| Abstract |
Electrical energy storage is crucial to maintaining a stable power-grid with increasing dependence on nondispatchable sustainable energy sources. Two recently introduced promising techniques are the semi-solid flow cell and the electro-chemical flow capacitor. Both store energy in dense suspensions of micrometer-sized particles, which are pumped back and forth between microchannel (dis)charging cells and external reservoirs. We will use particle-based computer simulations to study the flow and (dis)charging behaviour of these complex fluids, including the influence of flow and state-of-charge on the suspension’s properties. Our objective is to develop a better understanding of the inter-related processes occurring in these complex liquids, in order to improve energy storage and retrieval efficiency. These liquids are simultaneously studied by our experimental colleagues in the Physics of Complex Fluids group. The intended close collaboration, in combination with our extensive experience in developing and applying simulation methods, create an ideal setting for this challenging project. |
