Modelling of Effect of Non-Uniform Current Density on the Performance of Soluble Lead Redox Flow Batteries

Nandanwar, Mahendra N and Kumar, Sanjeev (2014) Modelling of Effect of Non-Uniform Current Density on the Performance of Soluble Lead Redox Flow Batteries. In: JOURNAL OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY, 161 (10). A1602-A1610.

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Abstract

Soluble lead acid redox flow battery (SLRFB) offers a number of advantages. These advantages can be harnessed after problems associated with buildup of active material on. electrodes (residue) are resolved. A mathematical model is developed to understand residue formation in SLRFB. The model incorporates fluid flow, ion transport, electrode reactions, and non-uniform current distribution on electrode surfaces. A number of limiting cases are studied to conclude that ion transport and electrode reaction on anode simultaneously control battery performance. The model fits the reported cell voltage vs. time profiles very well. During the discharge cycle, the model predicts complete dissolution of deposited material from trailing edge side of the electrodes. With time, the active surface area of electrodes decreases rapidly. The corresponding increase in current density leads to precipitous decrease in cell potential before all the deposited material is dissolved. The successive charge-discharge cycles add to the residue. The model correctly captures the marginal effect of flow rate on cell voltage profiles, and identifies flow rate and flow direction as new variables for controlling residue buildup. Simulations carried out with alternating flow direction and a SLRFB with cylindrical electrodes show improved performance with respect to energy efficiency and residue buildup. (C) 2014 The Electrochemical Society. All rights reserved.

Item Type:	Journal Article
Publication:	JOURNAL OF THE ELECTROCHEMICAL SOCIETY
Additional Information:	Copy right for this article belongs to the ELECTROCHEMICAL SOC INC, 65 SOUTH MAIN STREET, PENNINGTON, NJ 08534 USA
Department/Centre:	Division of Mechanical Sciences > Chemical Engineering
Date Deposited:	10 Oct 2014 09:14
Last Modified:	10 Oct 2014 09:14
URI:	http://eprints.iisc.ac.in/id/eprint/49993

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