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Title: Bipolar Redox‐Active Molecules in Non‐Aqueous Organic Redox Flow Batteries: Status and Challenges

Journal Article · · ChemElectroChem
ORCiD logo [1];  [2]; ORCiD logo [1]
  1. Department of Chemistry University of Utah 315 South 1400 East Salt Lake City UT 84112 USA, Joint Center for Energy Storage Research (JCESR) United States
  2. Department of Chemistry University of Utah 315 South 1400 East Salt Lake City UT 84112 USA

Abstract In this Review, recent advances in the development of organic bipolar redox‐active molecules (BRMs) for redox‐flow batteries (RFBs) are discussed, with special emphasis on their utilization in non‐aqueous systems. BRMs are single molecules that can be used as both anolyte and catholyte. Their unique redox chemistry enables identical components to be present in RFBs, which has distinct advantages in storage, mitigating crossover and compound degradation. Recent scientific innovations have uncovered three main strategies in preparing these bipolar species: developing stable radicals that are capable of both positive and negative redox reactions, covalently bridging electron donor‐acceptor motifs on one single molecule, and forming biredox eutectic mixtures through physically mixing active components. These approaches not only enabled symmetric flow battery design, but also resulted in electroactive materials with improved properties such as solubility, stability, and cell voltage. Nevertheless, much is still to be done. Importantly, developing BRMs that are competitive with vanadium RFBs in all performance indicators (e. g. solubility >1.0 M, voltage output >2.0 V, and cycling longevity >10 000 cycles) remains a challenge. Mechanistic studies including molecular dynamics, plausible degradation processes, and electrode/solution interface are necessary to peer into key parameters that dominate their battery performance. Accordingly, we review the current status and suggest future opportunities in these areas.

Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
OSTI ID:
1798007
Journal Information:
ChemElectroChem, Journal Name: ChemElectroChem Vol. 8 Journal Issue: 7; ISSN 2196-0216
Publisher:
Wiley Blackwell (John Wiley & Sons)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
Germany
Language:
English

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