From molecule to megawatt: the chemistry of redox flow batteries
Evening lecture by Prof. Dr. E. Otten, organized by the Groningse Chemische Kring.
Evening lecture by Prof. Dr. E. Otten, organized by the Groningse Chemische Kring.
From molecule to megawatt: the chemistry of redox flow batteries
Summary
The large-scale integration of renewable energy sources into our energy system requires energy storage technologies to compensate for the variability of solar and wind energy. Redox flow batteries offer an attractive alternative to conventional battery systems, as energy storage and power are decoupled and can be scaled up separately. This flexibility enables the storage of large amounts of energy to maintain grid stability.
In this lecture, I will discuss the operation of redox flow batteries and demonstrate how molecular properties (such as redox potential, solubility, and chemical stability) affect the system level. Using examples from our own research, combined with recent developments in the field, we will demonstrate how insights from fundamental chemistry are essential for bringing redox flow batteries from the laboratory to megawatt-scale applications. This will illustrate how molecular chemistry plays a key role in the development of robust energy storage for the energy transition.
Background of Prof. Dr. E(dwin) Otten
Edwin Otten is a professor at the University of Groningen. His research focuses on molecular systems for energy storage and conversion. After studying chemistry, he obtained his PhD in organometallic chemistry under Prof. Bart Hessen at the University of Groningen, researching catalysts for the trimerization of ethylene.
He then worked as an NWO Rubicon postdoc in the group of Prof. Doug Stephan at the University of Toronto, where he conducted research on Frustrated Lewis Pairs based on main group elements for the activation of molecules such as H2, CO2, and N2O. After a brief period in industry (SABIC), he returned to the University of Groningen.
His research group is working on new redox-active (organic) molecules for electrochemical applications, including batteries and catalysis. The goal is to find sustainable and affordable alternatives to the scarce metals currently commonly used. A key focus is understanding and preventing degradation reactions to improve the performance and lifespan of these systems.
Invitees are very welcome.
Please let us know in advance if you plan to attend.
Send an email to gck@kncv.nl or kommer.brunt@planet.nl.