Diseño de un prototipo de batería de flujo redox de vanadio

Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) are promising alternatives to mitigate the intermittency of renewable energy-based grids, although they require further studies and optimization. This work presents the theoretical design of a single-cell VRFB laboratory-scale prototype with an electrolyte recirculation system and a variable measurement system intended for use as an educational tool at the Universidad Metropolitana. The most critical design criteria were identified through documentary research, defining the characteristics the design needed to meet. The designed cell includes serpentine flow channels, copper and graphite current collectors, graphite felt electrodes, and an ion exchange membrane. The system incorporates two peristaltic pumps and sensors for current, voltage, conductivity, temperature, and electrolyte level, all connected to an Arduino UNO. The design allows for three configurations with different electrode sizes (6, 12, and 24 cm²) and electrolyte volume, concentration, and flow rate variations. It was concluded that VOSO4 is the optimal vanadium source due to its high solubility. The monitoring and control system, implemented with Arduino, enables accurate real-time measurements, facilitating data collection. The estimated cost of the prototype is 1 025 USD, and it is recommended that conductivity sensors be included due to their importance in assessing the state of charge (SoC). The theoretical results obtained through MATLAB simulation are consistent with expectations, supporting the feasibility and relevance of building this prototype at Universidad Metropolitana.