte retention area is less, thereby inhibiting the occurrence of side reactions inside the stack to a certain extent.

[0113] By comparing Example 1, Example 2, Example 3 and Example 4, it can be clearly seen that the addition of the uniform distribution tube 10 in the electrochemical reaction zone 11 not only significantly improves the electrochemical performance of the flow battery stack, but also effectively solves the problem of easy falling off of the carbon felt electrode 15 during the assembly process of the stack, speeds up the process of the full-automatic production line of the flow battery stack, and reduces the full-life cycle cost.

[0114] Each embodiment in the specification is described in a progressive manner, and each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments. The same or similar parts between each embodiment can be referred to each other.

[0115] The liquid flow battery stack and electrode frame provided by the application are described in detail above. The principles and implementation manners of the application are described by applying specific examples in this paper, and the above description of the examples is only used to help understand the method of the application and the core idea thereof. It should be pointed out that, for those skilled in the art, some improvements and modifications can be made to the application without departing from the principles of the application, and these improvements and modifications also fall within the protection scope of the claims of the application. Therefore, the application will not be limited to the examples shown in this paper, but will be consistent with the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed in this paper.

Claims

1. An electrode frame, characterized in that: The invention comprises a main body plate (1) having a liquid inlet and a liquid outlet, a diversion flow channel (6) provided on the main body plate (1) and having a plurality of diversion openings, and an electrochemical reaction zone (11) provided between the liquid inlet diversion flow channel and the liquid outlet diversion flow channel, wherein the liquid inlet is connected to the liquid inlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone (11) through the liquid inlet diversion flow channel, and the liquid outlet is connected to the liquid outlet end of the electrochemical reaction zone (11) through the liquid outlet diversion flow channel; and further comprises at least one uniformly distributed tube (10) provided in the electrochemical reaction zone (11) for supporting a carbon felt electrode (15), wherein the liquid inlet opening of each uniformly distributed tube (10) is connected to a diversion opening of the liquid inlet diversion flow channel, and the liquid outlet opening is connected to a diversion opening of the liquid outlet diversion flow channel, and the side wall of the uniformly distributed tube (10) is provided with a liquid diversion opening (13) connected to the electrochemical reaction zone (11).

2. The electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that At least three of the diversion openings on the liquid inlet diversion flow channel and the liquid outlet diversion flow channel are connected to the liquid inlet opening or the liquid outlet opening of the uniform distribution pipe (10) to achieve surface support for the carbon felt electrode (15); The liquid inlet opening and the liquid outlet opening of the uniform distribution pipe (10) are both connected to the diversion port located near the side edge of the diversion channel (6).

3. The electrode frame according to claim 2, characterized in that: The evenly distributed tube (10) is a hook-shaped tube, the fork between its two ends is toward the side of the electrochemical reaction zone (11), the evenly distributed tube (10) extends from the side edge end of the electrochemical reaction zone (11) to the central area of ​​the electrochemical reaction zone (11), the distance of the fork gradually narrows from the side edge to the middle of the electrochemical reaction zone (11), and there is a hook-shaped tube on each side of the electrochemical reaction zone (11).

4. The electrode frame according to claim 3, characterized in that There is a gap between the evenly distributed tubes (10) on both sides, and the evenly distributed tubes (10) on both sides are connected at ends close to each other through a transverse connecting rod, and the evenly distributed tubes (10) on both sides are symmetrically distributed.

5. The electrode frame according to claim 2, characterized in that: The uniformly distributed tube (10) is an X-shaped tube, provided with two liquid inlet openings and two liquid outlet openings, and the four openings are interconnected at the intersection of the X-shaped tube, and the intersection of the X-shaped tube is located at the center of the electrochemical reaction zone (11).

6. The electrode frame according to claim 2, characterized in that: The uniformly distributed tube (10) comprises at least two straight tubes for supporting both ends of the carbon felt electrode (15).

7. The electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that The uniform distribution pipe (10) includes a connecting plate connecting the diversion port of the liquid inlet diversion channel and the diversion port of the liquid outlet diversion channel, the upper surface of the connecting plate is provided with a groove (12) along its length direction, the liquid separation port (13) is provided on the side wall of the groove (12), and the spacing between adjacent liquid separation ports (13) gradually increases from the side edge away from the electrochemical reaction zone (11) to the side edge close to the electrochemical reaction zone (11).

8. The electrode frame according to claim 7, characterized in that: A groove is provided on the main plate (1) to form the diverter channel (6); the upper surface and the lower surface of the connecting plate are flush with the upper surface and the lower surface of the diverter channel (6), respectively; the bottom surface of the groove (12) is lower than the upper surface of the diverter channel (6); and the upper surface of the diverter channel (6) is lower than the upper surface of the main plate (1).

9. The electrode frame according to claim 7, characterized in that: The width of the connecting plate is greater than or equal to the width of the diversion port connected thereto, and the width of the groove (12) is less than the width of the diversion port connected thereto.

10. A liquid flow battery stack, characterized in that: The invention relates to a plurality of single cells connected in series, wherein the single cells include an electrode frame, a carbon felt electrode (15), a bipolar plate (16), a carbon felt electrode (15), an electrode frame and a proton exchange membrane (17) arranged from bottom to top, wherein both sides of the carbon felt electrode (15) are respectively supported on the uniformly distributed tubes (10) of the electrode frame on both sides, and the electrode frame is specifically the electrode frame according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

Images