Transition Metal Cluster Electrolytes for High-Density Redox Flow Batteries
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current redox flow batteries face challenges such as low energy density, rapid capacity fade, and difficulties in scaling up due to limitations in available redox-active materials, particularly in terms of molecular size and mass transport.
Innovation Solution
Development of novel cluster compounds comprising transition metals, which offer multiple redox centers and improved electron transfer rates, thereby enhancing energy density and power density. These cluster compounds are designed to be more soluble and stable in electrolyte solutions, addressing previous limitations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If cluster compounds are used to increase energy density through multiple redox centers, then energy density is improved, but solubility deteriorates leading to lowered electrolyte energy density
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the organic ligand structures (different carboxylic acids, phenols, or their combinations) coordinated to the metal atoms. This modifies the chemical and physical parameters of the cluster compounds, including their solubility characteristics, while preserving the multiple redox centers. The ligand composition and stoichiometry are adjusted to optimize both energy density and solubility in aqueous electrolyte solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by creating cluster compounds with complex structures consisting of metal atoms (Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cr, V) combined with various organic ligands (carboxylic acids, phenols). These composite cluster structures integrate multiple functional components within a single molecule, providing both the redox activity needed for high energy density and the solubility properties required for electrolyte application.
2Quantity of substance
If conventional redox-active materials are used, then device complexity is reduced, but energy density and power density are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the organic ligand structures (different carboxylic acids, phenols, or their combinations) coordinated to the metal atoms. This modifies the chemical and physical parameters of the cluster compounds, including their solubility characteristics, while preserving the multiple redox centers. The ligand composition and stoichiometry are adjusted to optimize both energy density and solubility in aqueous electrolyte solutions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs composite materials by creating cluster compounds with complex structures consisting of metal atoms (Fe, Mn, Co, Ni, Cu, Zn, Cr, V) combined with various organic ligands (carboxylic acids, phenols). These composite cluster structures integrate multiple functional components within a single molecule, providing both the redox activity needed for high energy density and the solubility properties required for electrolyte application.
3Power
If high surface area felt electrodes are used to mitigate low specific power density, then power density is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by systematically varying the organic ligand structures (different carboxylic acids, phenols, or their combinations) coordinated to the metal atoms. This modifies the chemical and physical parameters of the cluster compounds, including their solubility characteristics, while preserving the multiple redox centers. The ligand composition and stoichiometry are adjusted to optimize both energy density and solubility in aqueous electrolyte solutions.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The use of cluster compounds significantly increases the energy density and solubility of electrolytes, allowing for improved charge carrier properties and enhanced performance in redox flow batteries, including increased stability and scalability.
Implementation Method 1
RFBs operate based on reversible electrochemical reactions involving redox-active species, which are dissolved in separate electrolyte solutions (catholyte and anolyte). These redox reactions facilitate the storage and release of electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
a charged or non-charged complex, and optionally a plurality of counterions, the (charged or non-charged) complex comprising metal atoms M and one or more types of ligands
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to novel cluster compounds particularly suitable for electrochemical applications as well the synthesis and use thereof in redox flow batteries, photocatalysis and medical applications. The cluster compounds of the present invention comprise a charged or non-charged complex as well as an optional plurality of counterions and provide high charge densities in aqueous electrolytes.