The increasing reliance on intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power necessitates the development of robust, scalable, and safe energy storage technologies. Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are promising candidates for grid-scale storage due to their long cycle life, decoupled energy and power capacity, and operational safety. This study reports the synthesis and characterization of a 1.5 M vanadium(V) electrolyte in 3 M sulfuric acid, optimized for VRFB application. The correct electrolyte preparation was confirmed visually and via pH analysis. A laboratory-scale VRFB was assembled using graphite felt electrodes and a Nafion 115 membrane to assess structural and electrochemical compatibility. The battery design enabled effective electrolyte circulation and demonstrated the suitability of the prepared electrolyte for redox reactions. These findings establish a foundational protocol for electrolyte formulation and battery assembly, supporting the advancement of small-scale VRFBs.
Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries: Sustainable Energy Storage Solutions for a Green Future
Anwar H.;Farina R.;Capuano G. E.;Plutino M. R.;Libertino S.;Matera F.Ultimo
2025
Abstract
The increasing reliance on intermittent renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power necessitates the development of robust, scalable, and safe energy storage technologies. Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are promising candidates for grid-scale storage due to their long cycle life, decoupled energy and power capacity, and operational safety. This study reports the synthesis and characterization of a 1.5 M vanadium(V) electrolyte in 3 M sulfuric acid, optimized for VRFB application. The correct electrolyte preparation was confirmed visually and via pH analysis. A laboratory-scale VRFB was assembled using graphite felt electrodes and a Nafion 115 membrane to assess structural and electrochemical compatibility. The battery design enabled effective electrolyte circulation and demonstrated the suitability of the prepared electrolyte for redox reactions. These findings establish a foundational protocol for electrolyte formulation and battery assembly, supporting the advancement of small-scale VRFBs.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
