A flow battery electrode frame based on biomimetic flow channels

Abstract

The specification provides a liquid flow battery electrode frame based on a bionic flow channel, comprising a main frame, a liquid inlet arranged at a lower end of a front surface of the main frame and a liquid outlet arranged at an upper end of the main frame, and an electrode reaction area arranged in a middle part of the main frame; the liquid inlet is communicated with a plurality of helical equidistantly arranged liquid inlet primary branch flow channels, a plurality of liquid inlet straight flow channels and a plurality of gradually changed liquid inlet secondary branch flow channels through a liquid inlet main flow channel in sequence, the liquid inlet primary branch flow channels, the liquid inlet straight flow channels and the liquid inlet secondary branch flow channels correspond to each other; the liquid outlet is communicated with a plurality of helical equidistantly arranged liquid outlet primary branch flow channels, a plurality of liquid outlet straight flow channels and a plurality of gradually changed liquid outlet secondary branch flow channels through a liquid outlet main flow channel in sequence, the liquid outlet primary branch flow channels, the liquid outlet straight flow channels and the liquid outlet secondary branch flow channels correspond to each other. The above scheme can realize uniform distribution of electrolyte, low resistance flow and efficient mass transfer.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This specification relates to the field of flow battery technology, and in particular to a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel. Background Technology

[0002] As a core device in the field of large-scale energy storage, flow batteries (such as vanadium redox flow batteries) have an electrode frame that is a key carrier for electrolyte circulation and electrochemical reaction. The flow state and distribution uniformity of the electrolyte within the electrode frame directly determine the energy conversion efficiency, operational stability and service life of the battery.

[0003] In existing technologies, the flow channel structure of flow battery electrode frames has several problems that urgently need to be addressed. For example, existing technology one uses a "buffered flow channel + raised split channel" structure, relying on parallelogram and rectangular protrusions to achieve electrolyte splitting. However, the flow channel lacks biomimetic design, the flow path is short, and there is a lack of precise control over the flow rate, resulting in limited electrolyte mixing and mass transfer effects and the risk of local concentration polarization. Existing technology two uses a serpentine split channel combined with a semi-circular connecting channel to reduce resistance, but the semi-circular connection is only used in adjacent reverse flow channels. The overall flow channel lacks a graded design and relies on baffles for flow splitting, which easily creates local flow dead zones, and the contact time and uniformity between the electrolyte and the electrode are insufficient. In summary, the flow channels of existing flow battery electrode frames lack a full-process biomimetic collaborative design, resulting in problems such as high flow resistance, weak electrolyte mixing and mass transfer capabilities, and insufficient distribution uniformity. This easily leads to flow dead zones and concentration polarization, affecting the energy conversion efficiency and operational stability of the battery.

[0004] There is currently no effective solution to the above problems. Utility Model Content

[0005] This specification provides a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel to address the problems of existing flow battery electrode frames, such as the lack of a full-process biomimetic collaborative design in the flow channel, resulting in high flow resistance, weak electrolyte mixing and mass transfer capabilities, and insufficient distribution uniformity.

[0006] To solve the above technical problems, this specification provides a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel, including a main frame, an inlet at the lower end of the front surface of the main frame and an outlet at the upper end, which are arranged at opposite angles. An electrode reaction zone is provided in the middle of the main frame.

[0007] The liquid inlet is connected in sequence to a plurality of spirally arranged primary liquid inlet channels, a plurality of direct liquid inlet channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary liquid inlet channels, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone. The primary liquid inlet channels, direct liquid inlet channels, and secondary liquid inlet channels correspond one-to-one.

[0008] The liquid outlet is connected in sequence to a plurality of spirally arranged primary liquid distribution channels, a plurality of liquid direct channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary liquid distribution channels that are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone through the main liquid outlet channel. The primary liquid distribution channels, liquid direct channels, and secondary liquid distribution channels correspond one-to-one.

[0009] In some embodiments, the main frame is provided with frame screw positioning holes at the four corners, and the inner side of the frame screw positioning holes is provided with cover plate positioning pin holes.

[0010] In some embodiments, the inlet and outlet are circular interfaces, the inlet is matched with the width of the main inlet channel, and the outlet is matched with the width of the main outlet channel.

