The potential for microfluidics in electrochemical energy systems. Issue 11 (23rd September 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Modestino, M. A.; Fernandez Rivas, D.; Hashemi, S. M. H.; Gardeniers, J. G. E.; Psaltis, D.
• Is Part Of: Energy & environmental science. Volume 9:Issue 11(2016)
• Page Start: 3381
• Page End: 3391
• Publication Date: 2016-09-23
• Subjects: Energy conversion -- Periodicals; Fuel switching -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Environmental chemistry -- Periodicals; 333.79
• DOI: 10.1039/c6ee01884j
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-5692

Abstract

Abstract : Energy storage technologies based on microfluidic electrochemical devices show optimal conversion efficiencies, and have potential to reach large-scale applications. Abstract : Flow based electrochemical energy conversion devices have the potential to become a prominent energy storage technology in a world driven by renewable energy sources. The optimal design of these devices depends strongly on the tradeoffs between the losses associated with multiple transport processes: convection and diffusion of reactants and products, migration of ionic species, and electrical charge transport. In this article we provide a balanced assessment of the compromise between these losses and demonstrate that for a broad range of electrochemical reactors, the use of microfluidics can enhance the energy conversion efficiency. Moreover, we propose proven scale-up strategies of microelectrochemical reactors which could pave the way to the large scale implementation of energy microfluidic systems.