Invention Reference Number
This technology introduces a ’Cation-Diffusive Layer’ as a protective interlayer for sodium-metal hybrid redox flow batteries, addressing challenges of poor kinetics and unstable deposition at the anode. The innovation improves current density, efficiency, and durability while reducing membrane degradation and safety risks. By enabling smoother operation and extending battery life, the approach supports scalable, cost-effective solutions for grid-level energy storage.
Description
Redox flow batteries based on sodium and sulfur offer a promising path toward affordable, large-scale energy storage, but their practical application has been hindered by slow ion transport, dendrite formation, and degradation at the sodium-metal anode. This invention introduces a thin, ion-affinitive protective layer that sits between the metal anode and the separator. The layer helps regulate ion movement, stabilizes metal deposition, and minimizes harmful reactions with the separator. Importantly, this approach allows higher operating currents without sacrificing energy efficiency or cycling stability. The design is compatible with standard flow battery hardware and does not require major changes to existing architectures. While optimized for sodium-sulfur systems, the principle is adaptable to other metal-anode chemistries, offering a broadly applicable pathway to improved performance, safety, and longevity in advanced energy storage.
Benefits
- Higher operating currents without loss of efficiency
- Extended battery life through reduced degradation
- Enhanced safety via suppression of dendrites
- Cost-effective and compatible with existing designs
Applications and Industries
- Grid-scale energy storage
- Microgrids and distributed energy systems
- Utility-scale backup power
- Broader applicability to lithium, potassium, zinc, and magnesium metal-anode systems
Contact
To learn more about this technology, email partnerships@ornl.gov or call 865-574-1051.