[0011] In some embodiments, the main inlet channel and the main outlet channel are semi-circular channels. The main inlet channel extends along the surface of the main frame from the inlet to the first-stage inlet branch channel, and the main outlet channel extends along the surface of the main frame from the outlet to the first-stage outlet branch channel.

[0012] In some embodiments, the number of primary inlet and primary outlet channels is 6-15.

[0013] In some embodiments, the inlet direct flow channel and the outlet direct flow channel are semi-circular channels, the inlet direct flow channel is located between the primary inlet branch channel and the secondary inlet branch channel, and the outlet direct flow channel is located between the primary outlet branch channel and the secondary outlet branch channel.

[0014] In some embodiments, the number of the inlet secondary diversion channel and the outlet secondary diversion channel is 12-18.

[0015] In some embodiments, the diameters of the inlet secondary diversion channel and the outlet secondary diversion channel gradually decrease from the outer side away from the electrode reaction zone to the inner side closer to the electrode reaction zone.

[0016] In some embodiments, the inner surfaces of the main inlet channel, the main outlet channel, the primary inlet branch channel, the primary outlet branch channel, the direct inlet channel, the direct outlet channel, the secondary inlet branch channel, and the secondary outlet branch channel are coated.

[0017] In some embodiments, the coating is a hydrophilic coating, the main component of which is a composite material of polyvinyl alcohol and nano-silica, and the thickness of the hydrophilic coating is 0.2 mm.

[0018] This specification provides an embodiment of a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel, comprising: a main frame, an inlet at a relatively oblique angle at the lower end of the front surface of the main frame, and an outlet at the upper end; an electrode reaction zone is provided in the middle of the main frame; the inlet is connected sequentially to a plurality of spirally arranged primary inlet channels, a plurality of direct inlet channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary inlet channels, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone, through a main inlet channel; the primary inlet channels, direct inlet channels, and secondary inlet channels are each corresponding to one other; the outlet is connected sequentially to a plurality of spirally arranged primary outlet channels, a plurality of direct outlet channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary outlet channels, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone, through a main outlet channel; the primary outlet channels, direct outlet channels, and secondary outlet channels are each corresponding to one other. In the embodiments described in this specification, a full-process hierarchical biomimetic structure is adopted, consisting of "angled inlet / outlet + main channel + spirally arranged equidistant primary distribution channels + direct current channel + gradually changing secondary distribution channels." The electrolyte can flow in obliquely from the inlet, be transported through the main channel, uniformly distributed through the spiral primary distribution channels, smoothly transitioned through the direct current channel, and precisely distributed through the gradually changing secondary distribution channels. Ultimately, the electrolyte can cover the entire electrode reaction zone with a uniform flow rate and distribution, effectively solving problems such as high flow resistance, uneven electrolyte distribution leading to localized concentration polarization, and excessively high temperatures in existing technologies. Specifically, the equidistant arrangement of the primary distribution channels achieves initial uniform distribution, while the spiral structure generates a certain swirling effect during electrolyte flow, enhancing its mixing and mass transfer effects. Simultaneously, the spiral structure extends the flow path, increasing the contact time between the electrolyte and the electrode, thereby improving electrode reaction efficiency. The direct current channel ensures a smooth transition of the electrolyte after diversion, while the gradual two-stage diversion channel can precisely control the flow rate and velocity of each channel through gradual size changes, ultimately allowing the electrolyte to uniformly and densely cover the entire electrode reaction area. Attached Figure Description

[0019] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments or prior art of this specification, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are only some embodiments recorded in this specification. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort. In the drawings:

[0020] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel, provided in the embodiments of this specification.

[0021] Figure 2 The embodiments provided in this specification Figure 1 A magnified view of part A in the image;

[0022] Figure 3This is a top view of the electrode frame of the flow battery based on a biomimetic flow channel provided in this embodiment.

[0023] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached diagram: 1. Main frame; 2. Liquid inlet; 3. Liquid outlet; 4. Main liquid inlet channel; 5. Primary liquid inlet branch channel; 6. Coating; 7. Direct liquid inlet channel; 8. Secondary liquid inlet branch channel; 9. Frame screw positioning hole; 10. Cover plate positioning post hole; 11. Main liquid outlet channel; 12. Primary liquid outlet branch channel; 13. Direct liquid outlet channel; 14. Secondary liquid outlet branch channel. Detailed Implementation

[0024] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions in this specification, the technical solutions in the embodiments of this specification will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this specification, and not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments in this specification, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort should fall within the scope of protection of this specification.

