Optimization of electrode characteristics for the Br2/H2 redox flow cell
Date Published |
01/2015
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Publication Type | Journal Article
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Authors | |
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DOI |
10.1007/s10800-014-0772-1
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Abstract |
The Br2/H2 redox flow cell shows promise as a high-power, low-cost energy storage device. The effect of various aspects of material selection, processing, and assembly of electrodes on the operation, performance, and efficiency of the system is determined. In particular, (+) electrode thickness, cell compression, hydrogen pressure, and (−) electrode architecture are investigated. Increasing hydrogen pressure and depositing the (−) catalyst layer on the membrane instead of on the carbon paper backing layers have a large positive impact on performance, enabling a limiting current density above 2 A cm−2 and a peak power density of 1.4 W cm−2. Maximum energy efficiency of 79% is achieved. In addition, the root cause of limiting-current behavior in this system is elucidated, where it is found that Br− reversibly adsorbs at the Pt (−) electrode for potentials exceeding a critical value, and the extent of Br− coverage is potential-dependent. This phenomenon limits maximum cell current density and must be addressed in system modeling and design. These findings are expected to lower system cost and enable higher efficiency. |
Journal |
Journal of Applied Electrochemistry
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Volume |
45
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Year of Publication |
2015
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Issue |
1
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Pagination |
11 - 19
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ISSN Number |
0021-891X
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Refereed Designation |
Refereed
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Organizations | |
Research Areas | |
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