Parasitic hydrogen bubble evolution in vanadium redox flow batteries: A lattice Boltzmann study
Duan K, Vu TH, Kadyk T, Xie Q, Harting J, Eikerling M (2026)
Publication Type: Journal article
Publication year: 2026
Journal
Book Volume: 348
Article Number: 120754
DOI: 10.1016/j.enconman.2025.120754
Abstract
Vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) are promising for large-scale energy storage due to their long cycle life and flexible scalability. Their performance, however, can be compromised during charging by side reactions, most notably the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) at the negative electrode, which generates gas bubbles that block electrolyte pathways and reduce electrochemically active area. Here, we present the first three-dimensional simulations of HER-driven bubble dynamics in μ-CT–derived carbon felt electrodes using a color-gradient lattice Boltzmann method, which enables stable interface tracking and reduced spurious currents. Simulations show that higher HER rates intensify bubble growth and cause premature detachment, insufficient flow rates lead to persistent accumulation, and increased electrode compression hinders bubble removal despite improving conductivity. These findings highlight the need to balance gas suppression, flow conditions, and electrode design to effectively manage bubble formation and transport. The mechanistic insights gained here not only advance the understanding of HER-driven multiphase transport in VRFBs but also provide general guidance for optimizing porous electrode systems that rely on carbon felts.
Involved external institutions
Germany (DE)How to cite
APA:
Duan, K., Vu, T.H., Kadyk, T., Xie, Q., Harting, J., & Eikerling, M. (2026). Parasitic hydrogen bubble evolution in vanadium redox flow batteries: A lattice Boltzmann study. Energy Conversion and Management, 348. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.enconman.2025.120754
MLA:
Duan, K., et al. "Parasitic hydrogen bubble evolution in vanadium redox flow batteries: A lattice Boltzmann study." Energy Conversion and Management 348 (2026).
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