[0025] A flow battery (such as a vanadium redox flow battery) is a redox battery that uses vanadium as the active material in a circulating liquid state. The electrical energy of the vanadium battery is stored as chemical energy in a sulfuric acid electrolyte containing vanadium ions in different valence states. An external pump pumps the electrolyte into the battery stack, where it circulates in a closed loop between different storage tanks and half-cells under mechanical power. A proton exchange membrane is used as the separator of the battery pack. The electrolyte solution flows parallel across the electrode surface and undergoes an electrochemical reaction. The current is collected and conducted through a dual electrode plate, thereby converting the chemical energy stored in the solution into electrical energy.

[0026] The flow frame (electrode frame of a flow battery) is the necessary flow area for introducing the electrolyte from the storage tank to the porous electrode. Whether the electrolyte can be reasonably and evenly distributed in the reaction area of ​​the porous electrode is of great significance. If the electrolyte is not evenly distributed, the flow resistance will be large, which will greatly reduce the unit current density of the electrode, cause concentration polarization of varying degrees, reduce the local temperature of the stack to an excessively high level, or even cause it to burn out, and reduce the reaction efficiency.

[0027] The existing flow battery electrode frame lacks a full-process biomimetic collaborative design, resulting in problems such as high flow resistance, weak electrolyte mixing and mass transfer capacity, and insufficient distribution uniformity. It is prone to generating flow dead zones and concentration polarization, which affect the energy conversion efficiency and operational stability of the battery.

[0028] In view of the above-mentioned problems in existing methods and the specific reasons for these problems, this application proposes to introduce a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel, which can effectively improve the uniformity of the contact distribution between the fluid (electrolyte) and the electrode reaction zone, extend the flow path, reduce the flow resistance of the fluid, and greatly improve the efficiency of the electrode reaction.

[0029] This specification provides an example of a flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel. For specific implementation details, please refer to [reference needed]. Figure 1 As shown, it may include a main frame 1, an inlet 2 and an outlet 3 located at opposite angles at the lower end of the front surface of the main frame 1, and an electrode reaction zone is provided in the middle of the main frame 1.

[0030] The liquid inlet 2 is connected in sequence to multiple spirally arranged primary liquid inlet channels 5, multiple direct liquid inlet channels 7, and multiple gradually changing secondary liquid inlet channels 8, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction area through the main liquid inlet channel 4. The primary liquid inlet channels 5, direct liquid inlet channels 7, and secondary liquid inlet channels 8 correspond one-to-one.

[0031] The liquid outlet 3 is connected in sequence to a plurality of spirally arranged primary liquid outlet channels 12, a plurality of liquid outlet direct channels 13 and a plurality of gradually changing secondary liquid outlet channels 14, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone, through the main liquid outlet channel 11. The primary liquid outlet channels 12, the liquid outlet direct channels 13 and the secondary liquid outlet channels 14 correspond one-to-one.

[0032] Specifically, the flow battery electrode frame (electrode frame structure) based on biomimetic flow channels allows liquid to enter through the inlet on the main frame. After entering, the liquid flows through the main inlet channel into multiple primary inlet distribution channels, achieving flow diversion, extending the flow path, and generating a certain swirling reaction. The incoming fluid flows into the direct inlet channel and is discharged into the secondary inlet distribution channel, achieving uniform and high-speed discharge of the fluid into the electrode reaction area in the middle of the main frame, improving reaction efficiency. After the reaction, the fluid is discharged sequentially through the secondary outlet distribution channel, the direct outlet channel, the primary outlet distribution channel, the main outlet channel, and the outlet. Compared with existing technologies, this improves the uniformity of fluid contact distribution with the electrode area, extends the path, reduces fluid flow resistance, and greatly improves the efficiency of the electrode reaction.

[0033] In some embodiments, the main frame 1 is provided with frame screw positioning holes 9 at its four corners, and the inner side of the frame screw positioning holes 9 is provided with cover plate positioning pin holes 10.

