Battery energy storage is critical to the use of clean energy such as wind and solar energy. Researchers at Harvard University have discovered an organic molecule that is expected to be used in long-lasting, high-quality flow batteries that are safer and cheaper than current batteries. .
The flow battery is an electrochemical energy storage device, which is safer and more economical than traditional lithium batteries in storing large-scale clean energy. Currently, vanadium flow batteries using vanadium salt solution for positive and negative electrodes are common, but the cost and maintenance of such batteries The cost is relatively high.
A study published in the journal Joule in the United States on the 23rd shows that a molecule called 'Masalah' can be charged and discharged tens of thousands of times in a few years. 'Masalah' is taken from The longevity patriarch in the Old Testament is a key element in the natural processes of photosynthesis and cellular respiration.
Harvard University's materials science and chemistry researchers collaborated to analyze the aging process in liquid batteries. On this basis, the ruthenium molecules were modified and modified to improve the life of the liquid battery.醌' Molecule.
Studies have shown that under laboratory conditions, the aging rate of 'Masalah's molecules is less than 0.01% per day, and the aging rate caused by each charge and discharge is less than 0. 0 0 1 %. The annual overall aging rate is not expected. Up to 3%, it is expected to be effective for tens of thousands of times of charge and discharge. In addition, 'Masalah's molecules are highly soluble and can store more energy in a small space. Because 'Masalah' molecules are in weak alkaline electrolytes In the role of the use of cheaper sealing materials and polymer membrane separation of the positive and negative, further reducing costs.
The author of the paper, Michael Aziz, a professor of materials and energy technology at Harvard University, said that the flow battery made with this newly discovered molecule has longer-term stability and has commercial capabilities. The first author of the paper, Harvard University doctoral researcher David Kaby said that this organic molecule is expected to replace expensive vanadium flow batteries.
