Invention Reference Number
This invention introduces a groundbreaking hydrocarbon-based membrane for sodium-sulfur (Na-S) flow batteries, addressing critical challenges in long-duration energy storage technologies. Unlike traditional per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-based membranes, it offers a sustainable, cost-effective, and high-performance solution, making it ideal for large-scale renewable energy integration into the grid.
Description
The hydrocarbon membrane is intended for use in sodium-sulfur flow battery systems, which utilize a sodium metal anode and a sulfur-based cathode. This membrane is designed to provide mechanical strength, electrochemical stability, and effective ion transport while reducing issues related to material degradation and polysulfide crossover. It offers a promising alternative to PFAS-based membranes, which pose environmental concerns and are incompatible with sodium metal. This development aims to support advancements in long-duration energy storage technologies by providing a stable and environmentally conscious solution for energy storage systems.
Benefits
- Cost efficiency: Reduces reliance on expensive materials like vanadium compounds, enabling scalable and affordable energy storage solutions.
- Environmental sustainability: Eliminates the use of PFAS "forever chemicals," which persist in ecosystems and pose environmental hazards.
- Enhanced stability: Demonstrates strong compatibility with sodium metal, addressing degradation issues that plague existing membrane technologies.
- Improved lifespan: Offers longer operational life by resisting mechanical swelling and maintaining structural integrity.
Applications and Industries
- Grid-scale energy storage: Supports renewable energy storage for wind and solar power, enabling greater grid stability and sustainability.
- Battery manufacturing: Central to developing next-generation sodium-sulfur or sodium ion batteries for stationary energy storage.
- Materials development: Attracts interest from material vendors seeking cutting-edge solutions for ion transport systems.
- Fuel cells and conversion systems: Offers potential for use in other technologies requiring advanced membranes for energy storage and conversion.
- Sustainable energy solutions: Contributes to global efforts to reduce reliance on critical and environmentally harmful materials.
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051