[0034] Specifically, the aforementioned flow battery can be a vanadium redox flow battery. The main frame 1 can serve as the basic component of the entire electrode frame of the vanadium redox flow battery. Frame screw positioning holes 9 are provided at each of the four corners of the main frame 1 for connecting screws and assembling with the battery stack. Simultaneously, cover plate positioning post holes 10 are provided inside the frame screw positioning holes 9 at the four corners. These cover plate positioning post holes 10 are located on the main frame 1 and are used to position the positioning posts, ensuring precise fit between the electrode frame and the cover plate.

[0035] The frame screw positioning hole 9 and cover plate positioning post hole 10 on the main frame 1 facilitate the rapid assembly and precise positioning of the electrode frame and the battery stack, effectively improving the assembly efficiency and reliability of the battery.

[0036] In some embodiments, the inlet 2 and outlet 3 are circular interfaces, the inlet 2 is matched with the width of the main inlet channel 4, and the outlet 3 is matched with the width of the main outlet channel 11.

[0037] Specifically, the inlet 2 is located at a relatively oblique angle at the lower end of the front surface of the main frame 1 (e.g., the lower right corner), and the outlet 3 is located at a relatively oblique angle at the upper end of the front surface of the main frame 1 (e.g., the upper left corner). The inlet 2 can be connected to the main inlet channel 4 and its width matches that of the main inlet channel 4, allowing electrolyte to flow into the main inlet channel 4. The outlet 3 can be connected to the main outlet channel 11 and its width matches that of the main outlet channel 11, allowing electrolyte to flow out from the outlet 3. Both the inlet 2 and the outlet 3 use circular interfaces.

[0038] By using a circular interface design and ensuring compatibility with the width of the main channel, turbulent losses of the electrolyte at the junction of the inlet / outlet and the main channel can be reduced. This avoids sudden changes in local resistance caused by improper interface shape or size mismatch, ensuring smooth inflow and outflow of the electrolyte and improving flow continuity.

[0039] In some embodiments, the above-mentioned inlet main channel 4 and outlet main channel 11 are semi-circular channels. The inlet main channel 4 extends along the surface of the main frame 1 from the inlet port 2 to the inlet primary diversion channel 5, and the outlet main channel 11 extends along the surface of the main frame 1 from the outlet port 3 to the outlet primary diversion channel 12.

[0040] Specifically, the inlet main channel 4 and the outlet main channel 11 are constructed as channels with a semi-circular cross-section. One end of the inlet main channel 4 smoothly connects to the inlet port 2, and the other end extends in a straight line along the lower edge of the main frame 1 until it reaches the position of the primary inlet branch channel 5 (i.e., the position formed by all the primary inlet branch channels). One end of the outlet main channel 11 smoothly connects to the outlet port 3, and the other end extends in a straight line along the upper edge of the main frame 1 until it reaches the position of the primary outlet branch channel 12 (i.e., the position formed by all the primary outlet branch channels).

[0041] By designing a semi-circular main channel, drawing inspiration from the shape of biological flow channels such as human blood vessels, the semi-circular channel has a larger radius of curvature and lower wall friction loss. This reduces resistance to electrolyte flow, resulting in smoother fluid flow. Furthermore, for the same cross-sectional area, the semi-circular channel has a shorter perimeter, reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost, while also minimizing friction loss on the channel walls. By clearly defining the extension path of the main channel, precise delivery of electrolyte to the corresponding primary branch channels can be ensured, preventing channel misalignment and further optimizing flow efficiency.

[0042] In some embodiments, the number of the above-mentioned inlet primary diversion channel 5 and outlet primary diversion channel 12 is 6-15.

[0043] Specifically, the primary inlet channel 5 is connected to the main inlet channel 4, and the number of such channels is between 6 and 15. The primary outlet channel 12 is connected to the main outlet channel 11, and the number of such channels is between 6 and 15. The primary inlet channel 5 and the primary outlet channel 12 are arranged in a spiral pattern on the front surface of the main frame 1, and the channels are evenly spaced. The spiral flow channel design is inspired by the spiral flow channel structure in biological organisms, which can prolong the flow path of the electrolyte within the electrode frame, increase the contact time between the electrolyte and the electrode, thereby improving the electrode reaction efficiency. At the same time, the spiral flow channel can also generate a certain swirling effect in the electrolyte during flow, further enhancing its mixing and mass transfer effect. The spiral-like structure is also helpful for the transmission and processing of sound signals.

