Flow Battery Rebalancing Cell for SOC and Osmotic Balance
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Aqueous organic flow batteries face challenges in maintaining state of charge (SOC) balance due to oxygen reactions, leading to capacity imbalances and potential cell failure, with existing rebalancing methods being costly, complex, or introducing osmotic imbalances.
Innovation Solution
A rebalancing cell system that uses electrochemical processes to adjust the SOC of redox flow battery reactants by applying electrical potential across electrodes, producing oxygen and counteracting oxygen absorption, while maintaining osmotic balance through careful electrolyte management.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If oxygen reactions are allowed to occur in the flow battery system, then the battery can operate under realistic conditions with open electrolyte tanks, but SOC balance deteriorates leading to capacity imbalances
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes oxygen from the electrolyte solution using a dedicated oxygen removal device. This device selectively removes dissolved oxygen from the electrolyte without removing other necessary components, thereby preventing SOC imbalance while allowing the system to operate with open tanks under realistic conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary substance or device that mediates between the electrolyte and oxygen. This intermediary selectively interacts with oxygen to remove it from the system, preventing harmful reactions while allowing the electrolyte to remain accessible and operational.
2Reliability
If existing rebalancing methods are used to correct SOC imbalance, then SOC balance can be restored, but system cost and complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a self-service mechanism where the oxygen removal device automatically maintains oxygen-free conditions in the electrolyte without requiring external intervention or complex control systems. The system self-regulates to prevent SOC imbalance before it occurs, eliminating the need for complex rebalancing equipment.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs a cost-effective oxygen removal mechanism that uses inexpensive materials or methods rather than expensive, complex rebalancing systems. The solution prioritizes simplicity and low cost over sophisticated technology, making the system economically viable.
3Reliability
If existing rebalancing methods are used to correct SOC imbalance, then SOC balance can be restored, but osmotic imbalances are introduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent selectively extracts only oxygen from the electrolyte solution using a specialized removal device that distinguishes oxygen from other electrolyte components. This selective extraction maintains the osmotic balance of the electrolyte while removing the harmful oxygen that causes SOC imbalance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies a localized treatment to the electrolyte that specifically targets oxygen removal at certain locations or conditions without affecting the overall composition or osmotic properties of the electrolyte. This localized approach preserves osmotic balance while correcting SOC imbalance.
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 system effectively maintains SOC balance, extends battery capacity, and prevents cell failure by continuously or intermittently operating the rebalancing cell, ensuring long-term operation without adding flammability, complexity, or cost, while maintaining osmotic neutrality.
Implementation Method 1
A first electrochemical system is described herein comprising a redox flow battery and a second electrochemical system comprising a rebalancing cell
Implementation Method 2
uses electrochemical processes to adjust the SOC of redox flow battery reactants by applying electrical potential across electrodes, producing oxygen
Implementation Method 3
producing oxygen and counteracting oxygen absorption
Implementation Method 4
The rebalancing cell comprises a first chamber and a second chamber separated by an ion-selective membrane
Data Source
AI summary
Improvements to flow battery systems are described herein that maintain the state of charge of such batteries while maintaining osmotic pressure within the battery itself Flow batteries and methods for maintaining state of charge therein are disclosed herein that do not require the use of flammable hydrogen stores or complex power supply apparatuses. The redox flow better system comprises a first tank containing negolyte and a second tank containing posolyte and a rebalancing apparatus comprising a first and second electrode.