Duration of the work package:
from Month 7 to Month 24
Work package leader:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Toma Stankulov
Participants in the implementation of the work package activities (when implemented in partnership):
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Plamen Nikolov, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Reneta Bukureștlieva, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Maria Matrakova, Senior Asst. Prof. Dr. Lyubomir Soserov, Senior Asst. Prof. Dr. Borislava Mladenova, Tech. Georgi Peev, Antonia Bakalova
Work package objective:
Demonstrate the advantages of the basic prototype of an electrolyte, with the addition of a proton conducting polymer, in a vanadium flow battery integrated into an energy storage system.
Within the framework of work package No. 2, it is planned to demonstrate at Technology Readiness Level 7 (TRL7) the effect of the improved electrolyte on the electrical characteristics of a 10 kW / 40 kWh vanadium flow battery energy system connected to the electrical grid. It is planned to determine the main operating parameters of the system that ensure optimal performance.
Activity 2.1. Installation and commissioning of a 10 kW / 40 kWh vanadium flow battery. The work in the activity will be related to the delivery of the components of the 10 kW / 40 kWh vanadium flow battery, other necessary elements – inverter, smart meter wires, etc. and preparation of the infrastructure. Installation of the battery system within the IEES (or Block 12) and its connection to the electrical system of the building. If possible, the system will be connected to photovoltaic panels for the purpose of storing renewable energy. Creation of safe and healthy operating conditions.
Activity 2.2. Determination of the optimal operating characteristics of a 10 kW / 40 kWh battery energy system.
The installed, 10 kW / 40 kWh battery energy system will be operated in several different operating modes and loads, tailored to the application. The vanadium battery will be discharged and charged with different powers for different times, different depths of discharge, as well as different degrees of charge. By analyzing the collected data, the optimal operating parameters and electrical characteristics of the battery system, as well as its efficiency, will be determined. Fundamental electrochemical techniques and analytical methods for quantitative, qualitative and structural analysis will be applied at specifically selected operating points, in order to extract information about degradation mechanisms and changes in the state of the electrolyte.
Activity 2.3. Demonstrating the effect of adding proton conducting materials to the electrolyte on the electrical characteristics of a vanadium flow battery for energy storage.
After completion of the activities under point 2.3, the electrolyte of the vanadium flow battery will be fully characterized with electrochemical techniques and analytical methods for quantitative, qualitative and structural analysis to determine its condition. Based on the results obtained, methods will be undertaken to balance it and bring it to a state close to the original. The already determined proton conducting polymers in their respective concentrations will be integrated into the electrolyte in the anode and cathode space of the battery. The battery energy system will be operated in a manner identical to that in point 2.3, in terms of power, charge and discharge times, depth of discharge and degree of charge. Based on a comparative analysis, the impact of the added polymer materials on the eclectic characteristics and efficiency of a 10 kW / 40 kWh vanadium flow battery operating in an energy storage application will be determined. At specifically selected operating points, fundamental electrochemical techniques and analytical methods for quantitative, qualitative and structural analysis will be applied, in order to extract information about degradation mechanisms and the action of polymer additives.