[0044] By designing 6-15 primary inlet and outlet diversion channels 5 and 12, a balance is struck between uniform diversion and flow resistance. Too few channels result in poor diversion, while too many channels can easily lead to channel blockage. This range ensures that each channel receives a uniform flow rate while maintaining a low-resistance flow state.

[0045] In some embodiments, the liquid inlet direct channel 7 and the liquid outlet direct channel 13 are semi-circular channels. The liquid inlet direct channel 7 is located between the primary liquid inlet branch channel 5 and the secondary liquid inlet branch channel 8, and the liquid outlet direct channel 13 is located between the primary liquid outlet branch channel 12 and the secondary liquid outlet branch channel 14.

[0046] Specifically, the inlet direct channel 7 is connected to the primary inlet branch channel 5, and the outlet direct channel 13 is connected to the primary outlet branch channel 12. The inlet direct channel 7 and the outlet direct channel 13 are located on the front surface of the main frame 1, between the primary and secondary branch channels. That is, the inlet direct channel 7 is located between the primary inlet branch channel 5 and the secondary inlet branch channel 8, and the outlet direct channel 13 is located between the primary outlet branch channel 12 and the secondary outlet branch channel 14. The inlet direct channel 7 and the outlet direct channel 13 are semi-circular channels, serving to connect the primary and secondary branch channels and guide the flow direction of the electrolyte.

[0047] By designing a semi-circular direct-flow channel, a smooth connection between the primary and secondary flow branches can be achieved, avoiding eddies and pressure losses at flow channel bends. Simultaneously, it synergizes with the semi-circular structure of the main flow channel to create a low-resistance channel throughout the entire process, further reducing overall flow resistance.

[0048] In some embodiments, the number of the above-mentioned inlet secondary diversion channel 8 and outlet secondary diversion channel 14 is 12-18.

[0049] In some embodiments, the diameters of the above-mentioned inlet secondary diversion channel 8 and outlet secondary diversion channel 14 gradually decrease from the outer side away from the electrode reaction zone to the inner side closer to the electrode reaction zone.

[0050] Specifically, the secondary inlet channel 8 is connected to the direct inlet channel 7, and the secondary outlet channel 14 is connected to the direct outlet channel 13. These channels are evenly distributed on the front surface of the main frame 1 near the electrode reaction area, with a number ranging from 12 to 18. The diameters of the secondary inlet channel 8 and the secondary outlet channel 14 gradually decrease from the outer side to the inner side, i.e., the side closer to the electrode reaction area. This gradual flow channel design is similar to the variation in flow from the river mouth to the upper reaches of the river. A wider channel is used at the inlet to reduce fluid inlet resistance. As the fluid penetrates deeper into the electrode reaction area, the channel width gradually decreases, causing the fluid velocity to gradually increase. This enhances the scouring effect on the electrode surface, improves mass transfer efficiency, and better adapts to the flow characteristics of the electrolyte within the electrode frame.

[0051] By designing 12-18 secondary inlet and outlet channels (8 and 14), the coverage requirements of the electrode reaction zone are met. Compared to the primary channel, the increased number of channels allows for precise electrolyte distribution, ensuring that each area of ​​the electrode reaction zone receives sufficient electrolyte and avoiding incomplete local reactions.

[0052] In some embodiments, the inner surfaces of the above-mentioned main inlet channel 4, main outlet channel 11, primary inlet branch channel 5, primary outlet branch channel 12, direct inlet channel 7, direct outlet channel 13, secondary inlet branch channel 8, and secondary outlet branch channel 14 are provided with a coating 6.

[0053] In some embodiments, the coating 6 described above is a hydrophilic coating, the main component of which is a composite material of polyvinyl alcohol and nano-silica, and the thickness of the hydrophilic coating is 0.2 mm.

[0054] Specifically, coating 6 is applied to the inner surfaces of the main inlet channel 4, the main outlet channel 11, the primary inlet branch channel 5, the primary outlet branch channel 12, the direct inlet channel 7, the direct outlet channel 13, the secondary inlet branch channel 8, and the secondary outlet branch channel 14. (See reference...) Figure 2 As shown, coating 6 is applied to the inner surfaces of the primary liquid inlet channel 5, the direct liquid inlet channel 7, etc.

