Can a continuous-flow photoelectrochemical storage cell improve photocurrent and photocharging depth?

Here we demonstrated an all-vanadium (all-V) continuous-flow photoelectrochemical storage cell (PESC) to achieve efficient and high-capacity storage of solar energy, through improving both photocurrent and photocharging depth.

Can all-vanadium redox photoelectrochemical cells store solar energy?

Wei, Z., Liu, D., Hsu, C. & Liu, F. All-vanadium redox photoelectrochemical cell: An approach to store solar energy. Electrochemistry Communications 45, 79–82 (2014). Liu, D. et al. Ultra-long electron lifetime induced efficient solar energy storage by an all-vanadium photoelectrochemical storage cell using methanesulfonic acid.

Are vanadium redox flow batteries the future?

Called a vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB), it's cheaper, safer and longer-lasting than lithium-ion cells. Here's why they may be a big part of the future — and why you may never see one. In the 1970s, during an era of energy price shocks, NASA began designing a new type of liquid battery.

Why do energy storage devices need to be able to store electricity?

And because there can be hours and even days with no wind, for example, some energy storage devices must be able to store a large amount of electricity for a long time.

Why is vanadium a problem?

However, as the grid becomes increasingly dominated by renewables, more and more flow batteries will be needed to provide long-duration storage. Demand for vanadium will grow, and that will be a problem. “Vanadium is found around the world but in dilute amounts, and extracting it is difficult,” says Rodby.

Why is vanadium better than lithium?

Instead of having to connect together millions of small self-contained cells, you simply get a bigger tank of electrolyte. Finally, vanadium is more abundant in the Earth's crust than lithium and therefore less vulnerable to supply bottlenecks.