Redox Flow Batteries: A Glance at Safety and Regulation Issues

Abstract

Redox flow batteries (RFB) are considered one of the most promising electrochemical energy storage technologies for stationary storage applications, especially for long duration energy storage services. RFBs are electrochemical energy converters that use flowing media as or with active materials, where the electrochemical reactions can be reversed. Knowledge of technical standards and other regulations lay the foundations for successful and safe commercialization of products through uniform instructions and generally applicable rules. A small number of papers on safety and regulatory issues of RFBs are reported in the literature, mainly for two reasons. First, because this technology is considered safe; and second, because most of the publications have been limited to short-term characterization studies of materials in chemistry. This paper aims to help fill this gap, providing researchers and students with introductory knowledge on the safety and regulatory aspects of RFBs, mainly from an electrical and hydraulic point of view. The reader is referred to specific regulations for deeper studies and analyses.

A Review on the Recent Advances in Battery Development and Energy Storage Technologies

“…Chemical interactions between redox constituents and cell components, such as the oxidation of electrode materials in the positive electrode half-cell by highly oxidizing substances are additional mechanisms that lead to self-discharge. Energy is also used by additional auxiliary devices required to monitor and regulate the RFB's proper operations [211]. Tis will also require the expenditure of electrical energy, most likely taken from the energy initially stored in the device, just like devices that monitor the state of a battery module or a battery pack.…”