[0055] In this embodiment, coating 6 is a hydrophilic coating, whose main components are a composite material of polyvinyl alcohol and nano-silica. It is uniformly coated on the inner surface of the flow channel through a coating process, and the coating thickness is 0.2 mm. This hydrophilic coating can make the flow channel surface have good hydrophilicity, reduce the contact angle between the electrolyte and the flow channel surface, thereby reducing the resistance to fluid flow and improving the wettability and fluidity of the fluid. At the same time, the coating also has a certain degree of corrosion resistance and stability, and can adapt to the working environment of vanadium redox flow batteries. Hydrophobic coatings can also be selected according to actual use. Hydrophobic coatings can effectively prevent electrolyte leakage at the edge or connection of the flow channel, improve the safety and reliability of the battery, and avoid problems such as short circuits caused by electrolyte leakage.

[0056] See below. Figures 1-3 The working principle and usage steps of the above-mentioned biomimetic flow battery electrode frame are explained as follows:

[0057] (I) Working Principle

[0058] The electrolyte enters the electrode frame structure through the inlet 2, first flowing into the main inlet channel 4, where it begins to flow and gradually distributes. Subsequently, the electrolyte flows into multiple primary inlet distribution channels 5. Since the primary inlet distribution channels 5 are spiral-shaped and evenly distributed, the flow path of the electrolyte is extended during this process, generating a certain swirling effect, which allows the electrolyte to mix and transfer mass more thoroughly. Next, the electrolyte flows from the primary inlet distribution channels 5 into the direct inlet channel 7. The direct inlet channel 7 guides the electrolyte further toward the electrode reaction area and distributes it into each secondary inlet distribution channel 8.

[0059] The diameter of the secondary liquid inlet channel 8 gradually decreases from the outside to the inside. This design allows the electrolyte to gradually increase its flow rate when entering the electrode reaction area, thereby enhancing the scouring effect on the electrode surface and improving the mass transfer efficiency. Finally, the electrolyte is uniformly and rapidly discharged into the electrode reaction area in the middle of the main frame 1 through the secondary liquid inlet channel 8, where an electrochemical reaction occurs on the electrode surface.

[0060] After the reaction, the electrolyte is discharged from the electrode frame structure through the secondary outlet channel 14, the direct outlet channel 13, the primary outlet channel 12, the main outlet channel 11, and the outlet 3. The design of the secondary outlet channel 14, the direct outlet channel 13, the primary outlet channel 12, and the main outlet channel 11 is similar to that of the corresponding inlet channels, which also play the role of uniformly collecting and guiding the electrolyte out of the body. In addition, the coating 6 inside can also reduce the resistance to electrolyte flow, ensuring that the electrolyte is smoothly discharged from the electrode frame and completing the entire electrolyte circulation process.

[0061] (II) Usage Steps

[0062] Assembly: First, place the main frame 1 on a flat workbench, connect the screw through the frame screw positioning hole 9, and fix it in the corresponding position of the battery stack. At the same time, use the cover plate positioning post hole 10 to cooperate with the positioning post to install the cover plate, ensuring that the electrode frame structure and the battery stack fit tightly together to form a complete battery unit.

[0063] Connecting pipes: Connect the electrolyte circulation pipes of the vanadium redox flow battery to the inlet 2 and outlet 3 on the electrode frame structure respectively, ensuring that the connection is well sealed and leak-free. The diameters of the inlet and outlet pipes should match the dimensions of inlet 2 and outlet 3. Use corrosion-resistant rubber or plastic pipes and fix them with clamps to prevent electrolyte leakage during circulation.

[0064] Start-up circulation: Before the battery is put into operation, start the electrolyte circulation pump to allow the electrolyte to circulate between the storage tank and the electrode frame. Observe the flow of the electrolyte and check for leaks in the pipes and electrode frame structure. If a leak is found, stop the pump immediately and deal with it. At the same time, adjust the flow rate of the circulation pump to keep the flow rate of the electrolyte in the electrode frame within the design range, ensuring that the electrolyte can be evenly distributed in the electrode reaction area and fully participate in the electrochemical reaction.

