Cyclic synthesis of lignin anthraquinone electrolytes for aqueous redox flow batteries

Lignin, which is rich in phenolic hydroxyl/methoxy groups as redox active groups, is a potential electrolyte material for aqueous redox flow batteries (ARFBs). This work demonstrated to the synthesis of lignin-derived electrolytes via cyclization with 1,4-dihydroxyanthraquinone (1,4-DHAQ), in the absence of hazardous or noble metal catalysts in mild conditions (0 °C, 1 atm). The structure of lignin anthraquinone derivatives (LAQDs) cyclized in basis alkaline solution was experimentally determined. An exhaustive comparative study was conducted with respect to the electrochemical properties, charging-discharging tests and cycling performances. The initially volumetric capacitance, the capacity retention rate and coulombic efficiency of two LAQDs were determined to be 148.0 mAh.L-1, 89.3 % and 99.0 % for coniferaldehyde-anthraquinone derivative [LAQD(G)], and 132.1 mAh.L-1, 81.2 % and 99.0 % for sinusaldehyde-anthraquinone derivative [LAQD(S)], respectively. The theoretical value calculated by DFT is consistent with the actual value. Such LAQDs can be used as organic electrolyte materials, which can overcome poor chemical stability of anthraquinone, while improving the electrochemical activity of lignin-based electrolyte materials. This technology provides a pathway to prepare organic electrolyte for the development of environment friendly and better energy storage performance electrolytes for ARFBs.