Flow-Through Ni-Zn Batteries for Safe, Powerful, and High-Cycle-Life Energy Storage
Abstract
The project investigates the use of flowing electrolyte in a closed Ni-Zn battery cell to increase energy density, power density, and cycle life. The objectives are to determine the impact of KOH and ZnO electrolyte flow on the performance of flow-through Zn metal anodes and NiOxHy cathodes. The anode morphology, impedance, and cycle life will be modeled and experimentally tested under different flow rates and current densities. The cathode and electrolyte chemistry will be modeled, optimized for flow-through operation, and experimentally tested. The ability of electrolyte flow to enable thick electrodes will be theoretically and experimentally investigated. Large format, cylindrical Ni-Zn cells with integrated electrolyte pumping and thick electrodes will be designed, fabricated,and tested. If successful, the proposed research will develop new batteries for Naval applications that are inherently safe, low cost, easily manufactured using abundant materials, and similar in performanceto large capacity, cylindrical or prismatic, lithium-ioncells. Approved for Public Release.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jan 24, 2024
- Source ID
- N000142412078
Entities
People
- Christopher Rahn
Organizations
- Office of Naval Research
- Pennsylvania State University
- United States Navy