Redox flow cell rebalancing

摘要

A redox cell rebalance system is provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance system includes electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, the photochemical cell contains a source of ultraviolet radiation for producing HCl from H2 and Cl2 generated by the system. The HCl product may be collected or circulated back through the system for the rebalancing of electrolytes. A rebalance cell for use in a rebalance system is also provided. In some embodiments, the rebalance cell is the combination of an electrochemical cell and a photochemical cell. In some embodiments, a source of ultraviolet radiation is housed in the cathode compartment of the rebalance cell. In some embodiments, the source of ultraviolet radiation is used to effect the formation of HCl from H2 and Cl2 present in the rebalance cell. The HCl is dissolved in aqueous electrolytes contained in the rebalance cell, which can subsequently be circulated through a rebalance system for the rebalancing of redox cells.

主权项

1. A rebalance system, comprising:
at least one electrochemical cell that receives a catholyte solution from a catholyte storage reservoir; at least one photochemical cell containing an anode compartment, a cathode compartment, and at least one source of ultraviolet radiation, the at least one photochemical cell coupled to receive a first gas from the at least one electrochemical cell and to receive a second gas from an anolyte storage reservoir; and a controller coupled to the at least one electrochemical cell and the at least one photochemical cell, the controller receiving data from sensors and operating the rebalance system according to the data from the sensors, wherein the at least one electrochemical cell and the at least one photochemical cell are in fluid communication with each other such that the at least one electrochemical cell receives an acid formed from the first gas and the second gas from the at least one photochemical cell; wherein the at least one source of ultraviolet radiation is disposed in the anode compartment.