Liang Su

A subtractive approach to molecular engineering of dimethoxybenzene-based redox materials for non-aqueous flow batteries

The development of new high capacity redox active materials is key to realizing the potential of non-aqueous redox flow batteries (RFBs). In this paper, a series of substituted 1,4-dimethoxybenzene based redox active molecules have been developed via a subtractive design approach. Five molecules have been proposed and developed by removing or reducing the bulky substituent groups of DBBB (2,5-di-tert-butyl-1,4-bis(2-methoxyethoxy)benzene), a successful overcharge protection material for lithium-ion batteries. Of these derivatives, 2,3-dimethyl-1,4-dimethoxybenzene (23DDB) and 2,5-dimethyl-1,4-dimethoxybenzene (25DDB) are particularly promising as they demonstrate favorable electrochemical characteristics at gravimetric capacities (161 mA h g−1) that approach the stability limit of chemically reversible dimethoxybenzene based structures. Diffusivity, solubility, and galvanostatic cycling results indicate that both 23DDB and 25DDB molecules have promise for non-aqueous RFBs.

Recent Developments and Trends in Redox Flow Batteries

Stationary energy storage systems are needed to facilitate the widespread integration of intermittent renewable electricity generators, such as solar photovoltaic and wind turbines, and to improve the energy efficiency of the electrical grid. While no single technology can meet all needs, redox flow batteries (RFBs) have shown a favorable balance of cost, safety, and performance for many high-value applications. RFBs are rechargeable electrochemical devices that utilize the reversible redox reactions of two soluble electroactive species for energy storage. A compelling feature of the RFB configuration is the independent scaling of power and energy which enables cost-effective implementation of electrochemical couples with low energy density. Aqueous RFBs have been the subject of the vast majority of research efforts to date, which have yielded industry-level demonstrations. By comparison, non-aqueous RFBs are still in their infancy but have the potential for high energy density due to the extended stability window of non-aqueous electrolytes and the enriched selection of redox materials due to the broad variety of organic solvents. This chapter aims to introduce emerging, potentially transformative, strategies for enhancing RFB technologies through molecular design, electrolyte development, and cell-level engineering. Detailed discussions focus on recent developments in redox active materials (inorganic – aqueous, organic – aqueous, inorganic – non-aqueous, and organic – non-aqueous) and in system design (interdigitated flow fields, semi-solid flow cells, and hybrid flow cells). Future research directions and key challenges for RFB technologies are also highlighted.