Are zinc-bromine flow batteries a viable energy storage technology?

Zinc-bromine flow batteries (ZBFBs) are considered as one of the most promising energy storage technologies, owing to the high energy density and low cost. However, the sluggish electrochemical kinetics and severe self-discharge lead to the limited power density and service life, hindering the practical application of ZBFBs.

Why are zinc bromine flow batteries so popular?

Zinc bromine flow batteries have emerged as a key part of the picture, which is interesting because Exxon was among those exploring the technology back in the 1970s, only to drop the ball in favor of its core business. Exxon Knew

How much money did Columbia University get for a zinc bromine flow battery?

In 2021, a Columbia University research team received a $3.4 million award from the Energy Department’s ARPA-E office for a three-year dive into zinc bromine flow battery technology. The grant program is due to wrap up at the end of this year.

What is a full battery test with zinc–bromine flow battery (zbfb)?

Full battery test with zinc–bromine flow battery (ZBFB) PB@NC, acetylene black, and Nafion were mixed at a mass ratio of 8:1:1 in ethanol to make the slurry, which is sprayed on the pristine membrane, with a mass loading of the active materials about 1 mg cm −2.

What is a zinc based battery?

Instead, the primary ingredient is zinc, which ranks as the fourth most produced metal in the world. Zinc-based batteries aren’t a new invention—researchers at Exxon patented zinc-bromine flow batteries in the 1970s—but Eos has developed and altered the technology over the last decade.

Are zinc-based batteries a new invention?

Zinc-based batteries aren’t a new invention—researchers at Exxon patented zinc-bromine flow batteries in the 1970s—but Eos has developed and altered the technology over the last decade. Zinc-halide batteries have a few potential benefits over lithium-ion options, says Francis Richey, vice president of research and development at Eos.