Research on Performance Optimization of Novel Sector-Shape All-Vanadium Flow Battery

Abstract

The all-vanadium flow batteries have gained widespread use in the field of energy storage due to their long lifespan, high efficiency, and safety features. However, in order to further advance their application, it is crucial to uncover the internal energy and mass transfer mechanisms. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the performance optimization of all-vanadium flow batteries through numerical simulations. A mathematical and physical model, which couples electrochemical reactions and thermal mass transfer processes within a novel sector-shape all-vanadium flow battery, has been established. Subsequently, the impact of cell thickness and operating parameters on the distribution of various physical fields and performance parameters has been investigated. The results show that the potential and overpotential decrease as the electrode thickness increases, while the energy efficiency initially rises and then declines. As for operating parameters, higher electrolyte concentration demonstrates superior performance, while changes in electrolyte flow and current density have comprehensive effects on the battery. The cell performance can be adjusted based on the integrated mass transfer process and energy efficiency.