[0065] Through the above embodiments, the present invention can achieve the following beneficial effects:

[0066] This invention relates to a biomimetic flow battery electrode frame. By optimizing the flow channel design and employing biomimetic structures such as a semi-circular channel, a spiral primary flow channel, and a gradually changing secondary flow channel, the electrolyte achieves uniform distribution and efficient flow within the electrode frame. This improves the uniformity of contact distribution between the electrolyte and the electrode reaction area, extends the electrolyte flow path, and reduces flow resistance, thereby significantly improving the efficiency of the electrode reaction. It also effectively reduces concentration polarization, minimizes the risk of excessively high local temperatures in the stack, and enhances the overall performance and stability of the vanadium redox flow battery.

[0067] The hydrophilic coating 6 installed inside the flow channel further reduces the contact angle between the electrolyte and the flow channel surface, reduces the resistance to fluid flow, and improves the wettability and fluidity of the fluid. At the same time, the coating has good corrosion resistance and stability, adapts to the working environment of the vanadium redox flow battery, and extends the service life of the electrode frame.

[0068] The frame screw positioning hole 9 and cover plate positioning post hole 10 on the main frame 1 facilitate the rapid assembly and precise positioning of the electrode frame and the battery stack, thereby improving the assembly efficiency and reliability of the battery.

[0069] In summary, the biomimetic flow channel-based flow battery electrode frame of this invention fully draws on the characteristics of biological flow channels in its design. Through reasonable structural layout and material selection, it optimizes the flow characteristics of the electrolyte, improves the performance and service life of the battery, and has good assemblability and expandability, thus possessing significant application value and market prospects.

[0070] The various embodiments in this specification are described in a progressive manner. Similar or identical parts between embodiments can be referred to mutually. Each embodiment focuses on describing the differences from other embodiments. In particular, system embodiments are basically similar to method embodiments, so the description is relatively simple; relevant parts can be referred to the descriptions in the method embodiments. In the description of this specification, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described in connection with that embodiment or example, which are included in at least one embodiment or example of the embodiments in this specification. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification and the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0071] The above description is merely an embodiment of the present specification and is not intended to limit the embodiments of the present specification. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and variations can be made to the embodiments of the present specification. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principle of the embodiments of the present specification should be included within the scope of the claims of the embodiments of the present specification.

Claims

1. A flow battery electrode frame based on a biomimetic flow channel, characterized in that, It includes a main frame, an inlet at the lower end of the front surface of the main frame at an angle to each other, and an outlet at the upper end. An electrode reaction zone is provided in the middle of the main frame. The liquid inlet is connected in sequence to a plurality of spirally arranged primary liquid inlet channels, a plurality of direct liquid inlet channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary liquid inlet channels, which are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone. The primary liquid inlet channels, direct liquid inlet channels, and secondary liquid inlet channels correspond one-to-one. The liquid outlet is connected in sequence to a plurality of spirally arranged primary liquid distribution channels, a plurality of liquid direct channels, and a plurality of gradually changing secondary liquid distribution channels that are gradually approaching the electrode reaction zone through the main liquid outlet channel. The primary liquid distribution channels, liquid direct channels, and secondary liquid distribution channels correspond one-to-one.

2. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main frame has frame screw positioning holes at its four corners, and a cover plate positioning post hole is provided inside the frame screw positioning hole.

3. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inlet and outlet are circular interfaces. The width of the inlet is matched with the width of the main inlet channel, and the width of the outlet is matched with the width of the main outlet channel.

4. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The main inlet channel and the main outlet channel are semi-circular channels. The main inlet channel extends along the surface of the main frame from the inlet to the first-stage inlet branch channel, and the main outlet channel extends along the surface of the main frame from the outlet to the first-stage outlet branch channel.

5. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of primary inlet and outlet channels is 6-15.

6. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The liquid inlet direct channel and the liquid outlet direct channel are semi-circular channels. The liquid inlet direct channel is located between the primary liquid inlet branch channel and the secondary liquid inlet branch channel, and the liquid outlet direct channel is located between the primary liquid outlet branch channel and the secondary liquid outlet branch channel.

7. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The number of inlet and outlet secondary diversion channels is 12-18.

8. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The diameters of the inlet and outlet secondary diversion channels gradually decrease from the outer side away from the electrode reaction zone to the inner side closer to the electrode reaction zone.

9. The flow battery electrode frame according to claim 1, characterized in that, The inner surfaces of the main inlet channel, main outlet channel, primary inlet branch channel, primary outlet branch channel, direct inlet channel, direct outlet channel, secondary inlet branch channel, and secondary outlet branch channel are coated.

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