Fuel System Using Redox Flow Battery

摘要

An automotive or other power system including a flow cell, in which the stack that provides power is readily isolated from the storage vessels holding the cathode slurry and anode slurry (alternatively called “fuel”) is described. A method of use is also provided, in which the “fuel” tanks are removable and are separately charged in a charging station, and the charged fuel, plus tanks, are placed back in the vehicle or other power system, allowing fast refueling. The technology also provides a charging system in which discharged fuel is charged. The charged fuel can be placed into storage tanks at the power source or returned to the vehicle. In some embodiments, the charged fuel in the storage tanks can be used at a later date. The charged fuel can be transported or stored for use in a different place or time.

主权项

1. A method of operating a portable device comprising a power system housed within the device, comprising:
providing a plurality of flow cells, each flow cell comprising:
a positive electrode current collector,a negative electrode current collector,an ion-permeable membrane separating said positive and negative current collectors;wherein said positive electrode current collector and said ion-permeable membrane define a positive electroactive zone for accommodating a positive electroactive material;wherein said negative electrode current collector and said ion-permeable membrane define a negative electroactive zone for accommodating a negative electroactive material; wherein at least one of said positive and negative electroactive materials comprises a flowable redox composition in said electroactive zone; at least one dispensing vessel for dispensing a flowable redox composition into one of the positive or negative electroactive zone; wherein said dispensing vessel is connected with said plurality of flow cells and in fluidic communication with said electroactive zone and the dispensing vessel is capable of being connected and disconnected from said flow cell; and at least one receiving vessel for receiving flowable redox composition from one of the positive or negative electroactive zone, wherein said receiving vessel is connected with said flow cell and in fluidic communication with said electroactive zone and the receiving vessel is capable of being connected and disconnected from said flow cell; introducing said flowable redox composition from said dispensing vessel into at least one of the electroactive zones to cause the flow cell to discharge to provide electric energy to operate the device; and receiving the discharged redox composition in the receiving vessel.