Associative metal-free ElectROlytes for Battery Energy STorage

Introduction

Battery energy storage systems (BESS) offer attractive alternatives to pumped hydroelectric and compressed air energy storage methods on account of their modularity, flexibility, and independence from geographical conditions.

Current Challenges

However, new BESS installations are primarily lithium-ion batteries alongside increasing market share for vanadium redox flow batteries, which both rely heavily on key metals with significant cost and safety implications as well as geopolitical concerns.

Project Overview

The EU-funded AERO BEST project will address this problem through the use of metal-free associative electrolytes for air-stable BESS and exploration of its commercialisation potential through feasibility studies and market research.

Technology Innovation

Our associative electrolytes serve as fully organic electrolytes in aqueous flow battery systems. They provide a paradigm shift through ‘self-protective’ supramolecular assembly, mitigating against detrimental interactions with oxygen while providing extended battery lifetime.

Validation and Commercialisation

The system will be scaled, allowing validation of the technology through a battery demonstrator. A sustainable business model will be developed for the commercialisation of the electrolytes.

Potential Impact

AERO BEST has the potential to revolutionise energy storage, realising a purely sustainable energy ecosystem independent from geopolitics. This project offers a substantial reduction in the cost of both electrolytes as well as in costs of battery manufacturing.

Benefits for the Market

As these electrolytes demonstrate air stability, they offer simplified battery system operation and maintenance, with an opportunity to democratise the BESS market, especially benefiting developing nations.