Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries

After 35 years of research and development that began at UNSW Sydney in 1985, the All-Vanadium Redox Flow Battery is now being commercialized by a number of companies around the world in applications such as load levelling, peak shaving and renewable energy storage. It is unique amongst all flow battery chemistries in that it uses the same element in both half-cells, thereby eliminating problems of cross contamination and providing indefinite life for the electrolyte. This article presents a detailed overview of the VRFB technology, beginning with the original research and development at UNSW, through to the more recent improvements in cell materials and design that have enhanced power density and reduced costs. Early field testing and current commercialization activities are also described.