Numerical simulation of mass transfer enhancement in liquid metal batteries by means of electro-vortex flow
Norbert Weber, Michael Nimtz, Paolo Personnettaz, Tom Weier, Donald R. Sadoway
Abstract
Mass transfer is of paramount importance for an efficient operation of liquid metal batteries. We show for the first time that electrodynamically driven flow can indeed improve mixing of liquid electrodes, and reduces concentration polarisation substantially. Simulating the discharge of a realistic Li||Bi cell at 1 A/cm2, the corresponding overpotential reduces by up to 62%. Moreover, the formation of intermetallic phases is delayed, which improves capacity usage. Finally, we demonstrate that vertical magnetic fields – which are originating from external sources – change the flow structure entirely, and will homogenise the positive electrode even better.
Topics & Concepts
OverpotentialMass transferFlow (mathematics)VortexElectrodeMixing (physics)MechanicsMaterials scienceIntermetallicLiquid metalMetalChemistryMetallurgyPhysicsElectrochemistryQuantum mechanicsAlloyPhysical chemistryMolten salt chemistry and electrochemical processesExtraction and Separation ProcessesThermodynamic and Structural Properties of Metals and Alloys