Experts believe that flow batteries, which store energy in two tanks of liquid, could eventually replace dirty energy sources. However, the cost-effective membrane needed for the battery to work effectively is still being developed. Researchers from Imperial College and the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics are working on a membrane made of sulfonated poly(ether ether ketone) (sPEEK) that uses less toxic formulas and has a long lifespan. This membrane has shown promising results in moving ions between liquids, which is crucial for the charge/discharge process. The team’s goal is to develop a membrane that can be affordably scaled for production. Flow batteries can be built in various sizes, including one that could power an electric vehicle, and some inventors are even repurposing old oil tanks to cut costs. The widespread adoption of flow batteries could play a significant role in the transition to renewable energy storage and cleaner electric vehicle use.
Results will unfold when financial barriers are breached
