Fluorenone Anolyte Additives for Higher Redox Flow Battery Current Density

A proton transfer catalyst is introduced as an intermediary substance that mediates the proton-coupled electron transfer process. The catalyst facilitates the formation of radical anion intermediates by accepting protons from fluorenol during oxidation, thereby increasing both the formation rate and concentration of radical anions, which directly improves current density and rate capability without compromising battery reliability

The addition of proton transfer catalyst changes the kinetic parameters of the electrochemical reaction. By introducing the catalyst, the reaction pathway is modified to proceed through a lower energy barrier, increasing the rate constant for radical anion formation. This parameter change enables the system to achieve higher current densities while maintaining stable operation

The proton transfer catalyst acts as a mediator that enables high oxidation rates without directly consuming the electroactive materials. The catalyst is regenerated in each catalytic cycle, maintaining a steady-state concentration that promotes rapid radical anion formation while preserving the overall composition stability of the electrolyte system

The catalyst system is designed to be self-regenerating through the catalytic cycle. As the catalyst facilitates proton transfer and is subsequently regenerated, it continuously maintains optimal conditions for radical anion formation without requiring external intervention, thereby sustaining both high oxidation rates and electrolyte composition stability over extended operation